sheep's sorrel

Also known as: Information to be completed

A fast-growing, spreading perennial with ovate green leaves, arrow-shaped at the base, on rosettes of basal leaf stalks and on stems. Leaves are edible, bitter tasting but should not be eaten in large quantity. Produces spikes of red to yellowish flowers to 40cm high

Scientific classification

Species: sheep's sorrel (Rumex acetosella)
Genus: Rumex
Family: Polygonaceae

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

sheep's sorrel pictures

Distribution of sheep's sorrel

Distribution map

Information to be completed

Culture

Information to be completed

Toxicity

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

Quick identification of sheep's sorrel

Information to be completed

sheep's sorrel care guide

Moderate regular watering, avoid prolonged drought or waterlogging
Watering: Full sun · Partial shade
Sunlight: Information to be completed
Ideal temperature

Watering

Moderate regular watering, avoid prolonged drought or waterlogging

Fertilizing

Balanced feed in spring and light repeat in growth season

Pruning

No pruning required

Propagation

Propagate by seed

Growing

Grows best in full sun in any soil, in mild areas may grow all year round. 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 →