French Sorrel

Product code : NOR-GR02

French sorrel is a hardy perennial with large, bright green, very acidic leaves with a delicately lemony taste. Ideal for enhancing your soups, salads, or fish dishes, this plant is prized for its unique flavor and versatility in the kitchen. It is easy to grow and returns every year, offering a generous harvest. This variety reaches 30 to 45 cm (11.8 to 17.7 in). The packet contains 100 seeds to start your planting. A herb garden becomes more useful when placed near a walkway or the kitchen. Group species that share similar moisture needs, and leave space around the clumps.
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Detailed plant guide
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Quantity
100 seeds
Exposure
Sun
Life cycle
Hardy perennial

Discover the plant

Common nameFrench Sorrel
FamilyPolygonaceae
GenusDock
Speciessorrel
CultivarFrench woman
TypeUntreated
Botanical nameSorrel

French Sorrel (Rumex acetosa). French sorrel is a hardy perennial with large, green leaves that are very tart, with a delicately lemony taste. Ideal for enhancing your soups, salads, or fish dishes, this plant is prized for its unique flavor and culinary versatility. It is easy to grow and returns every year, offering a generous harvest. This variety reaches 30 to 45 cm (11.8 to 17.7 in). For French Sorrel, the packet contains 100 seeds to start your planting. For French Sorrel, a herb garden corner becomes more useful when placed near a walkway or the kitchen.

Emergence generally takes 6 to 10 days in soil maintained at 21 °C (69.8 °F). The sowing schedule for this variety is as follows: outdoors: sow throughout the spring, in place, thinning every 15 or 20 cm, or transplanting the seedlings when they have 4 leaves. For French Sorrel, label the herbs at the time of sowing to distinguish species whose first leaves look similar. For French Sorrel, transplant the young seedlings without crushing their crowns and gradually give them more space under the light.

French sorrel is perfect for adding a touch of acidity and freshness to your dishes, while being easy to grow and long-lasting in the garden. Harvesting of the leaves begins 3 months after sowing and ends around the month of October, with the arrival of the first frosts. Pick them as needed by taking those on the outer edges. Choose ones that are deep green, with shiny leaves. Set aside yellow or limp leaves. Do not wait too long to consume them, as they lose their freshness quickly.

Photo de Oseille Française. Le visuel permet d'observer les contours, les teintes et la disposition des éléments présentés. Les détails de forme et les contrastes donnent un aperçu de l'apparence de cette plante ou de sa récolte. Cette photographie accompagne la variété nommée afin de l'identifier dans la sélection de semences.

Sowing guide

It all startswith a seed.

Spacing / density

25 cm between plants

Germination temperature

21 °C (69.8 °F)

Germination time

6 to 10 days

Sowing period

Outdoors: sow throughout the spring, directly in place, thinning every 15 or 20 cm, or transplanting the seedlings once they have 4 leaves.

Propagation

Sowing

Growing method

Germination generally takes 6 to 10 days in potting soil maintained at 21 °C (69.8 °F). The sowing calendar for this variety is as follows: Outdoors: sow throughout the spring, directly in place, thinning every 15 or 20 cm, or transplanting the seedlings once they have 4 leaves. To establish this variety, first choose a location that matches its exposure: sun. Indoors: well-drained, porous seed-starting soil is ideal to prevent overwatering. Outdoors: sorrel requires fertile, light, and humus-rich soil that stays cool to develop properly. It enjoys the sun in the spring, but prefers a semi-shaded and moist environment in the summer. If it is too exposed to the sun in summer, it will taste bitter. This variety benefits from soil that retains moisture during its growth; regular checks below the surface help to intervene before wilting while avoiding saturating the root ball. Plan for this variety's space in the garden bed by taking into account its height of 30 to 45 cm (11.8 to 17.7 in).

Soil and care

The right care,at the right time.

