Species sheep sorrel

sheep sorrel

Rumex acetosella

Sheep sorrel (Rumex acetosella) is a perennial, edible plant found across North America and Europe, with arrows-shaped leaves. It grows in dry, grassy areas, often near roadsides and in arable land. Its edible leaves have a sharp, sour, acidic taste - great for adding zing to salads and sandwiches. Sheep sorrel also has many medicinal uses, such as a diuretic, antiseptic, demulcent, and astringent. Gather a few to try as a tea for upset stomachs or add a few leaves to vegetable dishes. Its small flowers bloom in early Summer, boasting yellow-green petals. Sheep sorrel is easy to recognize, easy to gather, and easy to use.

Cycle:

Herbaceous Perennial

Watering:

Minimal

Propagation:

Seed Propagation,Layering Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

4

Flowers:

Not showy, Orange, Red Flowers In Spring

Sun:

Full sun, Part sun/part shade

Fruits:

red,brown Fruits In Summer Ready In Fall

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green,yellow

Growth Rate:

Moderate

Maintenance:

Low

Poisonous To Pets:

Yes

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Invasive:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

Water Sheep Sorrel sparingly, as it likes to be slightly dry and can survive brief periods of drought. During periods of active growth, water moderately but make sure to never allow the soil to become completely soggy. To minimize the risk of root rot, water at the base of the plant rather than from above. During periods of dormancy, reduce watering to a minimum.In general, Sheep Sorrel requires watering every 7-10 days.

sunlight

For optimal growth and health of sheep sorrel (Rumex acetosella) plants, it is best for them to receive at least 5 hours of direct sunlight each day. Ideally, they should receive a maximum of 8 hours of direct sunlight each day; too much direct sunlight can dry out the plants and result in stunted growth. In addition, sheep sorrel plants thrive in locations that offer partial shade throughout the day as well, especially during periods of intense midday sunlight. During the summer months, locations with partial shade can be beneficial in protecting sheep sorrel from overheating in direct sunlight.

pruning

Sheep sorrel (Rumex acetosella) should be pruned in early spring, before the onset of new growth, down to a few inches above the roots. Pruning should be moderate, removing only the top 1/3 of the plant. Generally, this means removing some of the stems and most of the leaves. Depending on the desired size and shape of the plant, some stems may be left unpruned. If necessary, additional pruning may occur during summer or fall to control the plant's shape.

Season

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

Sheep sorrel typically starts flowering in April.

Harvest Fruit

The harvesting of Rumex acetosella (sheep sorrel) typically begins in late spring or early summer, usually in May or June.

Harvest Fruit

The harvesting of Rumex acetosella (sheep sorrel) typically begins in late spring or early summer, usually in May or June.

Hardiness Map