Rumex, commonly known as Dock or Sorrel, with a gardener's perspective (and no metric units):

What Makes Rumex So Special?

Rumex species are a bit of a mixed bag for gardeners. Some are considered weeds, while others are cultivated for their edible leaves (Sorrel) or their ornamental value. What makes them "special," even the weedy ones, is their adaptability and often striking foliage. Some species have large, bold leaves, while others have interesting textures or colors, particularly the red-veined varieties. The cultivated sorrels are prized for their tart, lemony flavor, which adds a zing to salads and other dishes. However, many Rumex species are aggressive spreaders and can be difficult to control.

Description

• Growth Habit: Varies depending on the species. Some are low-growing and spreading, while others are tall and upright. Most are perennials, but some are annuals or biennials.
• Height: Ranges from a few inches to several feet tall, depending on the species.
• Foliage: Leaves are usually large, basal (arising from the base of the plant), and often have an elongated, lance-shaped, or arrowhead shape. The texture can be smooth, crinkled, or wavy. The color is usually green, but some species have red veins or reddish-purple coloration.
• Flowers: Small, greenish, reddish, or brownish flowers are borne in dense, branching clusters (panicles) that rise above the foliage. The flowers are not particularly showy.
• Fruit: The flowers develop into clusters of small, dry, often winged seeds.

Details Gardeners Care About

• Sunlight: Varies depending on the species. Some prefer full sun, while others tolerate part shade.
• Soil: Generally, prefers moist, well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. Some species tolerate poor soils.
• Water: Most species prefer consistent moisture, but some are quite drought-tolerant.
• Hardiness: Varies depending on the species. Many are hardy in USDA zones 4-8, but some are more cold-sensitive.
• Invasiveness: Very important! Many Rumex species are considered weeds and can be aggressively invasive, spreading by seeds and/or rhizomes.
• Deer Resistance: Generally considered deer-resistant.

Native Habitat

Rumex species are found worldwide, in a variety of habitats:

• Meadows
• Pastures
• Roadsides
• Disturbed areas
• Gardens
• Wetlands

Landscaping Design Tips

• Culinary Gardens: Grow Rumex acetosa (Garden Sorrel) or Rumex scutatus (French Sorrel) for their edible leaves.
• Ornamental Gardens: Some species, like Rumex sanguineus (Bloody Dock or Red-Veined Dock), are grown for their attractive foliage. However, be very careful about its potential to spread. Plant it in a contained area or be prepared to manage it aggressively.
• Borders (with caution): Some of the less aggressive species can be used in borders but be mindful of their potential to self-seed.
• Containers: Growing Rumex in containers is a good way to control its spread.
• Naturalistic Plantings (with extreme caution): Some species might be appropriate for naturalistic plantings, but only if you are prepared to deal with their potential invasiveness.

Planting and Care

• Planting Time: Spring or fall.
• Spacing: Space plants according to their expected mature size.
• Planting Depth: Plant at the same depth they were growing in their nursery pots.
• Watering: Water regularly, especially during dry periods.
• Mulching: Mulch can help retain moisture and suppress weeds.
• Fertilizing: Generally, does not need much fertilizer.
• Deadheading: Deadhead (remove spent flower stalks) to prevent self-seeding (highly recommended for most species!).
• Pruning: Cut back the foliage if it becomes tattered or leggy.
• Division: Perennial species can be divided in spring or fall.
• Controlling Spread: Be vigilant about removing unwanted seedlings and preventing the plants from spreading beyond their designated area.

Taxonomy (Simplified)

• Genus: Rumex
• Family: Polygonaceae (Buckwheat family)
• Common Species (Examples):
• Rumex acetosa (Garden Sorrel) - Edible leaves with a tart, lemony flavor.
• Rumex scutatus (French Sorrel) - Similar to garden sorrel, but often with a milder flavor.
• Rumex sanguineus (Bloody Dock, Red-Veined Dock) - Grown for its ornamental foliage with red veins. Can be very invasive.
• Rumex crispus (Curly Dock) - A common weed with wavy-edged leaves.
• Rumex obtusifolius (Broad-leaved Dock) - Another common weed.

Morphology (Simplified)

• Stems: Often reddish, especially in the weedy species.
• Leaves: Basal, often large, with an elongated or arrowhead shape.
• Ocrea A defining feature of this family, a sheath around the stem at the base of the leaf stalk
• Flowers: Small, greenish, reddish, or brownish, borne in dense, branching clusters.
• Roots: Can be taproots or fibrous roots, depending on the species.
• Fruit: Small, dry, often winged seeds.

Popular Varieties

• 'Bloody Dock' (Rumex sanguineus): Red veined leaves.

Other Insights

• Invasiveness (The Key Issue): Many Rumex species are aggressive weeds that can be very difficult to eradicate. Be extremely cautious about introducing them to your garden.
• Edibility (Sorrel): The cultivated sorrels (Rumex acetosa and Rumex scutatus) are valued for their tart, lemony leaves, which are used in salads, soups, and sauces.
• Oxalic Acid: Rumex leaves contain oxalic acid, which gives them their sour taste. Oxalic acid can be toxic in large quantities, so it is best to eat sorrel in moderation.
• Weed Identification: Learn to identify the common weedy Rumex species (like Curly Dock and Broad-leaved Dock) so you can remove them from your garden before they become a problem.

In summary, Rumex is a genus with a mixed reputation. Some species are valuable culinary or ornamental plants, while others are aggressive weeds. The key is to know which species you are dealing with and to be aware of their potential to spread. If you choose to grow Rumex, select the culinary sorrels or, with extreme caution, a contained ornamental variety like Rumex sanguineus. Always be prepared to manage its spread and never plant it near natural areas where it could escape and become invasive.