There’s something special about growing herbs that serve double duty as both culinary treasures and attractive garden plants. Sorrel fits this description perfectly, offering a distinctive lemony tang to dishes while providing beautiful foliage in your garden space.
This often-overlooked perennial deserves a place in every herb garden, vegetable patch, or even ornamental border.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about growing sorrel successfully, from selecting the right variety to harvesting and using this versatile herb in your kitchen.
Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just starting out, you’ll discover why sorrel has been valued for centuries and how easy it is to grow this nutritious, flavorful plant.
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What is Sorrel?
Sorrel is a perennial leafy plant in the Polygonaceae (buckwheat) family, characterized by its bright green leaves and distinctive tangy, lemony flavor. This tartness comes from oxalic acid, the same compound found in rhubarb and spinach.
While sorrel has been a staple in European cuisine for centuries, particularly French and Eastern European cooking, it’s only recently gaining popularity in North American gardens. Historically, sorrel was used medicinally and as a food source, especially valued for its early spring growth when few other fresh greens were available.
Types of Sorrel
Several types of sorrel are commonly grown in gardens, each with distinct characteristics:
Garden Sorrel (Rumex acetosa)
- Appearance: Reaches 12-24 inches tall with long, arrow-shaped leaves that can grow up to 6 inches long
- Flavor: Strong, lemony tang with noticeable acidity
- Best uses: Cooked dishes, soups, sauces
- Growing notes: Very hardy (zones 3-7), tolerates poor soil, prefers cooler temperatures
French Sorrel (Rumex scutatus)
- Appearance: Lower-growing (about 12 inches tall) with shield-shaped leaves
- Flavor: Milder and less acidic than garden sorrel, still with pleasant tanginess
- Best uses: Salads, garnishes, lighter dishes
- Growing notes: Slightly less cold-hardy (zones 4-8), excellent for containers
Red-Veined Sorrel (Rumex sanguineus var. sanguineus)
- Appearance: Deep green leaves with striking red veins, highly ornamental
- Flavor: Similar to garden sorrel but slightly less acidic
- Best uses: Visual appeal in salads, ornamental edible borders
- Growing notes: Zones 5-9, beautiful in both herb gardens and ornamental beds
Sheep’s Sorrel (Rumex acetosella)
- Appearance: Small, narrow leaves with distinctive lobes at the base
- Flavor: Very acidic, more intense than garden varieties
- Best uses: Wild foraging, small quantities in mixed salads
- Growing notes: Often considered a weed, spreads aggressively via running roots
When to Plant Sorrel
Sorrel is an early riser in the garden and can be one of the first edible greens available in spring. Here’s when to plant:
- Seeds outdoors: Early spring as soon as soil can be worked (typically February-May)
- Seedlings transplanting: Late spring after danger of frost has passed
- Division of established plants: Early spring or fall
In colder regions (zones 3-4), starting seeds indoors 3-4 weeks before the last frost gives you a head start. In warmer regions (zones 7-8), fall planting may be preferable to avoid summer heat, which can cause sorrel to bolt quickly.
Where to Plant Sorrel
Sorrel grows best in:
- Light conditions: Full sun to partial shade (partial shade preferable in hot climates)
- Location: Near the kitchen for easy harvesting or as an edging plant
- Garden type: Herb gardens, vegetable plots, perennial borders, or containers
- Spacing: 12-18 inches between plants (they will form clumps over time)
Since sorrel is a perennial, choose a permanent location where it can remain for several years. Consider planting it with other perennial vegetables like asparagus or rhubarb, or with herbs that enjoy similar conditions such as chives, mint, or parsley.
