Broad-leaved Dock

Rumex obtusifolius

HEIGHT to 1m Familiar upright perennial of field margins and disturbed meadows. FLOWERS In loose spikes that are leafy at the base (June–Aug). FRUITS With prominent teeth and 1 tubercle. LEAVES Broadly oval, heart-shaped at the base; up to 25cm long. STATUS Widespread and extremely common throughout.

Ribwort Plantain

Plantago lanceolata

HEIGHT to 15cm Persistent perennial that grows on disturbed grassland, cultivated ground and tracks. FLOWERS 4mm across, with a brownish corolla and white stamens; in compact heads, 2cm long, on furrowed stalks up to 40cm long (Apr–Oct). FRUITS Capsules. LEAVES Lanceolate, up to 20cm long with 3–5 distinct veins; in spreading basal rosettes. STATUS Widespread and common throughout.

Japanese Knotweed

Fallopia japonica

HEIGHT to 2m Fast-growing, invasive perennial, quick to colonise roadsides and other wayside places; hard to eradicate. FLOWERS Whitish, in loose, pendulous spikes arising from leaf bases (Aug–Oct). FRUITS Papery. LEAVES Large, triangular, on red, zigzag stems. STATUS Alien, but now a widespread garden escape.