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Red-Veined Dock | Bloody Dock | Bloody Sorrel | Rumex sanguineus

Rumex sanguineus or Red Veined Dock is a visually stunning ornamental perennial that doubles as a unique edible green. It is most famous for its vibrant, lance-shaped leaves of bright green, which are heavily etched with deep crimson or purple veins, creating a dramatic "blood-stained" effect. While it produces tall spikes of tiny reddish-brown flowers in mid-summer, this plant is primarily grown for its striking foliage. Whether used as a bold accent in a damp perennial border, tucked into a container for texture, or harvested as a tangy addition to salads, it brings a sophisticated, dark-edged beauty to any garden space.

 

Growing Red-Veined Dock

  • Light: Thrives in full sun to partial shade; in hot regions, afternoon shade helps keep the foliage lush.
  • Soil: Prefers rich, moist, loamy soil but is adaptable to many types, including boggy conditions.
  • Water: Requires consistent moisture; do not allow the soil to dry out completely. Perfect for pond edges or damp areas.
  • Maintenance: Remove flower stalks as they appear to redirect energy into foliage growth and prevent excessive self-seeding. Harvest young leaves regularly for culinary use.
  • Wildlife: Provides habitat for various insects; generally ignored by deer due to the high oxalic acid content in the leaves.
  • Hardiness: USDA zones 4–9; very cold-hardy and reliably perennial.

 

Shipping Info

Red-Veined Dock plants are shipped in 4" nursery pots. The plants can be re-potted after they recover from shipping stress, approximately 1 to 2 weeks.

Growing Zones

4 - 9
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Low Temperature

-30°F

High Temperature

95°F

Fragrant

No

Polinator Required

No

Polinator Friendly

Low

Flower Color

Brown Green Purple Red

Growth Rate

Fast

Soil

Rich, loamy, or average soil; tolerates heavy clay and boggy conditions

Moisture

High

Sun Exposure

Full Sun to Partial Shade

Mature Spread

12 – 18 inches

Mature Height

12 – 18 inches

Bloom Period

Early to Mid-Summer

Pruning Time

Summer

Pet Safe

No

Perennial / Annual

Perennial

Evergreen / Deciduous

Deciduous

Blossomdale
Blossomdale
Blossomdale

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