Contents
Description
Rumex Scutatus, commonly known as French sorrel, is an herbaceous perennial plant that belongs to the family Polygonaceae. This plant is native to Europe and Asia and has been naturalized in North America.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Polygonaceae |
| Genus | Rumex |
Appearance
Rumex Scutatus has a basal rosette of leaves that are oblong or lanceolate in shape and have a slightly wavy margin. The leaves are usually green but can sometimes have a reddish tint. The plant produces small green flowers that are inconspicuous and not very showy. The plant can grow up to 30cm in height and spread up to 45cm.
Care Guide
Rumex Scutatus is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips for taking care of this plant:
- Water: Water the plant regularly, making sure the soil is evenly moist but not waterlogged.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers partial shade but can tolerate full sun in cooler climates.
- Hardiness Zones: Rumex Scutatus is hardy in USDA zones 4-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Rumex Scutatus is generally pest and disease-free. However, here are some common pests and diseases that may affect this plant:
- Aphids: These small insects can suck the sap from the plant, causing stunted growth and yellowing leaves.
- Slugs and snails: These pests can eat holes in the leaves of the plant.
- Fungal diseases: Powdery mildew and rust can sometimes affect the plant, causing white or brown spots on the leaves.
Habitat
Rumex Scutatus is native to Europe and Asia but has been naturalized in North America. This plant prefers moist, well-drained soil and partial shade. It can be found in meadows, forests, and along streams and riverbanks.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Rumex Scutatus edible?
A: Yes, the leaves of the plant are edible and have a tangy, lemony flavor. They can be used raw in salads or cooked in soups and stews.Q: Can Rumex Scutatus be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in containers as long as the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system.Q: Does Rumex Scutatus attract bees and butterflies?
A: The plant does not have showy flowers and therefore may not attract bees and butterflies.Q: Is Rumex Scutatus invasive?
A: The plant is not considered invasive but can self-seed and spread if not managed properly.
Related Plants
- Rumex Acetosa (Common Sorrel)
- Rumex Crispus (Curly Dock)
- Rumex Obtusifolius (Broadleaf Dock)
References
- “Rumex scutatus.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed October 30, 2021. http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c981.
- “French Sorrel.” University of Wisconsin-Madison Division of Extension. Accessed October 30, 2021. https://hort.extension.wisc.edu/articles/french-sorrel/.
- “Rumex scutatus.” Plantwise Knowledge Bank. Accessed October 30, 2021. https://www.plantwise.org/knowledgebank/datasheet/52959.
