Rumex patientia, commonly known as patience dock or monk’s rhubarb, is an herbaceous perennial plant native to Europe and parts of Asia, often found in a variety of habitats including meadows, riverbanks, and roadsides. This species typically grows to a height of 3-4 feet (0.9-1.2 meters) with a similar spread. The plant features large, broad leaves that are edible and have a slightly acidic taste, similar to sorrel. The greenish flowers are small and not particularly showy, blooming in the summer months.

Patience dock is valued for its edible leaves, which are rich in vitamins and minerals. It is cultivated in Southern Europe for its leaves, which are used in culinary dishes such as pies and broths. In the garden, it requires minimal maintenance and can grow in a variety of soil types, though it prefers moist, well-drained soils. It thrives in full sun to part shade. While not commonly used ornamentally, it can serve as a leafy green addition to vegetable gardens or as a naturalized plant in wildflower meadows. Gardeners should be aware that Rumex patientia can spread aggressively by seed and may become invasive outside its native range.CC BY-SA 4.0