Photo by John Cameron

Lady's Thumb (Redleg)

Common name: Lady's Thumb (Redleg)

Scientific name: Polygonum persicaria

Dimensions:
    Flower: About 1/8" (4 mm) long
    Plant height: 6-24" (15-60 cm)

Blooming period: June-October

Habitat: Roadsides, cultivated areas, weedy places

Description: Dense oblong or cylindrical spike- like clusters of bright, tiny, pink (or white) flowers on reddish stems with a papery sheath at each joint; clusters 1/2 -2" (1.5-5 cm) long; flowers with 4-6 sepals, no petals. Plant is erect or sprawling. Leaves 3-6" (7.5-15 cm) long, narrowly oval with purple blotch in center of each leaf. Buckwheat family. (September 14)