Rumex alpinus aka Alpine Dock

Rumex alpinus is a perennial dock in the Polygonaceae family. Common names include monk's rhubarb and mountain rhubarb. Its native range spans central and southern Europe to western Iran. It also reaches Ukraine and grows in cold upland climates. It occurs beside streams, along roads, and near homes in hills. Other sites include farmland, waste ground, and damp river margins.

This leafy plant forms clumps and spreads through creeping rhizomes. Garden plants reach 5–8 feet [1.5–2.5 metres] tall. The RHS describes about 6.6 feet [2 metres] as usual. Listed spread reaches 1.6 feet [0.5 metres], though roots can extend colonies. Its large, oval leaves are green and deciduous. Tall, upright stems carry pinkish-green flowers in July. The broad leaves give it a bold form in planting.

Grow it in sun or partial shade with moist, well-drained soil. It accepts chalk, clay, loam, and sand. The RHS lists neutral and alkaline soil as suitable. Plants can grow in exposed sites or sheltered spots. The RHS gives it a UK hardiness rating of H4. Plants For A Future lists USDA zones 4–8. The RHS reports that plants reach full size within one year. It suggests this species for wildflower meadows. Other listed settings include growing beds and sunny woodland edges.

Plants set seed freely and also spread from their roots. This can make them hard to contain or remove. Seed offers a means of propagation, and plants need no pruning. Slugs and aphids may attack them, but diseases seldom cause trouble. These spreading habits matter when choosing a garden site. Even with a modest listed spread, plants may not stay put.

The leaves have a sharp, lemon-like taste. They can be eaten raw, cooked, or dried for later use. Leaves suit autumn and spring meals but may taste bitter in summer. Eat only small amounts, as they can contain much oxalic acid. Cooking lowers this acid, which can reduce the body's calcium uptake. People prone to kidney stones, gout, or arthritis should take care. Large amounts can harm both people and pets. The roots have recorded medicinal uses as an astringent and laxative. They also yield green, brown, and grey dyes without a mordant.