Sorrel Broadleaf

Broadleaf Sorrel (Rumex acetosa) is a hardy perennial that’ll give you loads of zesty leaves to liven up your salads. Its sharp, lemony flavour adds a fresh kick to all sorts of dishes.

Try shredding a few leaves and mixing them into some fromage frais or mayo for a quick, vibrant summer dip — great with new potatoes, grilled veg, or just spread on crusty bread.

It’s easy to grow and keeps coming back, so there’s always a handful of leaves ready when you fancy a bit of zing.

🌱 Seasonal Growing Guide

SPRING

• Sow seeds in trays or plugs and cover lightly with perlite.
• Germination usually takes 1–3 weeks.
• Once the seedlings are big enough to handle and the soil's warmed up, plant them out about 30–45 cm apart

SUMMER

• In the first year, just pick a few leaves here and there so the plants can settle in properly

AUTUMN

• A great time to divide older plants (2 years or more) if you want to spread them around the garden

WINTER

• Fully hardy, so no special treatment needed — it'll happily sit through the cold

EXTRA TIPS

• Leaves can taste a bit bitter in really hot weather, so it’s best to harvest before the heat peaks or wait until autumn
• Plants can grow up to 60–100 cm tall once they’re fully established