Origin:
Rumex pulcher L. ssp. divaricatus (L.) Murb. is a plant that belongs to the Polygonaceae family. It is a perennial plant and its origin can be traced to Europe and Asia.
Common Names:
It goes by different common names such as redvein dock, wood dock, cedar dock, field sorrel, and sheep sorrel. The name ‘dock’ is used to describe plants belonging to the genus Rumex, which are mostly characterized by their large leaves.
Uses:
Despite its tendency to be labeled as an invasive plant in North America, Rumex pulcher L. ssp. divaricatus (L.) Murb. has several uses. It is a medicinal plant and is used for the treatment of various ailments. It has been reported that the plant has antimicrobial, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties. It is also used for culinary purposes, where the leaves are an ingredient in salads or used as a seasoning.
General Appearance:
Rumex pulcher L. ssp. divaricatus (L.) Murb. can grow up to 3 feet tall and has slender, erect stems. The leaves are green and lance-shaped with prominent red veins. The flowers are green in color and arranged in clusters which can grow up to 4 inches long. The plant prefers moist soils and can be found in disturbed areas, roadsides, and along stream banks.
Light Requirements
Rumex pulcher L. ssp. divaricatus (L.) Murb. requires full sun to partial shade for optimal growth and development. It can tolerate exposure to direct sunlight for several hours in a day, but prolonged exposure may cause leaf scorching. In low light conditions, the plant may become leggy and weak, and the foliage may lose its vibrant color.
Temperature Requirements
The plant prefers to grow in a temperate climate with a cool and moist environment. It can tolerate a wide range of temperatures, from 10°C to 30°C, but the optimal temperature range for growth and reproduction is between 15°C and 25°C. In areas with extremely hot temperatures, the plant may go dormant and stop growing until the temperature drops to a suitable level.
Soil Requirements
Rumex pulcher L. ssp. divaricatus (L.) Murb. grows well in a wide range of soil types but prefers well-drained, loamy soils rich in organic matter. The soil pH should be slightly acidic to neutral, ranging from 6.0 to 7.5. The plant has moderate drought tolerance but requires regular watering during the growing season to maintain healthy growth. Overwatering can lead to root rot and other diseases.
Cultivation methods
Rumex pulcher L. ssp. divaricatus (L.) Murb. is a hardy plant species that requires relatively minimal attention. The plant thrives in well-drained soils that are rich in organic material. Full sunlight exposure is ideal, but partial shade is also tolerable. Planting can be done directly from seed or transplanting of propagated plants.
Watering needs
The plant requires moderate watering to maintain growth and development. Watering should be carried out when the soil becomes dry, but care should be taken not to overwater the plant, which can cause root rot.
Fertilization
Rumex pulcher L. ssp. divaricatus (L.) Murb. does not require heavy fertilization, but the addition of organic fertilizers can be advantageous. The fertilization should be done in the early stages of growth, and a balanced fertilizer mix with nitrogen, potassium, and phosphorus, in equal parts, can be applied.
Pruning
Pruning is not mandatory, but it can be useful in controlling the size of the plant and removing damaged or dead parts. Pruning of flowering stems should also be carried out to encourage more vegetative growth and increase productivity. The ideal timing for pruning is in the early spring just before the plant begins vigorous growth.
Propagation of Rumex pulcher L. ssp. divaricatus (L.) Murb.
Rumex pulcher L. ssp. divaricatus (L.) Murb. (Red Dock) can be propagated by several methods:
1. Seeds
The most common method of propagation for Red Dock is by sowing seeds. The seeds can be directly sown into the soil at the desired location. The ideal time to sow seeds is during the autumn or early spring. The seeds should be sown at a depth of 1/4 inch and spaced about 1-2 feet apart.
2. Cuttings
Propagating Red Dock by cuttings is also possible. Select healthy stems of about 6-8 inches in length and remove all the lower leaves. Dip the cut end in rooting hormone and insert it into a pot with moist soil. Keep the pot in a shaded area and ensure that the soil remains moist until the plant establishes roots.
3. Division
Red Dock can also be propagated through division. This method requires an established plant, and it is best to carry out division during the spring or fall. Dig up the plant and separate the roots and stems into smaller sections, ensuring each section has enough roots and foliage to grow independently. Transplant the divided plants into a prepared bed with adequate soil and water regularly until established.
With proper care and attention, the propagation of Rumex pulcher L. ssp. divaricatus (L.) Murb. through seeds, cuttings, and division can be successful and results in healthy, attractive plants.
Disease Management
Rumex pulcher L. ssp. divaricatus (L.) Murb. is generally a hardy plant with few disease issues. However, there are a few diseases that may afflict this plant, including:
- Rust: This fungal disease appears as orange or brownish-red lesions on the leaves of the plant. To manage rust, remove any infected leaves and destroy them. Ensure there is proper spacing between plants and good air circulation to prevent the spread of the disease.
- Powdery Mildew: Powdery mildew appears as a white powdery substance on the leaves, stems, and flowers. To manage powdery mildew, prune any affected areas and destroy them. Increase air circulation and keep the soil moist.
Pest Management
There are several pests that may affect Rumex pulcher L. ssp. divaricatus (L.) Murb., including:
- Leafhoppers: Leafhoppers can cause leaf curling and yellowing. They can be managed through the use of insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Spider Mites: Spider mites appear as webbing on the underside of leaves and cause discoloration. They can be managed through the use of insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Slugs: Slugs can leave large holes in the leaves of the plant. They can be managed through the use of slug bait or by handpicking them off the plant.
