Disdained by many animals as a forage plant, sorrel often falls victim to farmers' control measures. However, certain species are perfectly suitable for human consumption in limited quantities.

The common sorrel used for consumption

The common sorrel used for consumption is the common sorrel (Rumex acetosa), which grows in many meadows in Central Europe in the same locations as the creeping buttercup. Although this type also contains potassium hydrogen oxalate, which is harmful to the human organism when ingested in large quantities, the quantity can be observed by observing certain rules. The leaves of this species should no longer be used, or only boiled, if they turn reddish in summer due to the increasing content of this sometimes toxic substance. The large sorrel grows to different heights in shady and sunny locations, but its towering flower panicles are rarely less than 100 centimeters high. For planting in your own garden, the seeds of wild specimens can be harvested and scattered in your own garden. The hardy seeds of the sorrel can cope with various site conditions, but it is difficult to contain the deep-rooted plants after they have first spread.

The dock family

A total of over 200 different subspecies belong to the dock family (Rumex), including for example:

  • Little sorrel
  • Curled dock
  • Roman dock
  • alpine dock
  • blood dock

While most sorrel species are not directly poisonous, they can contain varying amounts of the deadly potassium hydrogen oxalate, depending on location and species. Therefore, before consumption, you should consult people who are familiar with herbs in the respective collecting region or resort to the cultivation of purchased seeds in your own garden.

The confusion of the sorrel with other plant species

The sorrel can sometimes be confused with the poisonous Aaron's staff by inexperienced herb collectors. At a certain time in the spring, this has young leaves that look very similar to the sorrel. However, a distinction can be made on the basis of the leaf blade, since there are laterally pointed ends at the lower leaf ends of the sorrel leaves. These are round in the leaves of the Aaronic staff. If you want to be on the safe side, you should wait for the clear development of the first flowers for harvest.

tips and tricks

The various relatives of the common sorrel can be classified based on the color of their flowers, the growth height and the texture of the leaves.

Category:

Herbs