About
Rumex scutatus, French sorrel, is a low-growing, creeping perennial with spear-shaped, grey-green leaves. Small, greenish-red flowers are produced in summer, but the plant is mainly grown for its edible leaves with a fresh, lemony flavour � excellent cut for salads. A useful and ornamental herb for a sunny, well-drained border or kitchen garden.
About the genus
Rumex, the docks and sorrels, are annuals, biennials and perennials with mostly basal, simple leaves and erect panicles or racemes of small, greenish or reddish flowers followed by reddish-brown, triangular fruits. Some are ornamental, others edible.
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun, Partial shade
Soil typeChalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained, Well-drained
AspectEast-facing, South-facing, West-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH6
Plant details
Plant typeHerbaceous Perennial
HabitMatforming
FoliageDeciduous
Height0.1-0.5 metres
Spread1-1.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesCottage and informal garden, Patio and container plants
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
CultivationThrives in rich, fertile soil but will tolerate almost any well-drained soil in full sun or light shade
PruningYoung leaves can be harvested as a 'cut and come again' crop. If growing for foliage it is best to remove any flowering stalks that appear
PropagationPropagate by seed sown in situ, may self-seed in place if flowers are left to seed
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to slugs and aphids
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free