Family: Polygonaceae
Author: Weinm.
Bibliography: Flora 4: 28 (1821)
Year: 1821
Status: accepted
Rank: species
Genus: Rumex
Vegetable: False
Observations: California to Nevada and N. Mexico
Description
Willow dock, scientifically known as Rumex salicifolius, is a noteworthy member of the Polygonaceae family. This perennial herb has a significant presence across various regions, notably thriving in locales from California through Nevada and extending to New Mexico. The first detailed classification of this species was documented in the year 1821 in the flora text Flora 4: 28, authored by Weinm.
Rumex salicifolius is distinguished by its elongated, narrow leaves, which bear a resemblance to those of the willow tree, hence the common name “willow dock.” The plant’s foliage is characterized by a lanceolate to linear shape, often exhibiting a subtly wavy or crisped margin. This specific leaf morphology aids in distinguishing it from other dock species within the same genus.
The plant typically flourishes in moist, open habitats such as meadows, riverbanks, and disturbed areas, reflecting its adaptability across different ecological conditions. Moreover, willow dock’s distribution from the coastal regions of California to the more arid landscapes of Nevada and New Mexico showcases its remarkable resilience and ecological versatility.
Flowering mainly occurs in the spring and summer months, where the plant produces clusters of inconspicuous greenish flowers. These flowers are organized in a whorled, branched inflorescence that rises from a central stem, which can grow to considerable heights. The seeds of Rumex salicifolius are small, brown, and enclosed in papery, winged structures, facilitating dispersion by wind and water.
The occurrence and identification of willow dock have been extensively studied and recognized, contributing to a broader appreciation of its role within the local ecosystems it inhabits. Beyond its botanical interest, this species holds potential uses in herbal medicine and as a forage plant, though such applications require further exploration to be well understood.
In conclusion, Rumex salicifolius or willow dock is a distinctive, adaptable herb that has captured the attention of botanists and nature enthusiasts alike. Its presence across a wide geographical range in the United States highlights its ecological importance and versatility within its native habitats.
Common Names
Lit: tribriaunė rūgštynė
Deu: weidenblatt-ampfer, weidenblättriger ampfer
Eng: willow dock, willow-leaved dock, willow-leaf dock
Lav: vītollapu sk
Ces: šťovík trojmozolný
En: Willow dock, Willow-leaf dock, Willow-leaved Dock
Cs: Šťovík trojmozolný
Nl: Wilgzuring
De: Weidenblatt-Ampfer, Weidenblättriger Ampfer
Lv: Vītollapu sk
Lt: Tribriaunė rūgštynė
Nv: Chʼil bikétłʼóól łitsooígíí
Cy: Tafolen dail helyg
Synonyms
- Rumex salicifolius var. nudivalvis (Danser)
- Rumex salicifolius f. escallosus (J.T.Howell)
- Rumex salicifolius var. trigranis (Danser)
- Rumex verticillatus (Richardson)
Distribution
- Arizona (native)
- California (native)
- Mexico Northeast (native)
- Mexico Northwest (native)
- Nevada (native)
Additional Images
Leaf
Taken Aug 29, 2018 by Jesus Toledano (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jun 17, 2022 by Bentley Reynolds (cc-by-sa)
Taken May 12, 2020 by Adrian dem (cc-by-sa)
Taken May 16, 2019 by Kenneth Robertson (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jul 18, 2021 by Rochelle Fjeldstrom (cc-by-sa)
Flower
Taken Aug 10, 2021 by Barb T (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jun 28, 2021 by guasch vicente (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jan 1, 1900 by EOL − Zylstra, J. (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Jul 4, 2020 by Mykala Spangler (cc-by-sa)
Taken Sep 9, 2021 by Roxanne Cariadi-Kimbler (cc-by-sa)
Habit
Taken Feb 25, 2008 by EOL − Keir Morse (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Jan 1, 1900 by EOL − Zylstra, J. (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Jan 1, 1900 by EOL − This image is not copyrighted and may be freely used for any purpose. Please credit the artist, original publication if applicable, and the USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database. The following format is suggested and will be appreciated: Sheri Hagwood @ USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database If you cite PLA (public)
Taken Aug 29, 2009 by EOL − Zoya Akulova (cc-by-nc)
Taken Feb 24, 1999 by EOL − Beatrice F. Howitt (cc-by-nc-sa)
Bark
Taken Aug 29, 2009 by EOL − Zoya Akulova (cc-by-nc)
Fruit
Taken Aug 29, 2009 by EOL − Zoya Akulova (cc-by-nc)
Taken Jun 10, 2013 by EOL − BJ Stacey (cc-by-nc)
Taken Dec 1, 1998 by EOL − Charles Webber (cc-by-nc-sa)
Sources
- WFO (No URL)
- IPNI (No URL)
- GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/2888990)
- POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:30024727-2)
- PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Rumex salicifolius Weinm.)
Specifications
Growth habit>: Forb/herb