Overview
Rumex sanguineus is a columnar upright herbaceous perennial in the genus Rumex, part of the Polygonaceae family, with deciduous foliage. It typically grows around 0.5-1 metres tall and 0.1-0.5 metres wide, reaching full size in around 2-5 years. Rumex sanguineus grows best in full sun, and tolerates most soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H6. Suggested uses include cottage and informal garden. It is native to Europe N Africa SW Asia.
About
Rumex sanguineus is a perennial plant characterized by a deep taproot and a rosette of oblong leaves that range in color from mid- to dark green, featuring distinct dark red veins. During early summer, it develops upright, branched stems that bear small, star-shaped flowers that initially appear green before turning red. These flowers are succeeded by dark brown fruits.
About the genus
Rumex species can exist as annuals, biennials, or perennials, characterized by primarily basal, simple leaves. They produce upright panicles or racemes that bear small flowers, which can appear greenish or reddish. These blooms give way to reddish-brown, triangular fruits.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Rumex
- Sunlight
- Full sun
- Soil type
- Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
- Soil pH
- Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Well-drained
- Aspect
- South-facing, West-facing
- Exposure
- Exposed, Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H6
Plant details
Rumex sanguineus size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Herbaceous Perennial
- Habit
- Columnar upright
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Height
- 0.5-1 metres
- Spread
- 0.1-0.5 metres
- Time to full height
- 2-5 years
- Suggested uses
- Cottage and informal garden
- Native to
- Europe N Africa SW Asia
- Toxicity
- Harmful 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
Pruning and caring for Rumex sanguineus
- Cultivation
- Grow in any well-drained soil, in full sun
- Pruning
- Cut back after flowering to avoid self-seeding
- Propagation
- Propagate by seed
- Pest resistance
- May be susceptible to slugs and aphids
- Disease resistance
- Generally disease-free
Frequently asked questions
How do I grow Rumex sanguineus?
Grow in any well-drained soil, in full sun.
Where is the best place to plant Rumex sanguineus?
Rumex sanguineus prefers full sun. It suits exposed and sheltered positions.
What soil does Rumex sanguineus need?
Rumex sanguineus is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including chalk, clay, loam and sand. It is happy in soil of any pH. Aim for soil that stays well-drained.
How do I prune Rumex sanguineus?
Cut back after flowering to avoid self-seeding.
How big does Rumex sanguineus grow?
Rumex sanguineus reaches a height of 0.5-1 metres and a spread of 0.1-0.5 metres. It takes around 2-5 years to reach full size.
Is Rumex sanguineus hardy in the UK?
Rumex sanguineus has a UK hardiness rating of H6.
How do I propagate Rumex sanguineus?
Propagate by seed.
Is Rumex sanguineus toxic?
Harmful 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.