Arctic Dock

Rumex arcticus

Physical Characteristics

Rumex arcticus is a PERENNIAL. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Wind. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers wet soil.

Distribution

N. Europe.

Habitats

Bog Garden;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Leaves Seed Edible Uses: Tender young leaves and stems - raw or cooked[46, 61, 105, 177]. An acid flavour, they are sometimes used like rhubarb[257]. They are also cooked as greens or eaten raw in salads[257]. A good source of vitamins A and C[257]. Seed - raw or cooked[172].

Medicinal Uses

Astringent The astringent leaves and stems have been used in the treatment of diarrhoea[257].

Known Hazards

Plants can contain quite high levels of oxalic acid, which is what gives the leaves of many members of this genus an acid-lemon flavour. Perfectly alright in small quantities, the leaves should not be eaten in large amounts since the oxalic acid can lock-up other nutrients in the food, especially calcium, thus causing mineral deficiencies. The oxalic acid content will be reduced if the plant is cooked. People with a tendency to rheumatism, arthritis, gout, kidney stones or hyperacidity should take especial caution if including this plant in their diet since it can aggravate their condition[238].