Red-Veined Sorrel is a highly decorative and edible perennial leaf plant, prized for its bold red veining and fresh, citrus-like flavour. Popular with gardeners and chefs. 
 
Easy to grow and tolerant of a wide range of soil types, red-veined sorrel thrives in full sun to part shade and prefers consistently moist, well-drained soil. Regular harvesting encourages lush, continuous growth, with young leaves offering the best texture and flavour. Plants can be cut repeatedly from spring through autumn, making this an excellent cut-and-come-again crop.
 
As well as its culinary uses — fresh in salads, as a garnish, or lightly wilted — red-veined sorrel is often grown as an edible ornamental, adding colour and structure to mixed plantings. Hardy and dependable, it will return year after year with minimal maintenance.
 
Ideal for gardeners looking to grow edible leaves with visual impact, red-veined sorrel is a low-effort, high-reward addition to any productive garden.
 
When to Sow: Mar - Sep
 
HOW TO SOW SORREL:
Sow thinly in trays or direct sow outdoors. Cover only  lightly with compost or vermiculite, as light aids germination. Keep evenly moist and cool. Thin seedlings early to avoid overcrowding.
Mar–Jun outdoors
Feb–Sep under cover (polytunnel, greenhouse, cold frame)
 
Classification: Hardy Perennial
Expert Level:  Easy to Grow
Germination Time: 7–14 days
Harvest Time: Apr–Oct
 
Site: Full sun / Part shade
Soil Type: Loam / Sandy loam / Clay (if well improved)
Soil Acidity: Neutral to slightly acidic
Moisture: Well drained
Care: Water regularly, especially in dry weather. Mulch to retain moisture. Shade from strong summer sun helps keep leaves tender and prevents bolting.
Use: Edible — young leaves used fresh in salads, garnishes, or lightly cooked. Sharp, lemony flavour. Best harvested young.
Harvesting: Cut leaves regularly when young and tender to encourage continuous growth. Avoid letting plants flower if grown for leaf quality.
 
Days to Maturity:  35-50 Days
Feed: Light nitrogen feed or rich compost to encourage leafy growth
Plant Spacing:  20-30cm