Sorrel

Sorrel is an easy-to-grow perennial herb with lush green foliage. It is similar in taste to kiwi fruit and sour, wild strawberries. Historically it was used by sailors to ward off scurvy on long voyages due to its high vitamin C content. Today it has a range of uses around the house and in the kitchen.

Planting tips :

• Sow sorrel seeds in a sunny spot in which the soil has been deeply dug up and well composted.
• The plant grows to a height and width of about 60cm, so keep this in mind when sowing.
• Water the area twice a week and pick leaves frequently as soon as the plant is well established.

Uses :

• Sorrel is a common ingredient in soups and sauces to which it lends a sour, tangy flavour.
• Sorrel juice, crushed leaves and stems can be used to remove mould, rust and stains. Sorrel juice will also bleach fabric stains like red wine and grass.
• Add sorrel leaves to your compost heap – the tannins in the leaves help the compost to break down quickly.