Connecticut Plants
Halberd-leaved Tearthumb
Persicaria arifolia
The tearthumbs get their name from the hooked prickles on the underside of the leaves. These prickles are strong enough to tear into flesh.
- Synonyms: Polygonum arifolium
- Family: buckwheat (Polygonaceae)
- Habitat: marshes, wet thickets
- Height: 2-4 feet
- Flower size: 1/8 inch across
- Flower color: pink or white
- Flowering time: July to October
- Origin: native
