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 H7. Suggested uses include wildlife gardens and wildflower meadow. It is native to Belgium, Brussels-Capital Region, Flemish Region, Walloon Region, Flanders and Grand Duchy of Luxembourg.
About
Rumex sanguineus, commonly known as wood dock or bloody dock, is a herbaceous perennial in the Polygonaceae family. It has a columnar upright habit, growing to between 0.5 and 1 metre in height with a spread of 0.1 to 0.5 metres. This deciduous plant reaches its full height within 2 to 5 years and thrives in full sun on south- or west-facing aspects. It tolerates a range of soil types including chalk, clay, loam, and sand, with well-drained conditions and a pH that can be acid, alkaline, or neutral. It is adaptable to both exposed and sheltered locations.
About the genus
The docks and sorrels, genus Rumex, are a genus of about 200 species of annual, biennial, and perennial herbs in the buckwheat family, Polygonaceae. Members of this genus are common perennial herbs with a worldwide native distribution in temperate and subtropical climates.
Wikipedia contributors, "Rumex", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Rumex
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
- H7
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
- Wildlife gardens, Wildflower meadow
- Native to
- Belgium, Brussels-Capital Region, Flemish Region, Walloon Region, Flanders, Grand Duchy of Luxembourg
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Rumex sanguineus
- Propagation
- Spreads readily by seed; root sections also regrow
- Pest resistance
- Slugs, Aphids
- Disease resistance
- Generally disease-free
Frequently asked questions
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 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 an RHS hardiness rating of H7, meaning it is fully hardy throughout the UK, tolerating temperatures below -20°C.
How do I propagate Rumex sanguineus?
Spreads readily by seed; root sections also regrow.
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