Sorrel
Rumex acetosa
Botanical family: Polygonaceae
Rumex acetosa, a perennial Polygonaceae of meadows and pastures, with sharp-tasting leaves eaten raw or cooked. Blood-veined sorrel and patience dock (spinach-sorrel) broaden the palette. Sources: Tela Botanica, “Rumex acetosa L.” (Coste's flora); Plants For A Future, “Rumex acetosa”.
Sun to partial shade
Cool, rich, slightly acid
Regular, enjoys coolness (dryness makes it bolt)
Very hardy perennial
Overwinters in your zone
Role in permaculture
An unkillable perennial vegetable: planted once, it provides its tart leaves for years, from the first fine days to the frosts. An edible ground cover for cool corners, it self-seeds and divides easily. A perpetual leaf vegetable, perfect for a garden that lasts.
Good companions
Traditional companion planting (benefit not demonstrated)
Seasons & availability
A perennial: its sharp leaves are picked from early spring until the frosts.
Available: March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November.
Guidance for the oceanic / temperate climate; it may vary with your region, altitude, exposure and growing method.
Sources
- RHS, « How to Grow Sorrel » (rhs.org.uk/herbs/sorrel/grow-your-own)
- La Ferme de Sainte Marthe, « Réussir la culture de l'oseille » (fermedesaintemarthe.com/en/blogs/comment-reussir-la-culture-de/reussir-la-culture-de-loseille)
Nutritional & medicinal properties
For educational purposes. Not a substitute for medical advice. Effects depend on the form, the dose and personal context.
Precautions & contraindications
When foraging, do not confuse young sorrel leaves (arrow-shaped, parallel veins, tangy taste) with those of lords-and-ladies (Arum maculatum), which is toxic and grows in the same cool places. Arum has net-like veins and an acrid taste that burns the mouth (spit it out at once); it is the leading cause of plant poisoning recorded by French poison control centres (ANSES). Rich in oxalates otherwise: to be eaten in moderation in case of kidney stones, and preferably cooked (which reduces the content).
Species & varieties
The best-known species and varieties in France.
Common varieties
Before you forage
This plant is often gathered from the wild. Only pick what is abundant, never a protected species, and never uproot a whole plant (roots) without the landowner's permission. Rules vary by country and region, check locally.
Key takeaways
- • Prefers sun to partial shade exposure.
- • Ideal soil: cool, rich, slightly acid.
- • Classic companion: Peach tree.