Rumex gmelinii, commonly known as Gmelin’s Sorrel or Gmelin’s Dock, is a perennial herb native to Siberia, Mongolia, and China. It is a perennial and grows primarily in the temperate biome.e. It thrives in these habitats, often on moist, nutrient-rich clay soils. This species typically grows to a height of 1-3 feet (0.3-0.9 meters) and features lance-shaped leaves with a slightly wavy margin. The flowers are small, green or brown, and form in clusters on tall, erect stems, blooming in the summer. While the flowers are not particularly showy, they can add a subtle charm to naturalistic plantings.

Gmelin’s Sorrel is valued for its ease of maintenance and its ability to thrive in wet conditions, making it suitable for rain gardens, wetland restoration projects, and as a component of riparian buffers. It is also used in traditional medicine and as a culinary herb in some cultures, although it should be consumed in moderation due to the presence of oxalic acid. In cultivation, it prefers full sun to part shade and can tolerate a range of soil types, including clay and loam, provided they are medium to poorly drained. It requires medium to high amounts of water, reflecting its natural affinity for moist environments. Gardeners should be cautious, as Rumex gmelinii can spread outside its native range, spreading by seed and rhizome to form dense stands that may outcompete native vegetation.CC BY-SA 4.0