Sharp Dock
Rumex conglomeratusfam. Polygonaceae
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Pl. 8B61 — Rumex conglomeratus
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IOverview
Overview
Sharp Dock (Rumex conglomeratus) is a perennial herb belonging to the Polygonaceae family and can be found in various regions across Europe, Asia, and North Africa. Native to Afghanistan, Albania, Algeria, Austria, and other countries, this plant thrives in moist, light to heavy soils with a pH of 5.5–6.5. Known for its edible and medicinal uses, Sharp Dock is valued for its leaves and seeds which can be consumed. Its distinctive features include its height of up to 1 meter and its adaptability to diverse habitats, making it a notable presence in many ecosystems.
Quick answers
What is Sharp Dock?
Sharp Dock (Rumex conglomeratus) is a perennial herb belonging to the Polygonaceae family and can be found in various regions across Europe, Asia, and North Africa. Native to Afghanistan, Albania, Algeria, Austria, and other countries, this plant thrives in moist, light to heavy soils with a pH of 5.
IV·bMixology suggestions
2 drafts
Mixology suggestions
2 draftsEditorial drafts. These pairings are AI-suggested from traditional herbal lore. Always verify with a qualified herbalist before brewing.
Gentle Digest
digestiontincture
Traditional use for digestive support.
Soothing Skin
skindecoction
Traditional use for soothing skin irritations.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Sharp Dock thrives in moist conditions and prefers light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay) soils with a pH between 5.5 and 6.5. It is a perennial that grows up to 1 meter tall and can be propagated through seeds or division. This plant is hardy in temperate regions and is native to Europe, Asia, and North Africa. Ensure it receives adequate light while maintaining consistent moisture. For best results, use well-draining soil with a neutral to slightly acidic pH.
Light
8/10
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Life cycle
Perennial
Habit
Forb/herb
Mature size
1.0 m tall
Soil pH
5.5–6.5
For first-time growers
How to grow Sharp Dock for the first time
8steps
Start with Sharp Dock as a simple perennial herb in your garden.
- 1
What you'll need
A packet of Sharp Dock seeds or young plants, a trowel, and a watering can.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring after the last frost or in early autumn for better establishment.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Ensure soil is well-draining with a pH of 5.5–6.5, either in the ground or a large pot.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Direct sow seeds 1 cm deep and 20-30 cm apart; transplant young plants at the same spacing.
- 5
First two weeks
Keep soil consistently moist, watering daily until germination. Thin seedlings to 20-30 cm apart.
- 6
Ongoing care
Water regularly, especially during dry spells, and mulch around the base for moisture retention.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune back after flowering to encourage new growth and maintain a neat appearance.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in heavy clay soil, neglecting regular watering during dry periods.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:LeavesSeed
Edible uses: The sharp dock is edible and its leaves and seeds can be consumed. The leaves are often eaten raw in salads or cooked as a vegetable. Seeds can also be harvested and used in various culinary applications.
Other uses:Dye
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
30 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
30 native · 0 introducedDistribution across3 continents· 30 native
Europe17 regions
native (17)AlbaniaAustriaBelarusBelgiumBulgariaCyprusDenmarkFranceGermanyGreeceHungaryIrelandItalyRussiaSpainUkraineUnited Kingdom
Asia4 regions
native (4)AfghanistanIranIraqKazakhstan
Africa1 region
native (1)Algeria
Broader regions
native:Kriti, Kirgizstan, Czechoslovakia, East Aegean Is., Free State, Baltic States, Cape Provinces
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXSee also
8 related
See also
8 relatedPlants you might compare or use together — scored by shared family (Polygonaceae), common use cases, and growing requirements.
same family · Polygonaceae
Botanical relatives — often share phytochemistry + growing needs.
XI
Explore further
Companion planting
Compare with similar plants
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