Ladysthumb

[Polygonum persicaria L.]

Polygonaceae (Smartweed Family)

▲▼young plants showing "thumb-print" markings

▲mature plant

▲ ochrea showing fringed upper edge

▲▼ flowers

Lady's Thumb: (mentioned on p. 489, Weeds of the Great Plains; mentioned on pp.280-281, Weeds of the Northeast)

*    larger smartweed, 2-4' tall, stems usually red

*    summer annual

*    leaves larger, have a purplish triangular mark in center (lady's thumb print)

*    has hairs on sides and top of ochrea, which distinguishes it from pale smartweed which does not have hairs/fringe

*    seen in agronomic as well as wetland habitats