Content
- The sorrel: species and growth characteristics
- Often used for consumption sorrel
- The family of the sorrel
- The confusion of the sorrel with other plant species
- Tips & Tricks
The sorrel: species and growth characteristics
Since the sorrel is spurned by many animals as a fodder plant, he often falls victim to the control measures of farmers. However, certain species are quite suitable for human consumption in limited quantities.
Often used for consumption sorrel
The sorrel usually used for consumption is the Great Sorrel (Rumex acetosa), which grows in Central Europe in many meadows in the same locations as the Creeping Buttercup. Although this species also contains potassium hydrogen oxalate, which is harmful to the human organism when absorbed in large quantities, the quantity can be observed by observing certain rules. In this species, too, the leaves should no longer be used or cooked only if they turn reddish in the summer due to the increasing content of this sometimes poisonous substance. The large sorrel attains different growth heights in shady and sunny locations, but its towering flower spikes are rarely less than 100 centimeters high. For planting in your own garden, the seeds of wild specimens can be harvested and scattered in your own garden. The resistant seeds of the sorrel cope with different site conditions, the containment of deep-rooted plants is after the first spread but difficult.
The family of the sorrel
Altogether over 200 different subspecies belong to the family of the dockers (Rumex), among them for example:
While most sapphire species are not directly toxic, they may contain varying amounts of fatal potassium hydrogen oxalate depending on location and species. Therefore, you should consult as far as possible with herbalists in the respective collection area before consumption or rely on the cultivation of purchased seeds in their own garden.
The confusion of the sorrel with other plant species
The sorrel may be mistaken by inexperienced herbalists sometimes with the poisonous Aaronstab. This has at a certain time in the spring on the sorrel very similar looking, young leaves. However, a distinction can be made on the basis of the leaf blade, since there are laterally tapered ends at the lower leaf ends of the sorrel leaves. These are formed around the leaves of the Aaronstabs round. If you want to be on the safe side, you should wait for the clear formation of the first flowers for the harvest.
Tips & Tricks
The various relatives of the Great Sorrel can be classified by the color of their flowers, the height of growth and the texture of the leaves.