Rumex crispus, commonly known as Curly Dock, is a perennial herb native to Europe and Western Asia, often found in disturbed soils of fields, roadsides, and waste areas. It typically grows up to 5 feet high and is characterized by its long taproot, smooth leaves with wavy or curled edges, and a reddish-green stem. The plant blooms from May to July, producing greenish flowers that mature into shiny brown seeds encased in the calyx, which are easily spread by wind and water. Curly Dock is known for its hardiness and ability to thrive in a variety of soil conditions, including those with poor fertility.

Curly Dock is valued for its medicinal properties, as it has been used traditionally to treat various ailments. In cultivation, it requires minimal care, tolerating both drought and waterlogged soils, and can grow in full sun to part shade. However, it is not commonly cultivated in gardens due to its invasive nature and potential to outcompete native vegetation. Gardeners should be cautious of its aggressive self-seeding and consider its potential invasiveness before planting.CC BY-SA 4.0