Round-Leaved Dock
Rumex obtusifoliusfam. Polygonaceae
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Pl. 5F44 — Rumex obtusifolius
Rumex obtusifoliusRumex obtusifoliusRumex obtusifoliusRumex obtusifoliusRumex obtusifoliusRumex obtusifoliusRumex obtusifoliusRumex obtusifoliusRumex obtusifoliusRumex obtusifoliusRumex obtusifoliusRumex obtusifoliusRumex obtusifoliusRumex obtusifolius
IOverview
Overview
Round-Leaved Dock (Rumex obtusifolius) is a perennial herb belonging to the Polygonaceae family and can be found across Europe, parts of Asia, and North Africa. Native to Albania, Algeria, Austria, Belarus, Belgium, and other regions, this plant thrives in moist, light to heavy soils with a pH between 6.5 and 7. Its distinctive features include its light green leaves and tall stature, reaching up to 1 meter in height. Known for both its edible and medicinal properties, Round-Leaved Dock is valued for its leaves, stems, and seeds which can be consumed. Additionally, it has been used traditionally for various health purposes.
Quick answers
What is Round-Leaved Dock?
Round-Leaved Dock (Rumex obtusifolius) is a perennial herb belonging to the Polygonaceae family and can be found across Europe, parts of Asia, and North Africa. Native to Albania, Algeria, Austria, Belarus, Belgium, and other regions, this plant thrives in moist, light to heavy soils with a pH between 6.
IV·bMixology suggestions
1 draft
Mixology suggestions
1 draftEditorial drafts. These pairings are AI-suggested from traditional herbal lore. Always verify with a qualified herbalist before brewing.
Digestive Harmony
digestiontincture
Traditional use for digestive issues.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Round-Leaved Dock thrives in moist conditions and prefers light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay) soils with a pH of 6.5–7. It is hardy in temperate regions from USDA zones 4-8 and grows as a perennial to about 1 meter tall. This plant requires full sun to partial shade and should be watered regularly to maintain moist soil. For propagation, division or seed sowing can be used. Harvest edible parts such as leaves, stems, and seeds in the appropriate season.
Light
8/10
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
4-8
Life cycle
Perennial
Habit
Forb/herb
Mature size
1.0 m tall
Soil pH
6.5–7
For first-time growers
How to grow Round-Leaved Dock for the first time
7steps
Round-Leaved Dock is a forgiving plant for beginners, making it an excellent choice for your first gardening project.
- 1
What you'll need
Seeds or young plants, a garden fork, and a trowel.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring after the last frost or in early fall for best results.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Ensure soil is well-draining with a pH between 6.5–7, and prepare by loosening it with a garden fork.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Direct sow seeds 1 cm deep in rows 30 cm apart, or transplant young plants into the prepared soil.
- 5
First two weeks
Keep the soil moist and monitor for any signs of pests or diseases.
- 6
Ongoing care
Water regularly to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Mulch around the base to retain moisture.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune back after flowering to encourage new growth and maintain a neat appearance.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:LeavesSeedStem
Edible uses: The round-leaved dock is edible and can be consumed in various forms. Its leaves, stems, and seeds are all usable. The leaves can be eaten raw or cooked, while the stems are typically prepared by boiling before consumption. Seeds can also be harvested and used as a food source.
Other uses:DyeDynamic accumulator
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
30 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
30 native · 0 introducedDistribution across3 continents· 30 native
Europe18 regions
native (18)AustriaBelarusBelgiumBulgariaDenmarkFinlandFranceGermanyGreeceHungaryIrelandItalyNetherlandsNorwayRussiaSpainUkraineUnited Kingdom
Asia1 region
native (1)Iran
Africa1 region
native (1)Algeria
Broader regions
native:Altay, Baltic States, Czechoslovakia, Krasnoyarsk, Kriti, Lebanon-Syria
XSee 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
Growing zone
XII
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