Rumex pulcher L. - Fiddle Dock
Family - Polygonaceae
Stems:
Leaves:
Ocrea.
Inflorescence:
One node of the inflorescence.
Flowers:
Fruits.
Flowering - April - June.
Habitat - Disturbed sites, roadsides.
Origin - Native to Europe.
Other information - This introduced species can be found scattered throughout Alabama and is robably much more common than is reported. The plant can be identified by its densely pubescent (at least basally) stems, its pubescent leaves, its widely spreading inflorescence branches, and its pectinate fruits. The fruits of the plant are quite attractive close-up.
The genus name Rumex derives from the Latin "rum(ex)" and is the classic Latin name for Sorrel.
The species epithet pulcher derives from the Latin "pulch(er)" meaning "beautiful" and must refer to the fruits, as the plant itself is not very attractive.
Alabama Distribution:
Photographs taken off Lee Rd 51, Auburn, AL., 4-30-06, and off Hwy 26, Seale, AL., 6-4-06.