Soil Preparation
Sorrel isn’t terribly picky about soil but performs best with:
- Soil type: Well-draining loamy soil
- pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (5.5-6.8 is ideal)
- Organic matter: Incorporate compost before planting to improve fertility and moisture retention
- Drainage: Ensure good drainage, as sorrel dislikes waterlogged conditions
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Starting Sorrel from Seed
Starting sorrel from seed is straightforward and economical:
- Indoor starting: Sow seeds in pots 3 weeks before last frost
- Fill small pots with seed-starting mix
- Sow seeds 1/4 inch deep
- Keep soil moist but not saturated
- Place in bright location at 65-70°F
- Expect germination in 7-14 days
- Transplant when seedlings have 2-3 true leaves
- Direct sowing outdoors:
- Prepare soil by removing weeds and rocks
- Sow seeds 1/4 inch deep and 1 inch apart in rows 12-18 inches apart
- Keep soil consistently moist until germination
- Thin seedlings to final spacing (12-18 inches) when they reach 2-3 inches tall
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Growing Sorrel Successfully
Watering Requirements
Sorrel prefers consistent moisture but isn’t as thirsty as many leafy greens:
- Water regularly, providing about 1 inch per week including rainfall
- Increase watering during hot, dry periods
- Apply mulch to retain soil moisture and suppress weeds
- Container-grown sorrel requires more frequent watering
Fertilization
Sorrel isn’t a heavy feeder but benefits from:
- Incorporating compost at planting time
- Side-dressing with compost in spring when growth resumes
- Applying a balanced organic fertilizer in early spring
- Avoiding high-nitrogen fertilizers which can reduce flavor intensity
Managing Flower Stalks
Sorrel will naturally try to flower and set seed, especially as days lengthen and temperatures rise:
- Remove flower stalks as soon as they appear by cutting at the base
- This redirects energy to leaf production rather than seed formation
- If flowers are allowed to develop, leaf quality and flavor will decline
- In hot weather, cutting the plant back entirely to 2-3 inches above the ground will encourage fresh leaf growth
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Seasonal Care Guide
Spring
- Remove any winter-damaged leaves
- Apply compost around plants as they emerge
- Divide established plants every 3-4 years
- Begin harvesting outer leaves when plants reach 4-6 inches tall
Summer
- Watch for and remove flower stalks promptly
- Provide afternoon shade in hot regions
- Harvest regularly to encourage new growth
- Cut plants back if leaves become tough or bitter
Fall
- Continue harvesting until frost
- Apply mulch in colder regions for winter protection
- Collect seeds if desired
Winter
- In zones 5 and below, apply a thick layer of mulch after ground freezes
- In warmer zones, sorrel may remain semi-evergreen
- Container-grown plants should be protected from freezing
Container Growing Guide
Sorrel adapts well to container growing, making it accessible even for gardeners with limited space:
- Container size: Minimum 12 inches deep and wide
- Soil: Use high-quality potting mix with added compost
- Watering: Check frequently as containers dry out faster than garden soil
- Feeding: Apply liquid organic fertilizer monthly during growing season
- Overwintering: In cold zones, move containers to a protected area or insulate the pot
Companion Planting
Sorrel grows well with certain plant neighbors while potentially helping others:
Good companions for sorrel:
- Chives and other alliums (repel pests)
- Strawberries (similar growing conditions)
- Mint (both enjoy moist conditions)
- Thyme (contrasting growth habit)
Plants to avoid planting with sorrel:
- Aggressive spreaders like horseradish that might overwhelm it
- Plants requiring very dry conditions
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Potential Problems and Solutions
Common Pests
Sorrel is relatively pest-resistant, but can occasionally face challenges from:
Aphids
- Signs: Clusters of tiny insects on undersides of leaves, sticky residue
- Solution: Strong spray of water, insecticidal soap, or introducing beneficial insects like ladybugs
Slugs and Snails
- Signs: Irregular holes in leaves, slime trails
- Solution: Hand-picking, diatomaceous earth barriers, beer traps, copper tape around containers
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Leafminers
- Signs: Tunneling patterns within leaves
- Solution: Remove and destroy affected leaves, use floating row covers
Diseases
Powdery Mildew
- Signs: White powdery coating on leaves
- Solution: Improve air circulation, avoid overhead watering, apply organic fungicide if severe
Root Rot
- Signs: Wilting despite moist soil, blackened roots
- Solution: Improve drainage, avoid overwatering, replant in fresh soil if necessary
Other Common Issues
Bolting (Premature Flowering)
- Cause: Hot weather, long daylight hours
- Solution: Provide shade in hot weather, cut flower stalks immediately, grow in cooler seasons
Tough or Bitter Leaves
- Cause: Age, heat stress, or flowering
- Solution: Harvest younger leaves, cut plants back to encourage fresh growth, grow in cooler seasons
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Harvesting and Using Sorrel
When and How to Harvest
Sorrel can be harvested throughout the growing season:
- First harvest: When plants reach 4-6 inches tall (typically 35-60 days after planting)
- Method: For ongoing harvest, pick outer leaves individually, allowing center to continue growing
- Timing: Morning harvest provides best flavor
- Young vs. mature: Young leaves (2-4 inches) are milder and better for salads; mature leaves are better for cooking
Storage Methods
Sorrel is best used fresh but can be preserved:
Fresh storage:
