common sheep sorrel
Family
PolygonaceaeScientific Name
Rumex acetosella
Other Common Names:
dock
field sorrell
sheep sorrell
red sorrell
Synonyms (former Scientific Names):
Rumex angiocarpus
Acetosella acetosella
Acetosella tenuifolia
Acetosella vulgaris
Rumex tenuifoliu
Habit
This perennial flowers from May through September. This plant has a woody stem and can grow from 1/2 to 2 feet in height.
Leaves
Leaves generally develop on the basal rosette, with a few growing up on the stem. The lower leaves are egg-shaped, 1-3 inches in length. Most leaves are hairless, and grow on petioles. Both the upper and lower surfaces of the leaves are covered with waxy granules.
Identifying Characteristics
Because of the plant's tendency to accumulate soluble oxalates, it can cause fatalities in livestock.
Flower Seed Head
Flowers develop in terminal clusters, and male and female flowers develop on separate plants. Female flowers are red to maroon in color, while male flowers are yellowish green.
Seed Fruit
The seeds develop in a triangular achene that varies from red to maroon in color. Rough flower parts usually surround the achenes.
Where Found
This plant prefers acidic soils, but can adapt to other conditions. It is common along roadsides, turf, and areas of poor drainage.
Growth Habit
upright and nonwoody
Thorns or Spines
not present
Approximate Flower Diameter
pencil
Dominant Flower Color
Varies:
red,
green
Flower Symmetry
not symmetrical
Leaf Hairs
no hairs
Leaf Shape
Varies:
round,
lance
Leaf Arrangement
alternate
Leaf Margin
entire
Leaf Structure
simple
Leaf Stalk
longer than leaf
Stem Hairs
no hairs
Stem Cross Section
round or oval
Milky Sap
not present
Root Structure
fibrous
Life Cycle
perennial
Ochrea
present
Plant Type
Herb