French sorrel, Buckler-leaved sorrel
Rumex scutatus
Family: Polygonaceae
What it is like
A leafy plant which keeps growing from year to year. It grows in clumps It is low growing and forms mats. The clumps can be 10-15 cm tall. The leaves are as broad as long and small. The leaves are 15 cm long and 8 cm wide. They are dark green and somewhat crinkly. The crisply or wavy edges help distinguish it. They have reddish stems. The flower stalks are long and tough and have red streaks. The flowers are small and greenish. The seeds are brown.
There are about 200 Rumex species.
Where it is found
It is a temperate plant. It does well on rocky well-drained soil. It needs a protected sunny position. It grows in alpine and sub-alpine regions. It suits hardiness zones 3-9.
Countries/locations it is found in
Africa, Australia, Balkans, Bosnia, Britain, Caucasus, Egypt, Europe, France (country/location of origin), Georgia, Germany, India, Iraq, Italy, Mediterranean, Middle East, North Africa, North America, Sicily, Slovenia, South Africa, Southern Africa, Spain, Switzerland, Tasmania, Turkey, Türkiye, USA
How it is used for food
The leaves are eaten in salads. They are used as flavouring in soups and omelettes. They are used in sauces. CAUTION: The leaves contain oxalates so should not be eaten in large amounts.
It is a commercially cultivated vegetable.
Edible parts
Leaves, herb, vegetable
How it is grown
Plants are grown from seed. The flower stalks are cut to prevent the plant going to seed.
The young tender leaves are harvested and used fresh.
Its other names
Local names
Aceturia, Agrietas, Ambavati, Amrula, Citulidda, Dastursusu, Eksimen, Gholo, ščitasta kislica, Tirsokturs