Ferns-template

Nodding or Common Smartweed
or Water-pepper

Polygonum hydropiper

Buckwheat Family - Polygonaceae

The somewhat zig-zag, reddish-tinged stem is slightly swollen at each leaf axil (joint-like) where the stem is sheathed. Cylindrical sheathes without bristles. Greenish-white flowers slightly separated along nodding terminal clusters. Leaves alternate, lance-shaped and entire.

(Photographed - late August)

Usually growing in a considerably sized group in damp areas or along shores.