Mountain Woodsorrel

(Oxalis montana)

Mountain Woodsorrel (Oxalis montana)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Oxalis montana, commonly known as Mountain Woodsorrel, Wood Shamrock, or White Woodsorrel, is a perennial herb that thrives in the cool, moist, and humid understory of mature forests, particularly those dominated by red spruce, balsam fir, red maple, and sugar maple. It is native to eastern North America, including eastern Canada, the north-central and eastern United States, and the Appalachian Mountains. Mountain Woodsorrel typically grows to about 4 inches in height and forms clumps of delicate, heart-shaped leaves. It blooms from late spring to early summer, producing white to pale pink flowers with distinctive purple veins, which are quite showy against the green foliage.

This plant is valued for its ground-covering ability and the charming appearance of its clover-like leaves and dainty flowers. It is often used in shaded garden areas, woodland gardens, and naturalized areas. Mountain Woodsorrel prefers acidic, well-drained soils and can tolerate a range of light conditions from full shade to filtered sunlight. While it is not drought-tolerant, it requires minimal maintenance once established. Gardeners should be aware that the leaves contain oxalic acid, which can be toxic in large quantities and imparts a sour taste, historically used in small amounts to flavor foods. Due to its rhizomatous nature, it can spread and fill in areas, making it an effective ground cover. However, it is not aggressive and is unlikely to become invasive.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Herb
  • Height: 0.25-1 feet
  • Width: 0.25-0.5 feet
  • Growth Rate: Slow
  • Flower Color: White
  • Flowering Season: Spring, Summer
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Part Shade
  • Water: Medium
  • Drainage: Medium

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Butterfly Garden, Groundcover, Low Maintenance

Natural Habitat

Cool, moist, and humid understory of mature forests dominated by red spruce, balsam fir, red maple, and sugar maple

Other Names

Common Names: Common Wood Sorrel, White Wood-Sorrel, American Wood-Sorrel, Northern Wood Sorrel

Scientific Names: , Oxalis montana, Oxalis acetosella f. rhodantha, Oxalis acetosella subsp. montana, Oxalis acetosella subsp. montana, Oxalis acetosella var. rhodantha, Oxalis americana, Oxalis americana f. rhodantha, Oxalis montana f. rhodantha,

GBIF Accepted Name: