Tangy, lemon-sharp leaves that wake up salads, soups and sauces — pick them young and tender. A hardy perennial that's among the first greens up in spring.
At a glance
- Plant type: Edible plant
- Mature size: 60 cm tall
- Aspect: full sun and part shade or morning sun
- Water: consistently moist soil
- Frost: hardy
- Maintenance: low maintenance
- Origin: Exotic
About Sorrel
Rumex acetosa is an fast-growing edible plant in the Polygonaceae family. It reaches around 60 cm tall at maturity.
Where to grow Sorrel
Sorrel suits warm-temperate and cool-temperate climates and grows best in full sun and part shade or morning sun. It is frost hardy and shrugs off cold winters.
Soil & planting
Most soils suit Sorrel provided drainage is reasonable. Dig in plenty of compost before planting, water in well, and mulch to keep roots cool.
Watering & feeding
Sorrel is consistently moist soil. Feed regularly through the growing season for the best crop. In its first year, water deeply once or twice a week to settle the roots in, then taper off as it establishes.
Pruning & care
Tip-prune Sorrel in spring to maintain a dense, shapely habit. Overall it is low maintenance.
Using Sorrel in the garden
Sorrel earns its place for edible harvests and pots and courtyard containers. It is equally at home in the ground or a large pot on a balcony or courtyard.
Companion planting & design
For a cohesive, low-care bed, pair Sorrel with other plants that enjoy the same consistently moist soil and warm-temperate climate. Group three or five together for impact rather than dotting single plants through the garden.
Good to know
Note that it is toxic to cats and dogs, so site it away from pets that chew.
Buying Sorrel
Plant Sale lists Sorrel as potted plants and seed. Stock isn't live yet — register your interest using the panel above and we'll email you the moment it is available.
Prefer to grow it yourself? See the Sorrel seed sowing guide for depth, timing and germination.