Species sorrel

sorrel

Rumex acetosa

Sorrel (Rumex acetosa) is a perennial herb with a sour taste. The leaves are light green and vibrant with red veins and usually grow upright in a rosette shape. It produces small yellow flowers and brown, triangular seed pods. Sorrel is usually found in meadows, fields, and along roadsides. This plant is easy to grow and is quite self-sufficient, often growing in full sun. It is often used as an edible vegetable, and can be used as a substitute for spinach or lettuce in recipes. The leaves are also used to make a refreshing tea.

Cycle:

Herbaceous Perennial

Watering:

Average

Propagation:

Division,Cutting,Layering Propagation,Seed Propagation,Offsets

Hardiness Zone:

3 - 7

Flowers:

Green turning reddish with age Flowers

Sun:

Full sun

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green,red,yellow,purple

Growth Rate:

Low

Maintenance:

Low

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

watering

Sorrel (Rumex acetosa) prefers moist but not wet or soggy soil. It should not be left without water for extended periods. The plant should be watered regularly and deeply. During the growing season, water it about once a week, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings. During hot, dry periods, water twice a week to keep the soil moist. In the winter, water occasionally as needed. Reduce watering when growth slows in fall, or when the leaves become yellow.

sunlight

Sorrel (Rumex acetosa), a perennial species, requires a minimum of 4 hours of direct sunlight each day for optimal growth and development. In regions with colder winters, a minimum of 6 to 8 hours of sunlight is preferable, while in warm regions, at least 4 to 5 hours is necessary. Sorrel prefers full sun in spring and early summer, but in hotter periods some afternoon shade will help protect it from the intense sun and heat. During the cooler months, full sun throughout the day is ideal. When planting, place sorrel in a location with a consistent amount of sun to achieve the best results.

pruning

For Sorrel (Rumex acetosa), pruning is recommended when plants are dormant in late winter/early spring. This is when the new tender shoots start to emerge, so they can easily be pruned back. Prune the Sorrel by cutting back the stems by 1-third to 1-half. This will increase air circulation and reduce the risk of disease. For best results, remove any dead or diseased leaves that may be present. Pruning may need to be done multiple times throughout the growing season to maintain the desired shape and size of the plant.

Season

Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Starts Flowering

Sorrel typically starts flowering in April or May.

Hardiness Map