Sheep’s Sorrel (Rumex acetosella) is a hardy, low-growing perennial native to the UK, valued for its delicate red-tinged flower spikes and its ability to thrive in poor, acidic, and dry soils. With its distinctive arrow-shaped leaves and spreading habit, it’s a resilient species often used in wildflower meadows, heathland restoration, and upland planting schemes.
Ideal for free-draining, nutrient-poor environments, Sheep’s Sorrel is particularly well-suited to erosion control, sandy banks, or dry grassland areas where other species may struggle. It supports biodiversity by providing cover and food for invertebrates and plays an important role in soil health and stabilisation.
Features & Benefits
Tough, low-growing perennial for challenging soils
Tolerates acidic, sandy, or nutrient-poor conditions
Subtle red flower spikes add texture and diversity
Native UK species ideal for upland or heathland projects
Supports invertebrates and aids in soil stabilisation
Latin Name:
Rumex acetosella
Flowering Time:
May – August
Flowering Height:
10 – 40 cm
Life Cycle:
Perennial
Wildflower Seed Approximate Sowing Rate:
1kg per acre (2.5kg per hectare)
Sowing Times:
Spring (March – May) or Autumn (August – October)
How to Sow & Preparation
Select a dry, free-draining site with acidic or sandy soils.
Clear any existing vegetation and prepare a fine seedbed by lightly cultivating the soil.
Broadcast the seed evenly by hand or using a spreader.
Roll or lightly tread the area to press the seed into the soil surface—do not bury.
Water if dry during establishment, but once established, Sheep’s Sorrel requires minimal maintenance.
About John Chambers Wildflower Seeds
John Chambers Wildflower Seeds has been a trusted supplier of native UK wildflower seeds for over 35 years. Known for its high-quality, locally sourced seed and outstanding customer service, John Chambers provides ecological solutions for landscape contractors, local authorities, and conservationists focused on creating sustainable, biodiverse landscapes.

Attribute Detail
Latin Name Rumex acetosella
Flowering Time May – August
Flowering Height 10 – 40 cm
Life Cycle Perennial
Sowing Rate 1kg per acre (2.5kg per hectare)
Sowing Period Spring or Autumn
Preferred Conditions Dry, sandy or acidic soils; full sun to light shade
Pollinator Friendly Moderate
Minimum Order Quantity 100g
Ideal For Heathland, uplands, erosion control, poor soils