Watering

Water regularly to keep the soil moist, but not soggy. This variety thrives in soil that stays cool during growth; checking regularly beneath the surface helps you intervene before wilting occurs, while avoiding saturating the root ball. To plant this variety, first choose a location that matches its light requirements: full sun. Indoors: a well-drained, porous seed-starting mix is ideal to prevent overwatering.

Soil type

Water regularly to keep the soil moist, but do not overwater. To plant this variety, first choose a location that matches its exposure requirements: sun. Indoors: a well-drained, porous seed-starting mix is ideal to prevent overwatering. Outdoors: sorrel needs fertile, light, and humus-rich soil that remains cool to grow well. For French Sorrel, keep the labeled packet to track cultivar-specific data throughout the season.

Fertilization

To plant this variety, first choose a location that matches its sun exposure needs. Indoors: a well-drained, porous seed-starting mix is ideal to prevent overwatering. Outdoors: sorrel requires fertile, light, and humus-rich soil that remains moist to thrive. It enjoys the sun in the spring, but prefers a partially shaded and humid environment in the summer.

Moisture

Cool to moist soil, with good drainage

Seasonal care

Water regularly to keep the soil moist, but not soggy. Prune the flower stalks to prolong leaf production. After weeding a few times, spread a thick layer of mulch to limit weed growth, at least initially. Its rapid growth will "do the rest" afterwards. Cut back flower stalks as they appear to encourage the growth of new, tender leaves. Every 3 years, divide your sorrel plants to rejuvenate them. Remember that sorrel is a perennial; you will find it in the same spot the following spring! For those in containers, just remember to water and add a little compost. Be sure to protect the container well from frost during the winter. Germination generally takes 6 to 10 days in potting soil kept at 21°C (69.8°F). The sowing schedule for this variety is as follows: outdoors: sow throughout the spring, directly in the ground, thinning to every 15 or 20 cm, or transplanting the seedlings once they have 4 leaves. This variety benefits from soil that stays cool while growing; checking regularly below the surface helps to intervene before wilting while avoiding saturation of the root ball. Harvesting of the leaves begins 3 months after sowing and ends around October, with the arrival of the first frosts.

Container growing

A garden,within reach.

Recommended pot size

Drained container, allowing the plant to spread 20-25 cm (7.9-9.8 in.).
The foliage of this variety occupies about 20 to 25 cm (7.9 to 9.8 in); leave this width available around the container instead of crowding several plants against its edge. Place the container for this variety in this exposure: sun, checking the light received throughout the day. Germination generally takes 6 to 10 days in soil kept at 21 °C (69.8 °F). The sowing calendar for this variety is as follows: outdoors: sow throughout the spring, in place, thinning every 15 or 20 cm, or transplanting the plants when they have 4 leaves. To plant this variety, first choose a location corresponding to its exposure: sun. Indoors: a well-drained and porous seed-starting mix is ideal to prevent overwatering. Outdoors: sorrel needs fertile, light, and humus-rich soil that remains cool to develop well. It enjoys the sun in the spring, but it prefers a semi-shaded and humid environment in the summer. If it is too exposed to the sun in the summer, it will taste bitter. For French Sorrel, keep the identified packet to track the data specific to the cultivar throughout the season.
Photo de Oseille Française. Le visuel permet d'observer les contours, les teintes et la disposition des éléments présentés. Les détails de forme et les contrastes donnent un aperçu de l'apparence de cette plante ou de sa récolte. Cette photographie accompagne la variété nommée afin de l'identifier dans la sélection de semences.

Bloom and dimensions

Its place,in your garden.

Mature height

30 to 45 cm (11.8 to 17.7 in.)

Width / spread

20 to 25 cm (7.9 to 9.8 in)

Harvest

Harvest aromatic parts as needed without completely stripping the plant. Use a clean tool for a precise cut.
Photo de Oseille Française. Le visuel permet d'observer les contours, les teintes et la disposition des éléments présentés. Les détails de forme et les contrastes donnent un aperçu de l'apparence de cette plante ou de sa récolte. Cette photographie accompagne la variété nommée afin de l'identifier dans la sélection de semences.

Garden associations

In goodcompany.

