Common Sorrel

Rumex acetosa

SIZE AND DESCRIPTION

Perennial to 60cm tall. Leaves are arrowhead-shaped, with backwards-pointing basal lobes. Flowers are reddish and small, with three broad inner segments that become red and papery in the fruits. Also called Patriot’s Blood and Sour Dock.

DISTRIBUTION

Widespread in northern temperate regions, and cultivated in gardens.

USES

Salad pot herb from ancient times; tastes metallic if cooked in an iron pan. Leaves are high in vitamin C, and oxalic acid gives them a tangy acid taste. They can be added to salads, soups and vegetable dishes, and sorrel purée is a good complement to fish and egg dishes.