Rumex dentatus is an extremely variable species represented in N. Africa, Asia, and Europe by several quite distinct races, recognized taxonomically mostly as subspecies. However, the subspecies of Rumex dentatus are still insufficiently understood taxonomically and insufficiently delimited geographically[].

Common Name:

General Information

Rumex dentatus is an erect, annual to biennial plant, branched from the base and growing around 30 - 70cm tall[].
The plant is harvested from the wild for local use as a food, medicine and source of materials.

Known Hazards

Plants can contain quite high levels of oxalic acid, which is what gives the leaves of many members of this genus an acid-lemon flavour. Perfectly alright in small quantities, the leaves should not be eaten in large amounts since the oxalic acid can lock-up other nutrients in the food, especially calcium, thus causing mineral deficiencies. The oxalic acid content will be reduced if the plant is cooked. People with a tendency to rheumatism, arthritis, gout, kidney stones or hyperacidity should take especial caution if including this plant in their diet since it can aggravate their condition[].

Botanical References

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Range

N. Africa - Tunisia to Egypt; southeast Europe then eastwards through central Asia to the Himalayas and China

Habitat

Deep situations, 1,700 - 2,200 metres in Kashmir[]. Moist valleys and mountain slopes; at elevations from sea level to 2,500 metres[].

Properties

Edibility Rating
Medicinal Rating
Habit	Annual/Biennial
Height	0.60 m
Pollinators	Wind
Cultivation Status	Wild

Cultivation Details

Species in this genus generally succeed in a variety of soils, but they prefer deep fertile moderately heavy soils that are humus-rich, moisture-retentive and also well-drained, with a position in full-sun or part shade[].
Plants are usually annual, but, rarely, they can be biennial[].
This is an extremely variable species represented in N. Africa, Asia, and Europe by several quite distinct races, recognized taxonomically mostly as subspecies[]. It is closely related to Rumex pulcher[].
Being wind -pollinated, Rumex species usually hybridize readily, especially with other members of the genus they are more closely related to[].

Edible Uses

Tender young leaves - cooked as a vegetable[].

Medicinal

The root is used as an astringent application in the treatment of cutaneous disorders[].

Other Uses

Although no specific mention has been made for this species, dark green to brown and dark grey dyes can be obtained from the roots of many species in this genus, They do not need a mordant[].

Propagation

Seed - sow spring in a cold frame. When they are large enough to handle, prick the seedlings out into individual pots and plant them out in the summer.