Rumex acetosella
(Sheep Sorrel)
Rumex acetosella, FR 679, Ophir Pass Rd., San Juan Co. 8349
Rumex acetosella, FR 679, Ophir Pass Rd., San Juan Co. 8335
Leaves, Rumex acetosella, FR 679, Ophir Pass Rd., San Juan Co. 8354
| Scientific Name | Rumex acetosella | USDA PLANTS Symbol | RUAC3 |
| Common Name | Sheep Sorrel | ITIS Taxonomic Serial No. | 20934 |
| Family | Polygonaceae (Buckwheat) | SEINet Reference |
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| Description |
Life zones and habitat: Foothills to alpine (5500 to 12000 ft); usually in acidic soils in meadows, roadsides and disturbed areas. Plant: Erect or ascending perennial with several stems from the base that are branched in the upper portions when flowering, 4 to 18 inches tall. Leaves: Mostly basal or on lower part of stems, alternate, ovate to ovate-lanceolate, hastate (at base) to entire 3/8 to 2-3/8 inches long; long-stalked; smooth surfaces. Inflorescence: Broad or narrow, lax panicle usually in upper 2/3 of stem with clusters of 5 to 8 flowers arranged in whorls; blossom is green or purple becoming reddish, less than 1/8-inch across; two series of 6 tepals that spread widely showing creamy yellow to red stamens or styles and closing up after pollination. Bloom Period: June to August. References: "Flora of Colorado" by Jennifer Ackerfield, Minnesota Wildflowers and SEINet. |
BONAP Distribution Map Map Color Key |
Colorado Status: Introduced |
© Tom Lebsack 2024
Banner photo: Castilleja rhexifolia and a brewing storm over the San Juan Mountains