Rumex Hastatulus
Contents
Description
Rumex Hastatulus, commonly known as Heartwing Sorrel, is a perennial herbaceous plant in the family Polygonaceae. It is native to the southeastern United States and can be found in damp fields, meadows, and open woods. The plant has an erect stem that can grow up to 90 cm tall and produces heart-shaped leaves that are smooth on top and hairy underneath. The leaves can grow up to 15 cm long and 10 cm wide. The plant blooms from May to August, producing small greenish-white flowers in clusters on tall, branched stems. The fruit is a small, three-sided, and shiny black achene.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Polygonaceae |
| Genus | Rumex |
| Species | Hastatulus |
Appearance
The Heartwing Sorrel has a unique appearance that sets it apart from other plants. The leaves are the most distinctive feature of the plant, as they are shaped like a heart with a pointed tip. The leaves are deep green on top and hairy underneath. The stem is erect and can grow up to 90 cm tall. The plant produces small greenish-white flowers in clusters on tall, branched stems. The fruit is a small, three-sided, and shiny black achene.
Care Guide
Rumex Hastatulus is a low-maintenance plant that can thrive in a variety of conditions. Here are a few tips to help you care for this plant:
- Water: Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant in the spring and mid-summer with a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: The plant can grow in a variety of soils but prefers well-draining, moist soil.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun but can grow in partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: Rumex Hastatulus is hardy in USDA zones 5-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Like any other plant, Rumex Hastatulus is susceptible to pests and diseases. Here are some of the most common ones:
- Pests: Aphids, spider mites, and slugs can be problematic for this plant.
- Diseases: The plant can be affected by rust, powdery mildew, and leaf spot.
Habitat
Rumex Hastatulus is native to the southeastern United States and can be found in damp fields, meadows, and open woods. The plant prefers moist soil and can grow in full sun or partial shade. It is a hardy plant that can survive in USDA zones 5-9.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Rumex Hastatulus poisonous?
A: No, Rumex Hastatulus is not poisonous. However, it is not recommended for human consumption.
Q: Can I grow Rumex Hastatulus in a container?
A: Yes, Rumex Hastatulus can be grown in a container as long as it has sufficient space and drainage.
Q: How often should I water my Rumex Hastatulus plant?
A: Water your Rumex Hastatulus plant when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.
Q: Can I propagate Rumex Hastatulus by division?
A: Yes, Rumex Hastatulus can be propagated by division in the spring or fall.
Related Plants
- Rumex Acetosella
- Rumex Aquaticus
- Rumex Crispus
- Rumex Obtusifolius
References
- “Rumex hastatulus,” Missouri Botanical Garden, accessed June 4, 2021, https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=287024.
- “Rumex hastatulus,” USDA Plants Database, accessed June 4, 2021, https://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=RUHA.
- “Rumex hastatulus,” Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, accessed June 4, 2021, https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=RUHA.
