(Rumex acetosa) This old-world perennial is an early spring green with crisp, arrow-shaped leaves and a lightly tart, lemony flavor. Moreover, it is fabulously nutritious, as the deep roots pull nutrients up into the leaves. Makes a great edible pasture cover crop. Plant it once and you’ll have it each spring. Roots also make a good fabric dye. A favorite for the permaculture, polyculture and homestead garden.