By a woodland path in Italy

Discussion in 'Plants: Identification' started by Fidel, Feb 6, 2018.

  1. Fidel

    Fidel Active Member

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    This tall (over 1 m) plant was by a (damp) woodland footpath by Lago Albano in central Italy. It was mostly over (dying back) in November, but a few flowers were still to be seen. I'd be very grateful for any guidance.
     

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  2. teague

    teague Active Member 10 Years

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    Maybe Phytolacca?
     
  3. Fidel

    Fidel Active Member

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    Thanks Teague, I think that you might be right. I was deterred by the description in my book that the flowers should be greenish-white. But when you Google the image P. americana comes straight up. Thanks again.
     
  4. Michael F

    Michael F Paragon of Plants Forums Moderator 10 Years

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    Could be Phytolacca americana from N America, or could be P. acinosa from E Asia; both are naturalised in Europe. Needs mature fruit to tell them apart (smooth in P. americana, ribbed in P. acinosa).
     
  5. Fidel

    Fidel Active Member

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    Thanks Michael. I have been more inclined to P. acinos after digging around some more. A question, my book has P. acinos and you mention P. acinosa. Are they equivalent - is there a correct version?
     
  6. Michael F

    Michael F Paragon of Plants Forums Moderator 10 Years

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  7. Fidel

    Fidel Active Member

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    Thanks for the clarification!
     

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