Broadleaf Dock

Rumex obtusifolius

Weed Description
A taprooted perennial from a basal rosette, developing a single stem that may reach 3 1/3 feet in height. Broadleaf dock is found throughout the eastern United States, the Midwest, and Arizona.

Leaves
Lower leaves are petioled, may be reddish-veined, flat with a heart-shaped base and very broad, up to 6 inches wide and 12 inches long. Stem leaves have an ocrea and progressively become smaller up the flowering stalk. Leaves become more reddish-purple with age. All leaves are slightly wavy on edges.

Stems
A singe flowering stem that is erect, reddish- brown, and ribbed.

Flowers
Arranged in clusters of racemes on the upper portion of the elongating stem, consisting of greenish sepals that become reddish-brown with age.

Fruit
An achene, with 1-3 spines on the 3-winged triangular structure that surrounds the achene.

Roots
Large, fleshy tap-root, yellowish orange in color.

Office of Programs

University of Missouri

Broadleaf Dock

Rumex obtusifolius