Bitter Dock
Rumex obtusifolius
Synonyms: Acetosa oblongifolia, Rumex crispatulus, Rumex obtusifolius ssp. agrestis, Rumex obtusifolius ssp. sylvestris, Rumex obtusifolius var. sylvestris, Rumex rugelii
The photo above shows a good close-up of the
strongly toothed tepals of of bitter dock, which along with the size of the
plant (up to a meter in height), large, wide leaf blades (See below.), and perennial
habit with strong taproot identify this species. All photographs taken along
Road #23 at the Mt. Adams Viewpoint, about one-half mile south of the intersection
with Road #8810.
The photo above shows the leafy bracteate panicle
which makes up the inflorescence of bitter dock.
- 
The upper (left) and lower (right) leaf surfaces of the leaf blade of bitter
dock.
Paul Slichter