- Wrap unwashed leaves in damp paper towel inside plastic bag
- Refrigerate for up to one week
Freezing:
- Blanch leaves briefly in boiling water
- Shock in ice water and drain thoroughly
- Freeze in airtight containers or freezer bags
- Alternatively, purée with a bit of olive oil and freeze in ice cube trays
Drying:
- Not ideal for sorrel as it loses much of its flavor
- If drying, use mature leaves and dry quickly at low temperature
Nutritional Benefits and Cautions
Sorrel offers impressive nutritional value:
- High in vitamin C and vitamin A
- Good source of iron and potassium
- Contains antioxidants
Caution regarding oxalic acid:
- Consume in moderation as part of a varied diet
- Not recommended for those with kidney stones, gout, or rheumatoid arthritis
- Cooking reduces oxalic acid content significantly
- Young children should consume only in small amounts
Culinary Uses of Sorrel
Sorrel’s lemony flavor makes it versatile in the kitchen:
Traditional Uses
- French sorrel soup (soupe à l’oseille)
- Eastern European schav (sorrel soup)
- Fish dishes (especially salmon)
- Egg dishes (omelets, frittatas)
- Sauces for meat and fish
Modern Applications
- Sorrel pesto
- Herb butters
- Sandwich spreads
- Salad dressings
- Infused oils
Classic Sorrel Soup Recipe
Ingredients:
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 3 medium potatoes, cubed
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 3 cups sorrel leaves, stems removed and roughly chopped
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or sour cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat
- Add onion and sauté until translucent (about 5 minutes)
- Add potatoes and broth, bring to a boil
- Reduce heat and simmer until potatoes are tender (about 15 minutes)
- Stir in sorrel leaves and simmer for 2-3 minutes until wilted
- Purée soup using an immersion blender
- Stir in cream, season with salt and pepper
- Heat gently without boiling and serve
Sorrel Butter Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/4 cup young sorrel leaves, very finely chopped
- 1 small shallot, finely minced
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- Pinch of salt
Instructions:
- Mix all ingredients thoroughly
- Shape into a log using plastic wrap
- Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before using
- Slice and use on grilled fish, steak, or warm bread
Propagation and Maintenance
Division
Division is the easiest way to propagate established sorrel plants:
- Dig up the entire clump in early spring or fall
- Cut the rootball into sections, ensuring each has both roots and shoots
- Replant sections at the same depth as the original plant
- Water thoroughly and keep soil moist until new growth appears
Seed Saving
To save sorrel seeds for future planting:
- Allow a few stalks to flower and set seed
- Wait until seed heads turn reddish-brown
- Cut stalks and place in paper bag to dry completely
- Shake or crush to release seeds
- Store in cool, dry place in paper envelope
- Seeds remain viable for 3-4 years
Rejuvenating Older Plants
Sorrel plants become less productive after 3-4 years and benefit from rejuvenation:
- Divide plants as described above
- Add fresh compost to planting area
- Replant only the healthiest sections
- Cut back any remaining old growth to encourage fresh leaves
Preventing Invasiveness
While not typically aggressive, sorrel can self-seed in ideal conditions:
- Remove flower stalks before seed formation
- Apply mulch to suppress volunteer seedlings
- Plant in containers if concerned about spreading
- Choose French sorrel for more contained growth
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Frequently Asked Questions
- Q: Can I grow sorrel indoors year-round?
A: Yes, sorrel can grow indoors in a sunny window or under grow lights. Use a deep container with good drainage and rotate regularly for even growth.
- Q: Is sorrel frost-hardy?
A: Yes, established sorrel plants are very cold tolerant, surviving down to zone 3 (-40°F). The foliage may die back in winter but will regrow from the roots in spring.
- Q: Why does my sorrel taste bitter?
A: Bitterness often develops when plants flower or during hot weather. Remove flower stalks promptly and harvest younger leaves. In hot weather, provide partial shade.
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- Q: How much sorrel should I plant for a family?
A: Two to four plants should provide plenty of sorrel for a family of four. Since it’s a perennial that comes back year after year, start small and add more if needed.
- Q: Can I eat sorrel if I have kidney problems?
A: Consult your doctor before eating sorrel if you have kidney issues, as the oxalic acid content may be problematic for some conditions.
- Q: What’s the difference between sorrel and dock?
A: They’re related plants in the Rumex genus. Garden sorrel is cultivated for its edible leaves, while docks are often considered weeds. Curly dock (Rumex crispus) is edible but more bitter than garden sorrel.
Conclusion
Sorrel is one of those wonderful plants that rewards gardeners with minimal effort. Its early spring emergence provides fresh greens when the garden is just waking up, and its perennial nature means you can enjoy its tangy leaves for years with proper care.
Whether you’re adding it to your herb garden, vegetable plot, or ornamental border, sorrel’s versatility in both the garden and the kitchen makes it a valuable addition. From classic French sorrel soup to modern applications like sorrel pesto or butter, this herb’s distinctive lemony flavor adds brightness to countless dishes.
As you plan your garden this season, consider giving this often-overlooked perennial a place. Its easy-growing nature, nutritional benefits, and culinary versatility make sorrel a garden plant worth growing.
Happy gardening and bon appétit!
