Lake Maxinkuckee, Physical and Biological Survey 293 

 286. BROAD-LEAVED OR BITTER DOCK 



RUMEX OBTUSIFOLIUS L. 



Growing in about the same soil and conditions as R. crispus, 

 but not generally so abundant. Found on the beach between the 

 depot grounds and Kreutzberger's pier and on the Palmer House 

 grounds. Leaves well up and large April 9, 1901 ; during mild 

 winters they remain green all winter. In flower June 12. The 

 seeds frequently germinate in late autumn ; some young seedlings 

 were seen October 20, 1907. 



287. KNOT-GRASS; DOOR-WEED 



POLYGONUM AVICULARE L. 



Not common ; a few plants seen. It prefers a heavier soil than 

 that found about the lake, and in many parts of the state is one of 

 the most common plants about dooryards forming a dense sod. The 

 more it is trampled upon the more it seems to thrive, and it grows 

 where nearly everything else has been trampled out. This and P. 

 erectum grow together and both species are at times eaten by cattle 

 with apparent relish. 



288. ERECT KNOTWEED 



POLYGONUM ERECTUM L. 



In general appearance and habits much like P. aviculare but 

 much larger. Not very abundant ; found at Long Point and on the 

 east side of the lake. Like P. aviculare it grows in well trodden 

 dooryards, but, unlike it, it is often found on plowed ground. It 

 is quite susceptible to mildews in damp seasons; in such cases a 

 thick patch some distance away has a peculiar appearance much 

 resembling a dense patch of white blossoms. Found in flower east 

 of the lake June 5, 1901, and at Long Point June 17. It continues 

 in blossom until late in autumn. 



289. SLENDER KNOTWEED 



POLYGONUM TENUE Michx. 



Not very abundant, and local in its distribution. Obtained Sep- 

 tember 29, 1900, by Lakeview Hotel, in dry sand. An example 

 of pronounced xerophytic habit; the leaves much reduced so that 

 it considerably resembles Bartonia of the Gentianacea?, which is 

 found in similar situations. 



