I specialize in the identification Smartweeds (Persicaria) of North America. I'm drawn to them because they are underdogs of the plant world-- they have weed in their name, after all! They are also beautiful and enigmatic. They present many unanswered questions and few were willing to take up the challenges. Since 2010, I've discovered three new exotic species established in our flora.

Please keep those observations coming! For Persicaria it's helpful to get a shot of the whole plant and the habitat it's in; lower stems with ocreae and internodes; leaf surfaces and marginal hairs; and of course, a clear shot of the inflorescences and flowers. I enjoy looking at your photos of Persicaria and I look at every one, even when there are five or ten per observation.

I retired in 2021 after nearly three decades of plant collecting and research at the New York Botanical Garden.

I teach the course Pressing Plants for Art and Science.

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