This plant family contains close to 1200 species, including the edibles buckwheat, rhubarb, and sorrel. Other species are grown for their use as ornamental plants or even for lumber. Many types are perennials that prefer to grow in more temperate climates. The name is derived from Greek, meaning “many joints,” and refers to the nodes which form along stems. This plant family also contains some wildflowers as well as bothersome weeds.
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