Rumex daiwoo

Makino

Polygonaceae Edible: Leaves, Seeds Potential hazards — see below

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Summary

A perennial reaching 1 m in height, wind-pollinated with hermaphroditic flowers. Grows in light sandy, medium loamy, or heavy clay soils across mildly acidic to basic pH ranges. Tolerates semi-shade to full sun and prefers moist to wet soil conditions.

Description

Edible Uses

The leaves are edible cooked. The seeds are also cooked and used to make a gruel.

Medicinal Uses

The root is anticoagulant, antipruritic, antipyretic, diuretic, and laxative.

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

Asia, China, Japan,

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. There is a report that the plant is used to kill bugs, though no further details are given.