Question: Hello. Would you please help me identify a plant I saw yesterday (May 2nd) in a moist field in Western …
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Question
Hello. Would you please help me identify a plant I saw yesterday (May 2nd) in a moist field in Western MA? I tried using the Go Botany Simple Key, but only got to step 2. I unfortunately didn't look closely at the center leaves of the plant yesterday and can't tell from my photo whether the leaves are going to grow to be alternate or opposite. I tried just guessing and searching photos on the site, but I can't find a good match. Is there a way to id the plant with just this photo? Thanks!
Answer
AbbyG3, your plant looks like the basal leaves of Valeriana officinalis (common valerian). You can confirm this hypothesis by smelling the plant (especially the roots), which will have a pungent and rank smell. This is a non-native plant that originates in Europe. Best wishes.
