Mountain Sorrel (Oxyria digyna)

Family: Polygonaceae | Edibility: Edible (3/5)

Oxyria digyna is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.5 m (1ft 8in) by 0.3 m (1ft). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 2 and is not frost tender. It is in flower from June to August, and the seeds ripen from July to August. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Wind. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Leaves

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Spring

Flavor & Culinary Uses

taste and an excellent potherb. — Leaves - raw or cooked.; A pleasing acid taste and an excellent potherb.; A very nice addition to salads.; The leaves can be fermented into a sauerkraut for winter use.

Habitat & North American Range

Damp rocky places on mountains, especially by streams, avoiding acid soils. Locally common on enriched soils below bird roosts. (Zone 2, Zone 3, Zone 4, Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8)