Redshank

This common weed is most easily recognized by the dark patch in the centre of the leaves, although this is not always present. The leaves of Redshank are otherwise rather plain, spear-shaped, untoothed, and almost stalkless. The often reddish stems bear numerous small spikes of tiny pink flowers in the leaf axils, each flower seeming to remain tightly closed.

LEAVES : Alternate, spear-shaped.

PLANT HEIGHT : 30–80cm.

FLOWER SIZE : Flowerhead 2–4cm long.

FRUIT : Shiny black nut, 2–3mm wide.

FLOWERING TIME : June–October.

SIMILAR SPECIES Bistort : Pale Persicaria , which has unblotched leaves.