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AquaticBogsHerbaceous Perennial

Rumex hydrolapathum

water dock

A tall, fast-growing spreading perennial dock which can reach a height of around 2m, with long, tapered green leaves widely found in damp, boggy places such as the edge of ponds, rivers and canals. Long spikes of pinkish-green flowers appear from July through to September. Leaves are edible with a lemony taste but should not be eaten in large quantity. They also have medicinal properties

Other common names
horse sorrel
water dock
Synonyms
Rumex maximus
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Size
Ultimate height
1.5–2.5 metres
Time to ultimate height
1 year
Ultimate spread
0.1–0.5 metres
Growing conditions
Chalk
Clay
Moisture
Poorly–drained
pH
Alkaline, Neutral
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter
Position
  • Full sun
  • Partial shade
Aspect

East–facing or South–facing or West–facing

Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered
Hardiness
H4
Botanical details
Family
Polygonaceae
Native to GB / Ireland
Yes
Foliage
Deciduous
Habit
Clump forming
Potentially harmful
Harmful 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
Genus

Rumex can be annuals, biennials or perennials with mostly basal, simple leaves and erect panicles or racemes of small greenish or reddish flowers followed by reddish-brown, triangular fruits

Name status

Correct

How to grow

Cultivation

Grows best in moist soil or shallow water, avoiding acidic soils. Self-seeds freely and also spreads from the roots so can be difficult to control or eradicate. See the advice page on controlling sheep's sorrel for more details

Propagation

Propagate by seed

Suggested planting locations and garden types
Pruning

No pruning required

Pests

May be susceptible to slugs and aphids

Diseases

Generally disease-free

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