WILD BUCKWHEAT, Polygonum convolvulus
L. 1, entire plant; 2, matureseed; 3, vine entwined
around stem of grass. Annual, reproducing by seed. Stems
smooth, slender, twining or creeping, branched at base. Leaves
alternate, heart-shaped, pointed with smooth edges. Flowers
small, greenish-white, borne in clusters in leaf axils. Seeds triangular,
somewhat shiny, black; often covered with a dull brown, rough hull. Found
in noncultivated areas and under most cropping systems. It is often mistaken
for field bindweed, but the annual habit, black,
shiny 3-cornered seeds, heart-shaped leaf, and minute flowers set it apart.
It is a serious weed and often reduces crop yields and quality; its seeds
are difficult to remove from crop seeds.