About
A tall, fast-growing spreading perennial dock which can reach a height of around 2m, with long, tapered green leaves widely found in damp, boggy places such as the edge of ponds, rivers and canals. Long spikes of pinkish-green flowers appear from July through to September. Leaves are edible with a lemony taste but should not be eaten in large quantity. They also have medicinal properties.
About the genus
Rumex can be annuals, biennials or perennials with mostly basal, simple leaves and erect panicles or racemes of small greenish or reddish flowers followed by reddish-brown, triangular fruits
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun, Partial shade
Soil typeChalk, Clay
Soil pHAlkaline, Neutral
Soil moisturePoorly-drained
AspectEast-facing, South-facing, West-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH4
Plant details
Plant typeAquatic, Bogs, Herbaceous Perennial
HabitClump forming
FoliageDeciduous
Height1.5-2.5 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height1 year
Suggested usesBedding displays, containers, gap filling.
ToxicityHarmful if eaten in large amounts. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling Pets: Harmful if eaten in large amounts - for further information and contact numbers regarding pets, see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants
Care notes
CultivationGrows best in moist soil or shallow water, avoiding acidic soils. Self-seeds freely and also spreads from the roots so can be difficult to control or eradicate. See the advice page on controlling sheep's sorrel for more details
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationPropagate by seed
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to slugs and aphids
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free