Polygonoides

Polygonoides is a genus of flowering plants in the family Polygonaceae. The genus was first described in 1996. Plants in this genus are herbaceous perennials that grow from rhizomes. They are native to South America, with most species found in the Andes mountains. The leaves are typically arranged in a basal rosette and are simple, with entire margins. The flowers are small and are borne in racemes or panicles. They are usually white or pale pink. The fruit is a small achene.

There are currently three recognized species in the genus Polygonoides: Polygonoides fragrans, Polygonoides mirabilis, and Polygonoides poppigii. Polygonoides fragrans is found in Peru and Bolivia, and is characterized by its fragrant flowers. Polygonoides mirabilis is also found in Peru and is distinguished by its unusually large leaves. Polygonoides poppigii is native to Ecuador and is notable for its creeping habit.

The taxonomic placement of Polygonoides has been subject to some debate. It was initially placed in the genus Rumex, but molecular phylogenetic studies have supported its recognition as a distinct genus. Further research may lead to revisions in its classification. The conservation status of Polygonoides species is not well-documented, but their restricted geographic ranges suggest they may be vulnerable to habitat loss and climate change.