Mexican dock (Rumex mexicanus)
At a glance
- Lifecycle
- Perennial (hardy)
- Exposure
- Full sun
Cultivation
Succeeds in most soils, preferring a moist moderately fertile well-drained soil in a sunny position. Plants succeed outdoors at Cambridge Botanical gardens and are growing well in Cornwall[K].
Propagation
Seed - sow spring in a cold frame. When they are large enough to handle, prick the seedlings out into individual pots and plant them out in the summer. Division in spring.
Edible uses
Young leaves - cooked. Seed - cooked or ground into a powder and used for making gruel or added to cereal flours and used for making bread. The seed is rather small and fiddly to harvest.
Medicinal uses
An infusion of the leaves has been taken by childless women to help them become pregnant. A strong infusion of the root has been used to help a woman become pregnant. An infusion of the leaves has been used in the treatment of sore throats. A decoction of the white root has been used to regulate the menstrual cycle. There is a suggestion that it was used to facilitate an abortion. A decoction of the red root has been used to treat fevers. A poultice of the crushed root has been used to treat burns. A decoction of the plant has been used to treat intestinal disorders and liver complaints.
Material uses
The dried, crushed roots have been used as a tinder. Although no specific mention has been made for this species, dark green to brown and dark grey dyes can be obtained from the roots of many species in this genus, They do not need a mordant.
Habitat
Rich soils, occasionally brackish.
Native range
Western N. America - Newfoundland to British Columbia, south to Maine, Texas and Mexico.