Common Sorrel (Rumex acetosa) - Wildlife-Friendly Native (Peat-Free Super Plugs & 9cm Pots)

A classic of meadows, pastures and sunny banks, Common Sorrel brings gentle structure and a true “wild” feel. Its green-red flower wands are pollinated by the wind, so it’s not one for bees, but it more than earns its place as a larval host plant for the Small Copper (Lycaena phlaeas) and other invertebrates. Sorrel’s tufts of arrow-shaped leaves also make tidy meadow clumps, knitting happily with grasses and low wildflowers.

Where it thrives:

• Sun to light dappled shade

• Moist, well-drained soils; happiest on neutral to slightly acidic ground

• Great in meadow lawns, orchard edges, sunny borders, or larger planters

Planting & care:
Plant 20-30 cm apart in small groups. Water in and keep just moist while roots take. It may self-seed; cut spent stems if you want to limit drift. In meadow lawns, let foliage die back naturally before the first cut to feed next year’s growth.

Edible, with an honest note:
The leaves have a clean, lemony bite - traditionally used in salads and sauces. Like many sorrels they contain oxalic acid, so enjoy in moderation; people with kidney stone issues should avoid large amounts.

Joel says…
“For a proper meadow feel that supports butterflies, sorrel is a staple. It won’t feed bees, but it feeds the food chain - and that’s the point. Tuck it into sunny meadow edges and let it mingle with grasses and low wildflowers. As always, peat-free, pesticide-free and raring to go.”

Although there is a minimum order requirement of 8 plugs when purchasing specific species, if selecting our Super Plug Bespoke Pack, you can select up to 4 species of your choice from our given list to make up a 16 pack (or greater), allowing you a wider choice of plug species if 8 of one is too many. Find the link to our Super Plug Bespoke Pack here!

These SUPER PLUG specimens are available in 8 pack, 16 pack, 32 pack and 48 pack. The 9CM POTS are available individually.

They're both ready to be shipped to you in a few days.

If you need ANY advice on planting or suitable plants for a specific area, please remember that as a Wild Your Garden customer you're entitled to free professional and tailored advice from our founder, Joel.