French sorrel (Rumex scutatus) may not be one of the herbs found down the spice aisle at your local supermarket, but it has a long history of use. It gives a citrus-like flavor to many types of dishes. This perennial can be used fresh or in cooking. It may also grow like a weed in the right conditions. The French sorrel herb plant might be just the thing to complete your kitchen herb garden.
What is French Sorrel?
French sorrel herbs are members of the Buckwheat family. Most gardeners grow French sorrel to use fresh in a variety of recipes. It is used in a similar manner to spinach but has a highly acidic taste that can overwhelm other flavors. It is also high in oxalic acid and, therefore, used sparingly by those that are bothered by the compound.
The part of the plant used in cooking are the long, lance-shaped leaves. They are bright green and 6 to 12 inches (15-31 cm.) long. The French sorrel herb produces a rosette of the shiny leaves which radiate out from the center. Young leaves are slightly wrinkled and will have less acidity and bitterness than larger, older leaves.
If you don't intervene, the plant will produce a flower stalk with small green flowers that age to reddish brown. You can use this type of sorrel herb plant in soups, stews, salads, or even make a delicious pesto from the leaves.
How to Grow French Sorrel
Nurseries near you may offer the plant for purchase or you could try and start it from seed. Direct sow in early spring in a prepared bed with full sun. Incorporate plenty of organic matter. Cover seed with an inch (2.5 cm.) of moist soil.
Germination is rapid, within a week. Thin the seedlings to at least 10 inches (25 cm.) apart. Spread mulch around the root zones of plants and keep them moderately moist.
You can cut leaves at any time and more will grow. The small leaves of these herbs are the most tender and have the best flavor.
Caring for French Sorrel
Few pests or disease problems plague this herb but it does occasionally happen. Use slug bait or copper tape to repel slugs and snails. Leaf miners, aphids, and flea beetles may cause some damage. Several larval insects will possibly attack leaves. Pyrethrins or neem oil will help contain any infestations.
Divide this perennial every three to four years. Older plants tend to have bitter leaves but sowing every three years with new plants will keep a continuous supply of this tasty herb. Cut off flower stalks as they form to prevent the plant from bolting and reducing leaf production.
-
How To Make Plantable Seed Greeting Cards: Share The Joy Of Growing This Holiday SeasonGet creative making holiday cards using plantable seed paper, and give the memorable gift of growing flowers that will delight recipients for months on end.
-
Want To Grow Four Season Containers? Try These 6 Best Plants For Pots All Year RoundAfter reliable container gardening options that serve you across all four seasons? You’ve come to the right place, as we present the best plants for pots all year round
-
Sorrel Plant Uses – Tips On Using Sorrel Herbs In CookingSorrel is an herb commonly used throughout the world. There are a number of uses in the kitchen for sorrel herb plants. It can be eaten fresh or cooked and has a bright, lemony tang. To learn more about cooking with sorrel, click the following article.
-
Bloody Dock Care: How To Grow Red Veined Sorrel PlantsHave you ever heard of the plant with the name bloody dock (also known as red veined sorrel)? What is red veined sorrel? If you’re interested in learning more or even growing red veined sorrel in your garden bed, click on the following article.
-
Bugs That Eat Sorrel: Learn About Sorrel Plant PestsSorrel is an interesting herb that can be considered a vegetable or leafy green. One issue you may face growing sorrel is that of pests. If you would like to know about the typical pests of sorrel and how to manage them, click the following article.
-
Different Types Of Sorrel – Learn About Common Sorrel VarietiesSorrel is a perennial herb. It can be grown for its woodland blossoms or specifically for use in recipes. If you want to add something new to your garden, click on the following article for sorrel variety information and growing tips.
-
Using Sorrel Herbs – How To Prepare Sorrel PlantsSorrel is a lesser used herb that at one time was a tremendously popular cooking ingredient. It is once again finding its place amongst foodies, and with good reason. Interested in cooking with sorrel? Click here to learn how to prepare sorrel herb plants.
-
Sorrel In A Container – How To Care For Potted Sorrel PlantsYummy sorrel is an easy leafy green to grow. It is so easy you can even grow sorrel in a container. The lemony, tart leaves will be easy to access in a pot just outside the door, providing variety in the salad bowl and plenty of nutrients. Click here to learn more.
-
Separating Sorrel Plants: Learn About Dividing Garden SorrelDo you need to split sorrel? Large clumps can weaken and become less attractive in time, but dividing garden sorrel every so often in spring or early summer can revive and rejuvenate a tired plant. Learn more about sorrel plant division in this article.
-
Sorrel Plant: How To Grow SorrelThe sorrel herb is a tangy, lemony flavored plant. The herb is widely used in French cuisine but not as well known in the U.S. Find out more about growing and using this herb in your garden by reading this article.
