Buckler-leaf Sorrel

Buckler-Leaf Sorrel

Buckler-leaf Sorrel

Some 200 species of annual, biennials, and perennials makes up this genus, which ranges throughout northern temperate regions. Rumex scutatus is one of the few species with any merit as an ornamental, though it may be difficult to eradicate when well established. Rumex crispus (curled dock) and R. obtusifolius (broad-leaved dock, lapathum), long used to treat skin complaints, are similar in constituents, containing laxative atnrhquinones; they stimulate bile flow and trigger the excretion of toxins. Rumex crispus gained ascendency among 19th century American physiomedicalists and predominates in modern practice. The roots of R. aquatica (water dock) are powdered as a dentifrice and used internally in similar ways to R. crispus. According to Pliny, Julius Caesar's soldiers were cured of scurvy by the use of herba britannica (since identified as R. aquatica). Rumex acetosella (Sheep's Sorrel) is best known as an ingredient of "essiac", a native American anti-cancer remedy that also includes Arctium lappa (See, Burdock), Rheum palmatum (See, Chinese Rhubarb), and Ulmus rubra (See, Slippery Elm). Most species contain oxalates, similar to those found in spinach and rhubarb. Oxalates are poisonous in excess, especially for those with a tendency to rheumatism, arthritis, gout, kidney stones, and hyperactivity. They are also acidic, which may affect sensitive teeth. In the past, young leaves of several species of Rumex were picked as pot herbs. Culpeper regarded docks as "exceedingly strengthening to the liver and as wholesome a pot herb as any" (The English Physician Enlarged, 1653). Most people today would find docks unpalatable, but sorrels remain popular.

Low-growing, mat-forming perennial, with cordate to hastate leaves, to 5cm (2in) long. Red-green flowers appear in loose, sparely branched panicles in summer, turning pale brown as fruits ripen.

Common Name:

Buckler-leaf Sorrel

Other Names:

French Sorrel

Botanical Name:

Rumex scutatus

Genus:

Rumex

Family:

Polygonaceae

Location:

Europe, W Asia, and N Africa

Cultivation:

Moist soil in sun or partial shade. Rumex crispus has deep roots and may be difficult to eradicate when established. It is subject to statuatory control as a weed in some countries, notably in parts of Australia.

Propagation:

By seed sown in spring (species only); by division in autumn or spring.

Harvest:

Leaves are picked when young and used fresh. Roots are lifted in autumn and dried for use in decoctions, liquid extracts, and tinctures.

Height:

15-50cm (6-20in)

:Width

1.2m (4ft)

Variations:

Silver Shield
Has silver-green leaves.

Hardiness:

Z4-8

Parts Used:

Leaves

Culinary Uses:

Leaves are used in the same way as those of R. acetosa (See, Sorrel) but are more acidic.

Bibliography: