Golden dock
Rumex maritimus · Polygonaceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant golden dock: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Scientific name
- Rumex maritimus
- Family
- Polygonaceae
- Type
- Annual or biennial herb
- Adult size
- 30 to 60 cm in height
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Flowering
- June to September
- Hardiness
- Very hardy
- Origin
- Coastal and brackish zones of Europe, Asia and North Africa
Care
Light exposure
Install golden dock in full sun or partial shade. This plant tolerates sunny exposures well and appreciates direct light for optimal development. It also adapts to less bright locations, although growth will be slower.
Soil and substrate
Prefer well-drained soil, rather poor to moderate. Golden dock adapts well to sandy, loamy or even slightly alkaline soils, typical of coastal areas. It tolerates fairly well compacted soils and can withstand traces of salinity.
Watering
Water moderately during growth, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings. Once established, this species is not water-demanding and tolerates dry periods well. In pots, ensure good drainage to prevent root rot.
Fertilizer
No fertilizer is necessary for this pioneer species which is undemanding. Poor to moderate soil is sufficient for its development. Excess nutrients may promote uneven growth at the expense of flowering.
Pruning and maintenance
No pruning is essential. You can remove spent flowers to prolong flowering and prevent excessive self-seeding. In late autumn, let the plant dry naturally or remove it if it becomes invasive.
Pests and diseases
This plant is very resistant and rarely affected by diseases or pests. In very humid and confined conditions, some aphids may occasionally appear. Good air circulation and watering at the base will minimize any risk.
Did you know?
Rumex maritimus, known as golden dock, is a pioneer plant of coastal and brackish zones that grows naturally in salt meadows and on mudflats. Its name evokes its marine habitat and its membership in the Rumex genus, rich in edible species (such as sorrel). In the past, its slightly acidic young leaves served as a substitute for sorrel in cooking, though it is less commonly used today.
Where to buy it
Plant in spring or early autumn, avoiding spells of intense heat. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, April, May, September.
Add this plant to my garden →Plants from the same family
- SorrelRumex acetosa
- Pink knotweedPersicaria capitata
- Mile-a-minute vineFallopia baldschuanica
- RhubarbRheum rhabarbarum
- Maidenhair vineMuehlenbeckia complexa
- Red bistortBistorta amplexicaulis
Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.