great water dock

Also known as: horse sorrel; 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

Scientific classification

Species: great water dock (Rumex hydrolapathum)
Genus: Rumex
Family: Polygonaceae

Harmful if eaten in large amounts. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling
Toxicity: Aquatic · Bogs · Herbaceous Perennial
Plant type: 1.5-2.5 metres
Height: 0.1-0.5 metres
Spread: Deciduous
Foliage: Clump forming
Habit: Information to be completed
Season of interest: Full sun · Partial shade
Sunlight: Information to be completed
Ideal temperature

great water dock pictures

Distribution of great water dock

Distribution map

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Culture

Information to be completed

Toxicity

Harmful if eaten in large amounts. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling

Quick identification of great water dock

Information to be completed

great water dock care guide

Moderate regular watering, allowing brief slight drying between soakings
Watering: Full sun · Partial shade
Sunlight: Information to be completed
Ideal temperature

Watering

Moderate regular watering, allowing brief slight drying between soakings

Fertilizing

Balanced perennial feed every four weeks from spring through summer

Pruning

No pruning required

Propagation

Propagate by seed

Growing

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

More growing and care information →