Sorrel - Common

Sorrel prefers a moderately acid soil and the soil needs to be kept moist for the best flavor and production. The fresh leaves are used by some to soothe canker sores. Sorrel is very high in Vitamin C and has many uses. Cut older, yellow leaves off to encourage the young, tender, healthy growth. The Sorrel leaves have a sharp, lemon/spinach flavor and is one of the earliest spring greens. In mild climates, Sorrel can be planted in the fall. The young tender spring leaves can be used as salad greens, famous for Cream of Sorrel soup, cooked like spinach and served with trout or salmon, or mixed in with cooked spinach or chard. The Sorrel plant is 12 to 36 inches tall and has large, crinkled, arrow-shaped leaves. The plant is also called Sour Dock, Herb Patience, and Patience Dock. Plant the Sorrel 2 weeks before the average last frost date. Sorrel is an underutilized vegetable in the United States and unjustifiably so. Once you try Sorrel, it will become as regular a garden plant as spinach. The Sorrel or Common Sorrel, 'Rumex acetosa', is a hardy perennial. ... additional information