toothed dock

Rumex dentatus

Physical Characteristics

Rumex dentatus is a ANNUAL/BIENNIAL growing to 0.6 m (2ft). It is in flower from May to June, and the seeds ripen from June to July. 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 and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist soil.

Distribution

S. Europe to E. Asia and Africa. An uncommon casual in Britain[17].

Habitats

Cultivated Beds;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Leaves Edible Uses: Tender young leaves - cooked as a vegetable[272].

Medicinal Uses

Astringent The root is used as an astringent application in the treatment of cutaneous disorders[240].

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].