Douglas’s knotweed (Polygonum douglasii, Bull. Calif. Acad. Sci. 1(2-4):125. 1885)

Family: Polygonaceae

Author: Greene

Bibliography: Bull. Calif. Acad. Sci. 1(2-4):125. 1885

Year: 1885

Status: accepted

Rank: species

Genus: Polygonum

Vegetable: False

Observations: Canada to NW. Mexico

Description

Douglas’s knotweed, scientifically known as Polygonum douglasii, is a fascinating plant species belonging to the Polygonaceae family. Described by the eminent botanist E.L. Greene in 1885, this species has carved a niche for itself across diverse terrains and climates.

This hardy and adaptable plant is widespread, with its natural habitat stretching from the expansive landscapes of Canada all the way to the northwestern reaches of Mexico. Such a broad geographical range signifies not only the plant’s resilience but also its capacity to thrive in varied environmental conditions.

Polygonum douglasii is well-regarded for its contribution to the ecosystem, providing important ground cover that helps in preventing soil erosion. Its presence in these regions also supports a variety of wildlife, offering food and habitat to numerous insects and small animals. The plant’s adaptability allows it to be a steadfast component of the flora in both wild and cultivated environments.

Botanical studies, including those published in the Bulletin of the California Academy of Sciences in 1885, have emphasized its distinctive features and its role within its family, Polygonaceae. These studies highlight the plant’s morphological characteristics and ecological benefits, underpinning its significance in the botanical world.

In summary, Douglas’s knotweed (Polygonum douglasii) is more than just a plant; it is a resilient species that plays a critical role in its habitat from Canada to northwest Mexico. Its study and preservation are essential for maintaining the ecological balance and understanding the complexities of the environments it inhabits.

Common Names

Eng: douglas’ knotweed, douglas’s knotweed
Fra: renouée de douglas, renouée de douglas sous-espèce de douglas, renouée de douglas variété de douglas
En: Douglas’s knotweed, Douglas’ knotweed, DOUGLAS KNOTWEED
Fr: Renouée de Douglas, Renouée de Douglas sous-espèce de Douglas, Renouée de douglas variété de douglas
Nv: Kétłʼáhí
Uk: Гірчак гірський

Synonyms

• Polygonum buxiforme f. montanum (Brenckle)
• Polygonum buxiforme var. montanum ((Brenckle) R.J.Davis)
• Polygonum pannosum (S.S.Sharp ex A.Nelson)
• Polygonum tenue var. commune (Engelm.)
• Polygonum commixtum (Greene)
• Polygonum howellii (Greene)
• Polygonum douglasii var. montanum (Small)
• Polygonum tenue var. latifolium (Engelm.)
• Polygonum douglasii var. latifolium ((Engelm.) Greene)
• Polygonum montanum ((Small) Greene)
• Polygonum vagans (Greene)

Distribution

• Alberta (native)
• Arizona (native)
• British Columbia (native)
• California (native)
• Colorado (native)
• Idaho (native)
• Iowa (native)
• Manitoba (native)
• Mexico Northwest (native)
• Michigan (native)
• Minnesota (native)
• Montana (native)
• Nebraska (native)
• Nevada (native)
• New Hampshire (native)
• New Mexico (native)
• New York (native)
• Ontario (native)
• Oregon (native)
• Québec (native)
• Saskatchewan (native)
• South Dakota (native)
• Utah (native)
• Vermont (native)
• Virginia (native)
• Washington (native)
• Wyoming (native)
• Yukon (native)
• Maryland (introduced)

Additional Images

Flower

Taken Sep 4, 2020 by Guillaume Gégo (cc-by-sa)

Taken Feb 1, 2010 by EOL − Keir Morse (cc-by-nc-sa)

Leaf

Taken Sep 4, 2020 by Guillaume Gégo (cc-by-sa)

Habit

Taken Feb 1, 2010 by EOL − Keir Morse (cc-by-nc-sa)

Bark

Taken Jan 1, 1900 by EOL − Niehaus, T.F. (cc-by-nc-sa)

© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

Sources

• WFO (No URL)
• IPNI (No URL)
• GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/5334465)
• POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:283508-2)
• PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Polygonum douglasii Greene)

Specifications

Growth habit>: Forb/herb

Growth