Bloody Dock

Unique ornamental foliage plant prized for long green leaves accented with deep red and purple veining. Also known as red-veined dock or wood dock. Easy to grow, highly versatile bog plant that adds bold color and texture to water gardens. Also serves as edible herb with tangy, spinach-like flavor suitable for fresh salads. Medium-green, oblong to lance-shaped leaves with striking red veins. Produces erect stems of tiny, star-shaped flowers that emerge green in summer and mature to reddish-brown, followed by dark brown fruit.

A plant with striking characteristics.

Plant in moist, alkaline soil in part sun to shade. Remove flower stalks occasionally to prevent aggressive self-seeding and invasiveness. Very easy to maintain and low-care. Can grow in the garden if kept consistently watered. Prefers moist to wet soils. Grows 8 to 18 inches tall depending on variety, with similar spread. Tolerates a wide range of soil types and pH levels. Young leaves are edible and can be used like spinach, though they become more bitter with age. Very resilient and not known to be susceptible to pests or diseases.

This plant thrives under the following conditions:

Ornamental foliage plant (edible leaves)