Rumex berlandieri
Meissn.
iNaturalist· cc-by-nc
(c) Ute Welk, some rights reserved (CC BY-NC)
iNaturalist· cc-by-nc
(c) Ute Welk, some rights reserved (CC BY-NC)
iNaturalist· cc-by-nc
(c) Scott Wagner, some rights reserved (CC BY-NC)
Summary
A compact perennial dock growing 0.6 m (2 ft) tall with hermaphroditic wind-pollinated flowers. Adapts to light sandy, medium loamy, and heavy clay soils with preference for well-drained conditions. Tolerates a range of soil pH from mildly acidic to mildly alkaline and grows in semi-shade or full sun with moist soil.
Description
A compact perennial dock growing 0.6 m (2 ft) tall with hermaphroditic wind-pollinated flowers. Adapts to light sandy, medium loamy, and heavy clay soils with preference for well-drained conditions. Tolerates a range of soil pH from mildly acidic to mildly alkaline and grows in semi-shade or full sun with moist soil.
Edible Uses
The leaves are edible cooked.
Medicinal Uses
None known.
Known Hazards
Plants can contain quite high levels of oxalic acid, which is what gives the leaves of many members of this genus an acid-lemon flavour. Perfectly alright in small quantities, the leaves should not be eaten in large amounts since the oxalic acid can lock-up other nutrients in the food, especially calcium, thus causing mineral deficiencies. The oxalic acid content will be reduced if the plant is cooked. People with a tendency to rheumatism, arthritis, gout, kidney stones or hyperacidity should take especial caution if including this plant in their diet since it can aggravate their condition.
Distribution
It is a temperate plant.
Where It Grows
North America, USA,
Cultivation
We have very little information on this species and do not know if it will be hardy in Britain, though judging by its native range it should succeed outdoors in many parts of this country. The following notes are based on the general needs of the genus. Succeeds in most soils but prefers a deep fertile moderately heavy soil that is humus-rich, moisture-retentive but well-drained and a position in full-sun or part shade.
Propagation
Sow seed in spring in a cold frame. Prick seedlings out into individual pots once large enough to handle, then plant out in summer. Can also be propagated by division in spring.
Other Uses
Although no specific mention has been made for this species, dark green to brown and dark grey dyes can be obtained from the roots of many species in this genus without the need for a mordant.
Notes
There are about 200 Rumex species.
