Roots fibrous or fleshy. Leaves: petiole 1/2–2/3 or equaling blade length; blade dark red to green, usually with pronounced midrib, somewhat fleshy. Inflorescences cymes, 1–8-flowered, interrupted towards base. Perianth urn-shaped; segments 3–5 × 2–3 mm; receptacle pelviform. Achenes 5–11 per cluster, 3–5 mm. Seeds 1.5–2 mm.

Distribution

• Generated Map
• Legacy Map

Ala., Calif., Conn., Maine, Mass., N.C., N.H., N.J., N.Y., Pa., R.I., S.C., Va., Vt., W.Va., s Europe.

Discussion

Subspecies ca. 3 (2 in the flora).

Selected References

None.

Lower Taxa

Beta vulgaris subsp. maritima, Beta vulgaris subsp. vulgaris

Key

1	Basal leaves usually longer than 10 cm; stems erect; cymes 2-8-flowered; roots swollen, fleshy	Beta vulgaris subsp. vulgaris
1	Basal leaves shorter than 10 cm; stems procumbent to erect; cymes 1-3-flowered; roots fibrous to ± swollen, not fleshy	Beta vulgaris subsp. maritima