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Jessie Keith
Polygonaceae
Rumex scutatus
French Sorrel
Grown since the Middle Ages for its tangy leaves, this perennial herb is enjoying renewed popularity in gardens and kitchens. Native to Europe, western Asia, and northern Africa, it was first brought into cultivation in Italy and France.
The oval to arrow-shaped, medium- to silvery-green leaves of this low-growing, mat-forming plant are held in dense rosettes. In summer it bears erect, loose clusters of tall inconspicuous greenish flowers. Tan, three-angled seeds follow the blooms.
This hardy perennial does best in sun and moist, well-drained soil. It will tolerate partial shade and poor soil. Some winter chill is necessary for good growth; plants fail in tropical conditions. Divide plants if they become crowded or spread too far. Harvest young outer leaves for salads and soups. Remove flower stalks to promote vigorous leaf growth. Some cultivars such as the silvery leaved 'Silver Shield' are suitable for ornamental gardens.
6 - 1
6 - 9
3a, 3b, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24
Herb
Full Sun, Partial Sun, Partial Shade
6"-24" / 15.2cm - 61.0cm
2'-4' / 0.6m - 1.2m
Summer, Late Summer
Europe, Northern Africa, Western Asia
Acidic, Neutral
Well Drained
Clay, Loam, Sand
Medium
Average Water
Mat-forming
Summer, Fall
Insignificant
Green
Tan, Brown
No
Single
Matte
Container, Edible, Herb / Vegetable, Mixed Border
Sometimes
Birds
Yes
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