Docks (or Rumex)
often go unnoticed as a component of meadow flora. Some species like curled
dock (Rumex crispus) and broad-leaved
dock (Rumex obtusifolius) are considered
undesirable in all but the edge of meadows as they can be indicators of poor
sward condition and less than ideal management – they readily colonise areas of
bare ground created by over-grazing or compaction and reduce the quality of
hay.
Wood dock (Rumex
sanguineus) as the name suggests, can often be found at the edge of meadows
growing in the shade of hedgerows
Common sorrel (Rumex
acetosa) is the most typical meadow dock and is very much part of the open hay
sward. Its diminutive cousin, sheep’s sorrel (Rumex acetosella) occurs on drought prone grasslands and
heathlands.
At first glance, docks are rather too green or brown to
readily catch the eye, but at certain times of year and when looked at in
close-up, they really are quite fascinating.
As the seeds ripen they slowly flush from green to red to a
rich burnt umber – almost giving the appearance of going rusty. The ‘red seed ’phase
is particularly obvious in common sorrel and sheep’s sorrel, both of which can
turn a meadow or heathland scarlet in early summer. The seeds of common sorrel
are almost translucent hanging like strings of lanterns amongst the grass.
Each species of dock has unique shape and form of fruit.
When looked at closely through a lens the ‘architecture’ of the fruit is astonishingly
intricate. Some resemble shield bugs or trilobites whilst others look like a
green and red fried egg on a string!
So next time you see a dock - take a moment to 'ruminate' on Rumex!
What a contrast the weather has been this year compared to last for haymaking.
