An urban wasteland weed, growing up to 9 feet in height. It is an invasive plant introduced as an ornamental, but now considered an annoyance to be removed. It spreads by rhizomes and is found in clumps.

TWIGS: Grooved, hollow except at the nodes, arching out at the top.

FRUIT: Three-angled, with three wings.

HABITAT: Grows almost everywhere, moist and dry sites, urban, non-urban sites--vacant lots, roadsides, yards, along stream banks.

USES: Good to eat in early spring when green and red spotted shoots are young. When cooked with sugar, taste like rhubarb.