common sorrel
Scientific name: Rumex acetosa
Family: Polygonaceae
Other common names; sour ducks, vinegar plant
Flowering time: May to June
Height: to 60cm
Growing conditions: wet areas
Nectar source for:
Food source for:
Description
A perennial plant with leaves that taste extremely tart due to their high levels of oxalic acid. It attracts butterflies in the form of Small Coppers which use it to breed.
How to identify: An upright plant with arrow shaped leaves that grow from the stem at the base of the plant. Reddish flowers are carried on slender spikes.
How to propagate: Propagate by seed or rooted cutting or a division from an existing plant. Sow sorrel seeds in spring, a few in small pots filled with seed compost, cover and water well.
Family: Polygonaceae
Other common names; sour ducks, vinegar plant
Flowering time: May to June
Height: to 60cm
Growing conditions: wet areas
Nectar source for:
Food source for:
Description
A perennial plant with leaves that taste extremely tart due to their high levels of oxalic acid. It attracts butterflies in the form of Small Coppers which use it to breed.
How to identify: An upright plant with arrow shaped leaves that grow from the stem at the base of the plant. Reddish flowers are carried on slender spikes.
How to propagate: Propagate by seed or rooted cutting or a division from an existing plant. Sow sorrel seeds in spring, a few in small pots filled with seed compost, cover and water well.