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Description
Rumex flexuosus, also known as curly dock or yellow dock, is a perennial herbaceous plant that belongs to the Polygonaceae family. It is native to Europe and Asia but is now widely distributed in North America. The plant grows up to 1.5 meters in height and has a deep taproot with a branched stem that is reddish-brown in color. The leaves of Rumex flexuosus are oblong to lanceolate and are about 20-30 centimeters long. The flowers of the plant are small, greenish, and are arranged in panicles.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Polygonaceae |
| Genus | Rumex |
Appearance
The leaves of Rumex flexuosus are dark green and glossy on the upper surface and lighter green on the lower surface. They are lance-shaped and have wavy margins, which give the plant its unique appearance. The plant produces small greenish flowers that bloom from June to September. After flowering, the plant produces seeds that are brown in color and triangular in shape. The seeds are enclosed in a papery bract that turns brown as it matures.
Care Guide
Water: Rumex flexuosus prefers moist soil, but it can tolerate periods of drought. It is important to avoid overwatering the plant, as this can lead to root rot.
Fertilization: The plant does not require frequent fertilization, but it benefits from an application of a balanced fertilizer in the spring.
Soil: Rumex flexuosus can grow in a wide range of soil types, but it prefers well-drained soils that are rich in organic matter.
Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade.
Hardiness Zones: Rumex flexuosus is hardy in USDA zones 4-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Rumex flexuosus is relatively pest and disease-resistant. However, it can be affected by rust, a fungal disease that appears as yellow-orange spots on the leaves. To prevent rust, it is important to avoid overhead watering and to remove infected leaves immediately.
Habitat
Rumex flexuosus grows in a variety of habitats, including meadows, fields, waste areas, and disturbed sites. The plant thrives in soils that are rich in nutrients and can tolerate a range of soil moisture conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Rumex flexuosus edible?
A: Yes, the leaves of the plant can be eaten raw or cooked and have a slightly sour taste.
Q: Can Rumex flexuosus be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in containers, but it requires a large container and regular watering.
Q: Can Rumex flexuosus be propagated from cuttings?
A: Yes, the plant can be propagated from stem cuttings taken in the spring.
Q: Can Rumex flexuosus be used for medicinal purposes?
A: Yes, the plant has been used in traditional medicine to treat a range of ailments, including constipation and skin conditions.
Related Plants
- Rumex acetosella (Sheep sorrel)
- Rumex crispus (Curly dock)
- Rumex obtusifolius (Bitter dock)
- Rumex sanguineus (Bloody dock)
References
- “Rumex flexuosus.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed September 1, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=279321&isprofile=0&
- “Rumex flexuosus.” Plants for a Future. Accessed September 1, 2021. https://pfaf.org/user/Plant.aspx?LatinName=Rumex+flexuosus
- “Rumex flexuosus.” USDA Plants Database. Accessed September 1, 2021. https://plants.usda.gov/home/plantProfile?symbol=RUFL4
