Rumex conglomeratus aka Green Dock

Taxonomy

Rumex conglomeratus, also known as clustered dock and sharp dock, is a plant belonging to the Polygonaceae family. It can be an annual, biennial, or perennial plant that grows up to 1 meter high. It is native to Europe, Asia, and North Africa, but has also been introduced to North America. This species prefers moist soil and can grow in light, medium, and heavy soils with a pH range of acidic, neutral, and basic. It can grow in semi-shade or no shade. However, it is important to note that this plant may be poisonous. For controlling single plants of Clustered Dock, deep hoeing or grubbing can be effective. For larger infestations, a combination of cultivation and herbicides is recommended. Slashing and mowing are not effective, and in pastures, the spray/graze technique can be used to reduce infestation. Additionally, Clustered Dock has been identified as a target for biological control through a cross-jurisdictional government process, allowing activities to develop effective biological controls. On the other hand, Clustered Dock can also be grown as a rare houseplant that thrives with regular watering and direct light within 1 foot of a window. It prefers well-draining soil and does not require added fertilizers if repotted each time it doubles in size.

Common names

Green Dock, Clustered Dock, Clustered Green Dock

How to care for Green Dock

Difficulty

Green Dock is a low-maintenance plant that requires minimal attention, making it an excellent choice for beginners.

Water

Green Dock should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Soil

Green Dock loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.

Lighting

Green Dock requires abundant, bright and direct light. Placing it less than one foot from a window is the best way to make sure the plant receives enough light to survive and thrive. Depending on your region, however, the current weather can affect the placement of the plant in your home. For example, in some areas the sun may be too direct and intense, so it's best to place it farther away from the window. You may also need to adjust your placement according to the season as the sunlight can change intensity over the course of the year. If you live in a region with significant temperature fluctuations, such as a desert, you may need to place the plant a bit farther away from the window to avoid extreme heat or cold. With some care and attention, your Green Dock will be sure to bring you many years of beauty and enjoyment.

Toxicity

Ploi does not possess verified information regarding the toxicity of this particular plant. In the event that you, a member of your family, or a pet ingests plant material with an unclear toxicity level, it is highly recommended to seek the advice of a medical professional.

Fertilizer

The Green Dock should be transferred to a new pot once it has increased in size two-fold, or on an annual basis, whichever occurs earlier. Replacing the soil with fresh potting soil containing all the necessary nutrients, is sufficient enough to support the growth of the plant, thus avoiding the need to use fertilizer. It's important to note that plants derive their energy from the sun and not fertilizer.

Region of origin

Green Dock’s native range is Europe, including Britain, from Scandanavia south and east to N. Africa, W. Asia.


More info:
Wikipedia