Pennsylvania Smartweed

Common: Pennsylvania Smartweed

Scientific: Polygonum pensylanicum

Affected Crops: Corn, pasture, soybeans.

Identification: The plant has a well-developed taproot with an erect stem that can measure up to 3 feet in height. Leaves are long and taper to a point. An identifying feature are the swollen nodes.

Geographical Distribution: Found primarily in the eastern half of the United States, more specifically in low, moist sites such as road ditches, but can be a problem in cultivated fields.