BucKwbeat Jfamil^. 



Pol/ygonimi ampMbium. 



Found in swamps in September and October. 



The single stem, 3 or 4 inches high, bears a few leaves, and is large, 

 round, hollow, and Juicy ; a dull reddish-green color, that is dark near 

 the foot. 



The leaf (varying from 2 to 5 inches in length) is oblong with a 

 pointed tip and wedge- or heart-shaped base, an entire margin, and 

 prominent midrib ; it has a thin, leathery texture, and a very smooth 

 shining surface ; in color it is dark green, much toned with dull red, 

 the midrib lighter. The leaves, on short stout stems, clasp the stalk 

 with a dry, red-brown sheath enfolding the joint ; they are placed 

 alternately. 



The flowers are 5-parted, the tips of the divisions seldom spreading, 

 of a bright rose-pink, coarse hue. They are gathered in a close club, set 

 on a short, terminal, green stem. 



The lower of the three or four leaves float upon the surface of the 

 water or lie on the mud of this plant's miry home. 



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