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 9 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 9 years ago

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

drP 9 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 9 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 9 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.