Broad-leaved Dock
Rumex obtusifolius
Also listed as Acetosa obtusifolia, Lapathum obtusifolium
Also known as Bitter Dock, Blunt-leaved Dock, Red-veined Dock
Climate Match for your location
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A robust perennial dock with large, broad leaves and tall flower spikes bearing small greenish flowers followed by distinctive winged seeds. Often considered a weed, it establishes readily in disturbed areas and damp soils.
Why grow it
Broad-leaved dock tolerates wet, poorly drained soils better than many related species and establishes readily without coddling, making it useful for stabilizing damp disturbed ground. Its large leaves and substantial root system can suppress competing vegetation once established. However, common docks (Rumex species) are primarily valued in permaculture for their deep taproots, which can break hardpan and accumulate minerals for dynamic accumulation, rather than for ornamental or culinary merit.
Watch out for
The deep taproot is difficult to remove completely from soil, and root fragments left behind will regrow. In mowed or grazed settings, repeated cutting favors this species' spread since it regenerates from the rootstock. Dense stands can shade out desirable perennials, so intentional placement and periodic thinning help prevent unwanted dominance.
Overview
- Form
- Growth Rate
- Size
- Dormancy
- Family
- Polygonaceae
Native Range
Europe
Seasonality
Bloom Season
Harvest Season
Edible Parts
Season of Interest
Herb
Soft non-woody plants of the field layer.
Succession Role
Tolerances & Soil
Establishment & Care
- Establishment
- Maintenance
- Propagation
A robust perennial dock with large, broad leaves and tall flower spikes bearing small greenish flowers followed by distinctive winged seeds. Often considered a weed, it establishes readily in disturbed areas and damp soils.
Climate Match for your location
See how well Broad-leaved Dock grows in your area.
Enter your ZIP code and we'll show you how this plant fits your local climate.
Why grow it
Broad-leaved dock tolerates wet, poorly drained soils better than many related species and establishes readily without coddling, making it useful for stabilizing damp disturbed ground. Its large leaves and substantial root system can suppress competing vegetation once established. However, common docks (Rumex species) are primarily valued in permaculture for their deep taproots, which can break hardpan and accumulate minerals for dynamic accumulation, rather than for ornamental or culinary merit.
Watch out for
The deep taproot is difficult to remove completely from soil, and root fragments left behind will regrow. In mowed or grazed settings, repeated cutting favors this species' spread since it regenerates from the rootstock. Dense stands can shade out desirable perennials, so intentional placement and periodic thinning help prevent unwanted dominance.
Overview
- Form
- Growth Rate
- Size
- Dormancy
- Family
- Polygonaceae
Native Range
Europe
Seasonality
Bloom Season
Harvest Season
Edible Parts
Season of Interest
Herb
Soft non-woody plants of the field layer.
Succession Role
Tolerances & Soil
Establishment & Care
- Establishment
- Maintenance
- Propagation
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