Roots
Fibrous

Stem
Erect or horizontally spreading
Seedlings have flat stem with purplish base
Hollow with swollen nodes, may be branched

True Leaves
Usually hairless, no auricle or ligule
Broad, slightly rough
Leaves rolled in the bud

Flowers
Branched panicles
Flowering from July to September

Habitat
Cultivated fields, barnyards, waste areas

Note
Common where moisture is adequate
Seeds may attract some birds