Rumex hydrolapathum
great water dock
A tall, fast-growing spreading perennial dock which can reach a height of around 2m, with long, tapered green leaves widely found in damp, boggy places such as the edge of ponds, rivers and canals. Long spikes of pinkish-green flowers appear from July through to September. Leaves are edible with a lemony taste but should not be eaten in large quantity. They also have medicinal properties
Size
Ultimate height
1.5–2.5 metresTime to ultimate height
1 yearUltimate spread
0.1–0.5 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Poorly–drainedpH
Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | ||||
| Autumn | ||||
| Winter |
Position
- Full sun
- Partial shade
Aspect
East–facing or South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered Hardiness
H4Botanical details
- Family
- Polygonaceae
- Native to the UK
- No
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Habit
- Clump forming
- 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
How to grow
Cultivation
Grows best in moist soil or shallow water, avoiding acidic soils. Self-seeds freely and also spreads from the roots so can be difficult to control or eradicate. See the advice page on controlling sheep's sorrel for more details
Propagation
Propagate by seed
Suggested planting locations and garden types
Pruning
No pruning required
Pests
Diseases
Generally disease-free
Get involved
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