Companion plants

Plan the placement of this variety in the garden bed, taking into account its height of 30 to 45 cm (11.8 to 17.7 in). When designing the planting, allow 20 to 25 cm (7.9 to 9.8 in) of spread for each plant of this variety. When planting this variety, the spacing to use is 25 cm between plants. Space them 15 cm apart in the row and 25 cm between rows. For cultivation on a balcony or patio, transplant into a container at least 30 cm in diameter.

Recipe idea

From the gardento your plate.

Edible parts

Aromatic leaves
Recipe idea for your French sorrel harvest. Prepare an herb butter to serve with hot vegetables. Let a small amount of butter soften, then incorporate finely chopped fresh leaves. Remove the tough stems before mincing the foliage and start with a small amount to gauge the aromatic intensity. Add a little lemon zest and pepper; only add salt if the butter is unsalted. Mix with a fork, place in a small ramekin, and refrigerate to firm up. Melt a small knob over hot potatoes, cooked corn, or roasted carrots just before serving. The amount of herbs can be adjusted according to the desired flavor: a small touch is often enough to start. The tender leaves should be chopped with a knife without being crushed for too long. Prepare a small portion of herb butter and keep it cold in a sealed container. You can also freeze small portions to add directly to hot vegetables.

Frequently asked questions

Your questions,answered.

When to start French Sorrel seeds?
Emergence generally takes 6 to 10 days in potting soil maintained at 21 °C (69.8 °F). The sowing calendar for this variety is as follows: outdoors: sow throughout the spring, directly in the ground, thinning every 15 or 20 cm, or transplanting the seedlings when they have 4 leaves. Label the herbs as soon as they are sown to distinguish species whose first leaves look similar. Transplant the young plants without crushing their collars and gradually give them more space under the light. Wait until the roots have occupied their root ball before planting.
What's a good location for Oseille Française?
To plant this variety, first choose a location that matches its sun exposure requirements. Indoors: a well-drained, porous seed-starting mix is ideal to prevent overwatering. Outdoors: sorrel requires fertile, light, and humus-rich soil that stays moist to develop well. It enjoys the sun in spring, but prefers a partially shaded and moist environment in summer. If it is too exposed to the sun in summer, it will taste bitter. Plan the placement of this variety in the garden bed by taking into account its height of 30 to 45 cm (11.8 to 17.7 in).
How to water French Sorrel during its growth?
This variety thrives in soil that stays cool during its growth; regular checks beneath the surface help you intervene before wilting occurs, while avoiding waterlogging the root ball. After hoeing a few times, spread a thick layer of mulch to limit weed growth, at least initially. Its very rapid growth will "do the rest" afterwards. Cut off flower stalks as they appear to encourage the production of new, tender leaves. Every 3 years, divide your sorrel plants to rejuvenate them. Remember that sorrel is a perennial; you will find it in the same spot the following spring! For those in containers, just remember to water it and add a little compost. Be sure to protect the container well from frost during the winter.
What care should French Sorrel receive throughout the season?
After some weeding, spread a thick layer of mulch to limit the growth of weeds, at least in the beginning. Its very rapid growth will "do the rest" afterwards. Cut off the flower stalks as they appear to encourage the production of new, tender leaves. Every 3 years, divide your sorrel plants to rejuvenate them. Remember that sorrel is a perennial; you will find it in the same spot the following spring! For those in containers, just remember to water them and add a little compost. Be sure to protect the container well against frost during the winter.
How to use the French sorrel harvest?
Leaf harvesting begins 3 months after sowing and ends around October, with the arrival of the first frosts. Pick them as needed by taking those from the outer edges. Choose ones that are deep green with glossy leaves. Discard any yellow or soft leaves. Do not wait too long to consume them, as they quickly lose their freshness. They can be kept for two to three days in a perforated plastic bag. You can also freeze the leaves after washing and drying them thoroughly. Allow space for this variety in the garden bed, keeping in mind its height of 30 to 45 cm (11.8 to 17.7 in).