Rumex skottsbergii
| Rumex skottsbergii | |
|---|---|
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Scientific classification 
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| Kingdom: | Plantae |
| Clade: | Tracheophytes |
| Clade: | Angiosperms |
| Clade: | Eudicots |
| Order: | Caryophyllales |
| Family: | Polygonaceae |
| Genus: | Rumex |
| Species: | R. skottsbergii
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| Binomial name | |
| Rumex skottsbergii | |
Rumex skottsbergii, or more commonly known as lava dock,[1] is a shrub of the genus Rumex. The genus comprises approximately 200 species all derived from a single species and are therefore monophyletic.[2] Furthermore, Rumex skottsbergii is endemic to Hawaii, where it is known as pāwale. Pāwale are commonly found in open lava fields that are at low elevations which range from 460-1300m.[3][4] A similar plant in this genus is Rumex giganteus. Their similarity lies between their erect nature and leaves. However, the difference lies in their inflorescences.[2] The inflorescences is described as being a cluster of flowers from the main stem axis .[5]
Description
[edit]Rumex skottsbergii can be identified through their green, narrow, compact inflorescences, erect nature and small leaves. Their stems are usually stiffly erect with 7-10dm long and glabrous.[2] Rumex skottsbergii can also be identified through their unisexual flowers and medium-sized yellowish greenish branched inflorescences; their outer tepals are also a distinguishable trait found within this genus.[2]
Distribution
[edit]Rumex skottsbergii are found in Hawaii and are species that flourish in low elevation and open lava fields.[2]
Uses
[edit]Rumex skottsbergii was used for medicinal purposes and was used to treat a childhood's diseases known as pāʻaoʻao and constipation. The childhood disease would cause physical weakening.[6]
References
[edit]- ^ NRCS. "Rumex skottsbergii". PLANTS Database. United States Department of Agriculture (USDA). Retrieved 26 October 2015.
- ^ a b c d e Fosberg, F. Raymond (1991). "Manual of the Flowering Plants of Hawaii, by Warren L. Wagner, D.R. Herbst & S.H. Sohmer. (Bishop Museum Special Publication 83.) University of Hawaii Press and Bishop Museum Press, Honolulu, Hawaii, USA: 2 vols, 1,853 pp., 240 plates, 24 × 15 × 15 cm, [no price indicated], 1990". Environmental Conservation. 18 (2): 191. doi:10.1017/s0376892900022001. ISSN 0376-8929.
- ^ Wagner, W. L., Sohmer, S. H., & Herbst, D. R. (1999). Manual of the flowering plants of Hawai'i. Honolulu: Univ. of Hawaii Press.
- ^ "Comprehensive Report Species - Rumex skottsbergii". explorer.natureserve.org. Retrieved 2019-10-03.
- ^ "Inflorescence Terminology (Part 1)". www2.palomar.edu. Retrieved 2019-11-16.
- ^ "Native Plants Hawaii - Viewing Plant : Rumex skottsbergii". nativeplants.hawaii.edu. Retrieved 2019-10-05.