Rumex thyrsiflorus, commonly known as compact dock or thyrse sorrel, is a perennial herb that is native to a variety of habitats across Europe, including meadows, grasslands, and open woodlands. It often grows in areas with disturbed soil, such as fields and roadsides. This species typically resembles common sorrel (Rumex acetosa) and can be identified by its upright growth habit and elongated clusters of reddish-green flowers that bloom in the summer months. The plant can reach a height of up to 100 cm (39 inches), and its leaves are lance-shaped with a slightly wavy margin.

Compact dock is valued for its hardiness and adaptability to different soil types, which makes it a resilient addition to wildflower meadows and naturalistic plantings. It is also used in traditional medicine and as a culinary herb, although it is less common than its relative, common sorrel. In cultivation, Rumex thyrsiflorus prefers full sun to partial shade and can tolerate a range of soil conditions, though it thrives in moist, well-drained soils. While it is not particularly demanding in terms of maintenance, gardeners should be aware of its potential to spread if conditions are favorable.CC BY-SA 4.0