The Biology of Canadian Weeds. 149. Rumex acetosella L.

Abstract

Stopps, G. J., White, S. N., Clements, D. R. and Upadhyaya, M. K. 2011. The Biology of Canadian weeds. 149. Rumex acetosella L. Can. J. Plant Sci. 91: 1037–1052. Rumex acetosella L., sheep sorrel, is a perennial herb originating from Europe and southwestern Asia, now found in at least 70 countries worldwide. A common weed, it appears in grasslands, pastures, rangelands, waste areas, and along roadsides across North America. It frequently occurs as a weed in lowbush blueberry fields in Atlantic Canada, particularly in Nova Scotia. Rumex acetosella thrives on poor, acidic, and disturbed soils across a broad range of climatic conditions. A persistent seed bank and vegetative reproduction from creeping roots contribute to the ability of R. acetosella to tolerate various methods of control including certain herbicides, fire, and tillage. Tart-tasting leaves, rich in vitamin C have led to the use of R. acetosella in European and North American cultures as both a source of food and a component of herbal medicines. Excessive consumption of the leaves, which contain oxalic acid, can be poisonous to horses and sheep. In addition, R. acetosella is a possible host of the tomato spotted wilt virus, which is detrimental to a variety of vegetable crops.