A large-leaved perennial herb to 1m and up to 1m across, often cultivated in home vegetable gardens. The stems are edible once cooked, often sweetened to make them more palatable.
Flowers
Small flowers are green to white clustered on erect stems.
Leaves
The large, dull green leaves are three-veined from the base with wavy, undulating margins.
Fruit/Berries
The oval to heart-shaped fruit is a nut, 3-7mm in diameter.
Other
Symptoms
Oxalates are in all parts of the plant but are especially concentrated in the leaves. If the leaves or uncooked stems are eaten, symptoms can include a burning sensation in the mouth, nausea, abdominal pain, vomiting, weakness and drowsiness. Blood clotting may be impaired. Contact dermatitis may occur.
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