Sorrel

Rumex sp.

Description:

Erect plant. Green leaves that are lanceolate. Stems somewhat woody, green with red. Flower head reddish (not sure if this has gone to seed). Possibly Rumex acetosella.

Habitat:

Petersberg National Battlefield Park, Virginia. Field bordering temperate forest.

Species ID Suggestions

5 Comments

drP 10 years ago

I see what you mean. If you figure out how to sort the two out, please share. I'll do the same.

ForestDragon 10 years ago

Oops, (forgot this was in Virginia). Rumex hastatulus looks similar as well.

drP 10 years ago

Yeah, mowing can definitely alter a plant's growth form. If you can get a better look at the leaves, I believe that the arrow-shaped leaves of sheep sorrel are diagnostic. At least the lower leaves should have a very distinct arrow shape. Missouriplants.com has a very detailed description and good photos: http://www.missouriplants.com/Others/Rum...

ForestDragon 10 years ago

drP, it looks like you are on the right track. It looks very similar. Part of the problem with these is that they were growing in a field that has been mown a few times so I think they are growing shorter than they normally would.

drP 10 years ago

I can't be sure without a better look at the leaves, but I think it's sheep sorrel, Rumex acetosella. See https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rumex_acet.... Hope this helps.