Bloody Dock
Rumex sanguineus
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Bloody Dock, also known as Blood Dock, Wood Dock or Red Veined Dock is most recognized as a garden plant, but this Rumex has wild origins. It is native to Europe and Asia and is common in most of Europe south of the 60 degrees parallel. The genus name Rumex is an old Latin name for sorrel, in fact some people call this plant sorrel. The Latin specific epithet sanguineus translates as blood-red from sanguis. Bloody Dock is in the Polygonaceae (buckwheat) family. The name is based on the genus Polygonum, and was first used by Antoine Laurent de Jussieu in 1789 in his book, Genera Plantarum.
Distinguishing Features
Bloody Dock is a slender herbaceous perennial plant with leaves coming from one central base. It is very distinguishable due to the leaves. They are lanceolate shape with prominent, deep red to purple veins running throughout which creates a striking contrast against the green leaf blade.
Flowers
Bloody Dock flowers have whorled spikes of reddish-green flowers. In early summer, tiny star-shaped flowers appear in panicles atop reddish-tinged stems. Flowers emerge green, but mature to reddish brown. The species is dioecious, with stamens and pistils on different plants.
Leaves
The lower leaves measure 7 to 15 cm (3 to 6") in length with long petioles. The upper leaves are sessile, and frequently become crimson.
Height
This plant grows on average to 60cm (2') tall.
Habitat
Bloody Dock grows in damp, shady places like ditches, forests, and waste grounds. Although native to Europe and Asia, it has been grown in gardens across many areas of the U.S. and Canada but has escaped gardens and naturalized in parts of North America.
Edible Parts
The leaves are edible when young but toughen with age. They can be used in soups, curries, and sauces or added to salad. The plant has a distinct sour taste. It contains oxalic acid, which some people need to be mindful of.
Other Name
Red Veined Dock.
Similar Plants
Rumex arifolius.
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