Curled Dock
Rumex crispus
Last reviewed: June 2026
Curled Dock is toxic to dogs and cats.
Listed as toxic by the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (last reviewed 2026-05-21). If your pet has been exposed, call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435and your veterinarian's emergency line.
Pollinator Patch flags toxic plants so you can choose a pet-safe native alternative for your yard.
Light
part shade
Water
medium
Size
24"–48" H × 12"–24" W
Bloom
May, Jun, Jul, Aug
Native to
DE
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Curled dock is a tall perennial herb with distinctive wavy-edged leaves and upright stems that produce clusters of small reddish-brown seeds. This hardy native plant grows 2-4 feet tall and tolerates various conditions, blooming from late spring through summer. The plant has a somewhat coarse, weedy appearance that makes it better suited for naturalized areas.
In an HOA neighborhood
Curled Dock takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: low. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Commonly considered a weed by many homeowners
- Tall growth habit can look unkempt
- Self-seeds readily and may spread
Wildlife value
The seeds provide food for birds and small mammals, while the foliage serves as host plant for some butterfly caterpillars. The long blooming period offers nectar for various small pollinators.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Pollinator Patch flags toxic plants like Curled Dock and shows pet-safe natives for your ecoregion instead.