Rumex acetosella
TAXONOMY
FamilyPolygonaceae
GenusRumex
Zone3
LEARN MORE
Plants of the World OnlineABOUT
Rumex acetosella, commonly known as sheep sorrel, is a perennial herb in the family Polygonaceae. It is native to Europe and Asia but has spread to many other parts of the world. It thrives in temperate climates and is often found in meadows, grasslands, and disturbed areas. The plant has a distinctive sour taste due to its oxalic acid content.
ALSO KNOWN AS
Acetosa Arvensis
Acetosa Hastata
Acetosa Parva
Acetosa Repens
Acetosa Sterilis
Field Sorrel
Lapathum Arvense
Sheep Sorrel
Sheep's Sorrel
Acetosa acetosella
Acetosa multifida
Acetosella acetosella
Acetosella multifida
Acetosella multifida subsp. angiocarpa
Acetosella multifida subsp. australis
Acetosella multifida subsp. tenuifolia
Acetosella multifida subsp. vulgaris
Acetosella tenuifolia
Acetosella vulgaris
Acetosella vulgaris f. integrifolia
Acetosella vulgaris f. multifida
Rumex acetosella f. acetosella
Rumex acetosella subsp. acetosella
Rumex acetosella subsp. tenuifolius
Rumex acetosella var. acetosella
Rumex acetosella var. multifidus
Rumex acetosella var. tenuifolius
Rumex acetosella var. vulgaris
Rumex arvensis
Rumex fascilobus
Rumex multifidus
Rumex tenuifolius
OVERVIEW
VPDCalculate
WaterDry
SoilSandy
LightDirect Bright (6 Hours)
Temperature18° C
Humidity50%
Dormancy3 Months
pH4.5
Pressure1,013 mbar
DETAILS
Care Instructions
Sheep sorrel prefers direct bright light and moderate temperatures. It can tolerate dry conditions and does not require frequent watering. The plant thrives in temperate climates and can handle moderate humidity levels. It is relatively easy to care for and does not require much attention.Soil
Rumex acetosella prefers sandy soil that is well-draining. It can tolerate poor, acidic soils and does not require a nutrient-rich environment. Ensure the soil dries out almost completely between waterings to prevent root rot.Fertilizer
Sheep sorrel does not require fertilizer as it thrives in nutrient-poor soils. Over-fertilizing can harm the plant, so it is best to avoid adding any additional nutrients.Repotting
Repotting is not typically necessary for sheep sorrel, but if you are growing it in a container, you can repot it every few years to refresh the soil. Choose a well-draining sandy soil mix and ensure the new pot has adequate drainage holes.Propagation
Sheep sorrel can be propagated by seed or division. Seeds can be sown directly in the garden in early spring. For division, dig up the plant in early spring or fall and separate the roots, then replant them in a suitable location.Pruning
Pruning is not required for sheep sorrel. However, you can trim back any dead or damaged leaves to keep the plant looking tidy. Regularly removing flower stalks can also prevent the plant from self-seeding excessively.Toxicity
Rumex acetosella is not toxic to pets or humans. However, it contains oxalic acid, which can be harmful in large quantities. It is best to consume it in moderation and avoid feeding it to pets.Additional
Sheep sorrel is often used in herbal medicine and as a culinary herb due to its tangy flavor. It is also known for its potential health benefits, including anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.REVOLUTIONIZE YOUR PLANT CARE
Make Every Plant Smart
Plant Monitor
STAYS IN YOUR PLANT
Accurately measures the core metrics of your plant – soil moisture, light, temperature and humidity - as well as compound metrics such as Vapor Pressure Deficit (VPD) and Growing Degree Days (GDD).
Shop Now
