Abstract
Leaf and seed samples of prince feather (Polygonum orientale L.), growing on the polluted soils, were analyzed by atomic absorption spectrophotometry and instrumental neutron activation. The leaf samples contained varying amounts of heavy metals, especially manganese and zinc. A remarkable relationship was noticed between manganese and nickel contents. The seed samples were poor in heavy metals. Those collected from highly polluted area were slightly enriched in manganese and occasionally in zinc. As geochemical indicator of heavy metals in soils, the leaves are more promising than the seeds.
