French sorrel

Rumex scutatus

Layer 4 · Herbaceous
Edible companion

Status by region

No restrictions recorded in the lists we checked.

Checked against the European Union list (Regulation 1143/2014) · Portugal's national invasive species list (Decreto-Lei 92/2019).

Information based on the cited sources, not legal advice — always confirm your local rules.

About

Perennial herb with acidic leaves appreciated in salads and sauces, known as French sorrel. In the herbaceous layer of a food forest, it provides edible leaves for most of the year and covers the soil. Prefers well-drained, stony soils and partial shade.

It can be planted now — September is one of the best months.

See which trees French sorrel grows well with

We have no trees recorded with this species yet. Start from the tree on your land.

See the central trees

No account needed.

Needs

Water: Medium
Light: Partial shade
Size: Perennial herb up to 0.4 m
Mature diameter: 0.3 m
Soils: Sandy, Limestone, Loam
Climates: Atlantic coast, Inland / Continental, Hot, dry Mediterranean, Mountain / cold

Calendar

January
February
March — Planting
April — Harvest — Planting
May — Harvest
June — Harvest
July — Harvest
August — Harvest
September — Harvest — Planting
October
November
December

Harvest
Planting

Medicinal use: The fresh leaves, with a pleasant acidic lemon-like flavour, are widely used in cooking in salads, sauces and soups, also possessing digestive and diuretic properties.

Where to buy

May grow well with

Suggestions worked out from growing conditions — same soil and climate, complementary layers and functions. These are not observed guilds; treat them as a starting point to try on your own land.