I think it was Jane who asked for the scientific name of "japanese bamboo in the buckwheat family" ? I suspect it is Japanese Knotweed, A.K.A "Fleece flower", (Polygonum cuspidatum). The young shoots can be peeled and used as rubarb. Best control is obtained with Banvel. Its one of the best late nectar-producers in our area, but very invasive. Cheers, Dave Pehling =========================================== | W.S.U./SNOHOMISH CO. COOPERATIVE EXTENSION | | 600 128TH ST. S.E. | | EVERETT, WA. 98208 U.S.A. | |PHONE - (206)338-2400 | |FAX - (206)338-3994 | |INTERNET [log in to unmask] | ============================================