Bladder Dock, Rosy Dock, Ruby Dock, Sorrel Dock, Vesicarius Dock
Rumex vesicarius
🌿 Morphology
🌞 Growing conditions
🌍 Origin and family
🌾 Uses
Warning: Despite the care taken in writing this sheet, it is essential to cross-reference sources before using or consuming any plant. When in doubt, consult a qualified professional
Permaculture uses
Bladder Dock is edible; its leaves have a tart, lemony flavor similar to sorrel. The young leaves are best used in salads, soups, or stews. It is a drought-tolerant plant that can be used as a ground cover or in erosion control. Rosy Dock adds a visually appealing element to gardens with its reddish stems and seed pods. While generally safe, moderation is advised due to oxalic acid content.
Permapeople description
Rumex vesicarius, also known as Bladder Dock or Ruby Dock, is an annual herb with reddish stems and inflated, bladder-like fruits. It is native to North Africa and the Middle East and is sometimes cultivated as a leafy vegetable.
Botanical description
Rumex vesicarius, commonly known as Bladder Dock or Rosy Dock, is an annual herb in the Polygonaceae family. It typically grows to a height of 15-40 cm. The leaves are succulent, arrow-shaped, and have a distinct sour taste. It is characterized by its inflated, bladder-like fruiting calyx, which turns a bright pink or red color as it matures, giving it a decorative appearance. Flowers are small and greenish. The plant thrives in arid and semi-arid environments, preferring well-drained soils and full sun exposure.
Companion planting
Due to its adaptability to harsh conditions, it doesn't have strong positive or negative companion planting relationships. It can compete with other smaller plants if allowed to spread unchecked. Can be used as a ground cover in areas where more delicate plants might struggle.
Propagation methods
Propagation is primarily achieved through sowing seeds. Seeds should be sown in well-draining soil in spring or autumn. Bladder Dock self-seeds readily.
History and traditions
Bladder Dock has been used as a food source in arid regions for centuries. Indigenous peoples in Australia and the Middle East have traditionally consumed the leaves and stems for their nutritional value and refreshing flavor. It has also been used medicinally as a diuretic and to treat skin ailments. It is considered to be an ancient plant that has adapted well to dry climates.
Usage calendar
Flowering occurs in spring. Harvesting of leaves can be done from late winter to spring. Seeds mature in late spring to early summer. Sow seeds in spring or autumn.