Wood Sorrel

(Oxalis acetosella)

Wood Sorrel (Oxalis acetosella)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Oxalis acetosella, commonly known as Wood Sorrel, is a semi-deciduous perennial herb that thrives in the dappled shade of deciduous forests and grasslands across Europe, Asia, and the Caucasus. It typically forms a low-growing carpet, reaching heights of 2-5 inches (5-13 cm) with a similar spread. The plant is characterized by its trifoliate leaves that resemble clover and its delicate white flowers, which bloom from spring to midsummer. These chasmogamous flowers often display pink streaks, and less commonly, red or violet hues may be present. Notably, the flowers and leaves exhibit nyctinastic movements, closing at night or during rain.

Wood Sorrel is valued for its charming appearance and is often used as a ground cover in woodland gardens and shaded borders. It is also appreciated for its edible qualities, with leaves that have a tangy, lemon-like flavor. In cultivation, it prefers moist, well-drained soils rich in organic matter and can tolerate a range of light conditions from full sun to partial shade, although it flourishes best in partial shade. While it is generally low-maintenance, it can spread vigorously by rhizomes and self-seeding, which may become problematic in some settings. Gardeners should be aware of its potential invasiveness outside its native range and consult local regulations before planting.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Herb
  • Height: 0.5-1 feet
  • Width: 1-1.5 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: White, Pink
  • Flowering Season: Spring, Summer
  • Leaf Retention: Semi-Deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
  • Water: Medium
  • Drainage: Slow, Medium, Fast

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Butterfly Garden, Deer Resistant, Drought Tolerant, Edible*Disclaimer: Easyscape's listed plant edibility is for informational use. Always verify the safety and proper identification of any plant before consumption., Fragrant, Groundcover, Low Maintenance, Rock Garden, Showy Flowers

Natural Habitat

Thrives in the dappled shade of deciduous forests and grasslands

Other Names

Common Names: Mountain Wood Sorrel, Common Wood Sorrel, Irish Shamrock, Wood-Sorrel, Cuckoo-Bread, European Wood-Sorrel, Skovsyre, Sauerklee, Wald Sauerklee, Gemeiner Sauerklee

Scientific Names: , Oxalis acetosella, Oxalis fragrans, Oxalis leucolepis, Oxalis parviflora, Oxalis acetosella var. parviflora, Oxalis acetosella var. vegeta, Oxalis acetosella subsp. acetosella, Oxalis acetosella subsp. taemoni, Oxalis acetosella var. caerulea

GBIF Accepted Name: Oxalis acetosella L.