Rumex scutatus, commonly known as French sorrel or shield-leaf sorrel, is a perennial herbaceous plant that belongs to the Polygonaceae family. Native to Europe and western Asia, it has been introduced and naturalized worldwide. The plant typically grows up to 30 cm in height and features a basal rosette of shield-shaped, dark green leaves with a glossy surface. The leaves are edible and have a tangy lemon flavor, making them popular for salads and sauces.
Rumex scutatus thrives in moist soils and partial shade, though it can also tolerate full sun exposure. It blooms from May to July with small greenish flowers arranged in panicles on tall stems above the foliage. These flowers are followed by small triangular seeds, which can be used as an herbal remedy for digestive issues.
French sorrel is easy to grow from seed or by dividing established clumps, making it a favorite among gardeners. Its tangy flavor serves as an excellent substitute for lemon juice or vinegar in recipes, while its attractive foliage adds visual interest to garden beds or container plantings.
In summary, Rumex scutatus is a versatile herbaceous perennial that offers both ornamental and culinary benefits. Once established, it requires minimal care, making it a valuable addition to any garden.
Botanical profile.
- Plant Type
- Herb
- Life Cycle
- Perennial
- Genus
- Rumex
- Family
- Polygonaceae
- Hardiness Zone
- 5-9
- Mature Height
- 30 cm
- Mature Spread
- 61 cm
- Leaf Color
- Green
- Leaf Type
- Deciduous
- Flower Color
- White, Green
- Flower Size
- 0.25 cm to 0.51 cm
- Bloom Time
- Mid spring, Late spring, Early summer
- Planting Time
- Spring, Summer, Autumn
- Harvest Time
- Summer
- Native Area
- Turkey, Austria, Bulgaria, Poland, Greece, Ukraine, Iraq, Germany, Italy, Kazakhstan, Spain, Switzerland, Netherlands, Iran, Albania, Romania, Belgium, France
Other names.
