Rumex obtusifolius
broad-leaved dock
R. obtusifolius is a robust, tap-rooted perennial to 1m or more, with smooth, oblong, long-stalked leaves. Upright sprays of small, green and red flowers are followed by similar-coloured fruit which then turn russet-brown, together with the stems which may persist into winter
Size
Ultimate height
1–1.5 metresTime to ultimate height
2–5 yearsUltimate spread
0.5–1 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Moist but well–drained, Poorly–drained, Well–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Green | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Green Red | Green | Brown | |
| Autumn | Green | Brown | ||
| Winter | Brown |
Position
- Full sun
- Partial shade
Aspect
North–facing or South–facing or West–facing or East–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered Hardiness
H7Botanical details
- Family
- Polygonaceae
- Native to the UK
- Yes
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Habit
- Columnar upright
- Potentially harmful
- Harmful if eaten in large amounts. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling
- Genus
Rumex can be annuals, biennials or perennials with mostly basal, simple leaves and erect panicles or racemes of small greenish or reddish flowers followed by reddish-brown, triangular fruits
- Name status
Correct
- Plant range
- Europe
How to grow
Cultivation
Grows naturally in waste and cultivated land, grassland and marshy places and can become a persistent garden weed
Propagation
Spreads readily by seed; root sections also regrow
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Wildlife gardens
- Wildflower meadow
Pruning
Cut back prior to seed setting to avoid self-seeding
Pests
Diseases
Generally disease-free
Get involved
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