Mystery: Wanted Plant ID
My son-in-law is missing eating leaves of a plant that he grew up with. His mom doesn't remember the plant and he only has a description and a picture in his mind, which of course, nobody else can see. He would like that plant again.
Here is what I have:
It was planted in a flower bed, not far from some steps.
It had sour leaves that tasted best (sour) in mid summer, but strange before & after.
The plant was approximately 1' high & 3' wide. The leaf was 4" long and 4" wide. The leaves were possibly smooth edged, but that's debatable.
It never appeared to flower.
The stem & leaf were green.
It is hardy in zone 3b-4.
It appeared to be perennial, dying back each fall and coming back from the ground each spring.
My guess is that it is sorrel, otherwise known as "sour leaf" in some circles. It was commonly used by Mennonites and possibly other cultures in soups to give them a uniquely sour flavor. I still need to refresh my memory of what it looks like and see how it compares, so I'm going to do a search.
Anyone else have any other guesses?
Comments
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That is my first thought, too, @LaurieLovesLearning.
I checked but can't find a picture of the plant in my garden. It needs to be cut back at the moment. Its gone all leggy and has developed seed heads.
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Sorrell for sure.
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How are you guys? I agree it sounds like sorrel. I found this soup recipe with a picture. Maybe he'll remember it if he sees it.
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Hi Tave! 😄 I'm doing great.
Oh, that's great borscht. Zumma Borscht. Mmm I believe it is Russian in origin.
I guess his mom still has sorrel. I know it also as Zurumph (I really don't know how it's truly spelled, so you're getting a phonetic spelling).
I just saw my son in law today, but I forgot to ask if he'd found it to try it to see if that's what he remembered.
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