A variety has been described: Rumex longifolius is a perennial plant that grows to a height of 60 to 120 cm (24 to 47 in).

The junctions of the stems are covered by two fused stipules which form an ochrea, a thin, paper-like sheath - a characteristic of the family Polygonaceae, and fringed above in this species.

The inflorescence consists of large clusters of racemes which contain small greenish flowers that are bisexual.

[4] Rumex longifolius is native to Europe, including Britain, from Scandinavia southwards and eastwards to the Pyrenees, the Caucasus, Western and Central Asia.

It chiefly grows in open areas such as on roadsides, in arable fields and in damp grassy places.