This gorgeous floral extravaganza usually doesn't get a second look. If anything it's the leaves that people seek out at the pathside. For this is Dock, a handy resource when we've been nettled and a very common inhabitant of wasteland and disturbed ground. Odd how the value of plants is often dictated by how common it is and whether it gets weed status in our lawns and gardens.
Dock flowers can superbly complement the other wild plants beside many a path. The coarseness of the leaves may not be so attractive but that's true of many of the more useful species. But Dock's close relative has a more complete beauty - my subjective view. That relative is the amazing Common Sorrel. This is present in large numbers setting up a great backdrop for colourful flowers like Ragged Robin, Meadow Buttercup and Marsh Orchid along with tall flowering grasses. All is a treat for the eye. Hundreds of tiny flowers gradually change colour through the season.
Leaves are arrow shaped making it very easy to distinguish from its cousin.
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