Etymology: Polygonum: derived from the Greek words polys, "many," and gonu, "knee or joint," hence "many joints" because of the thickened joints on the stem
Plants: erect or sprawling, annual, 12"-40" tall forb; stems with several branches
Leaves: alternate, narrow, flat, leaves on branches much smaller than those on the stem, jointed at the base
Flowers: greenish, 5-parted, 1/8" long, with a deep cleft, petals and petal-like sepals joined at the base with the outer 3 longer than the inner 2; inflorescence with 1-3 flowers in erect clusters from the upper nodes
Fruits: blackish, smooth, shiny, dry, oval, 3-angled seed
Habitat: moist; shores
Conservation Status: Native

Flora of North America: Flora of North America Floristic Rating: Coefficient of Conservatism = 6, Wetland Indicator = FAC- USDA Plants Database: Federal Distribution and detailed information including photos