Flower Properties
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| English Name | Curly Dock |
| Scientific Name | Rumex crispus |
| MainColor | Green |
| PlantType |  Herb |
| Distribution |  Native |
| Season Found | July (Jun - Oct) |
| ImageUrl | Rumex-002 |
| Photographer | DP |
| Location Found | Hemel Hempstead |
| Country Found | UK |
| Last Updated | 13 September 2026 |
| Photo Quality | B |
Flower Details
Description
Curly Dock is a perennial herb with distinctive wavy-edged leaves and tall flowering stalks that can reach up to 1.5 metres. The flowers are small, greenish, and turn reddish-brown as they mature, forming dense clusters.
Distribution
This species is native to Europe and Western Asia but is now widespread across temperate regions worldwide, often found in disturbed soils, roadsides, and fields.
Medicinal/Other Uses
✅ Traditionally used for its laxative properties and to treat skin conditions. The roots have been used in herbal medicine for their potential blood-cleansing effects.
Edibility
Caution Advised - young leaves are edible when cooked, but older leaves contain higher levels of oxalates, which can be harmful in large quantities.
Human Toxicity
Mildly_Toxic
Mildly Toxic - contains oxalic acid, which can cause discomfort if consumed in large amounts, leading to symptoms such as nausea and vomiting.
Pet Toxicity
Mildly Toxic to dogs and cats - ingestion may result in mild gastrointestinal upset due to oxalate content.
Active Compounds
Oxalic acid, anthraquinones, tannins