Blue woodsorrel (Oxalis caerulea)

Also known as: Blue Wood Sorrel, Blue Oxalis

Blue woodsorrel (Oxalis violacea) is a charming perennial plant distinguished by its small, violet to pink flowers and clover-like trifoliate leaves. Key characteristics include:

- **Leaves**: Comprised of three heart-shaped leaflets, resembling a clover.
- **Flowers**: Delicate, with five petals, typically in shades of violet or pink, blooming primarily in spring and occasionally in fall.
- **Height**: Usually grows between 4-10 inches tall.

**Preferred Growing Conditions**:
- **Light**: Best suited for partial shade, though it can endure full sun conditions.
- **Soil**: Prefers well-drained soils, with a slight acidity to neutral pH.
- **Water**: Needs moderate watering and should not be kept in overly wet soil.
- **Habitat**: Commonly found in meadows, woodlands, and roadside areas across North America.

Blue woodsorrel is appreciated for its ornamental appeal and ability to spread easily, making it a lovely yet resilient addition to gardens.

In This Article

Care Tips Water Sunlight Temperature Soil Fertilize Prune Propagation Repotting

Attributes of Blue woodsorrel

Lifespan

Perennial

Plant Height

10-15 cm (4-6 inches)

Spread

10-15 cm (4-6 inches)

Leaf Color

Green

Flower Size

1-2 cm (0.4-0.8 inches)

Flower Color

Blue to lavender

Images of Blue woodsorrel

Quickly Identify Blue woodsorrel

To identify Oxalis caerulea, look for trifoliate, heart-shaped leaves and small, delicate blue or lavender flowers. The plant typically has slender, green stems and grows close to the ground.

Scientific Classification of Blue woodsorrel

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Oxalidales

Family

Wood sorrel

Genus

Wood sorrels

Species

Blue woodsorrel

Planting and Growing of Blue woodsorrel

Care Difficulty

Moderate

Watering Schedule

Every 4 days

Sunlight Requirements

Partial sun

Sunshine Duration

4-8 hours

Ideal Temperature

60-75℉

Soil Type

Potting Mix, Peat Mix

Soil pH

6.5-7.5

Fertilizer Type

Balanced

Pruning Season

Spring, Summer

Pruning Area

Branches, Leaves

Pruning Frequency

2 times a year

Repotting Season

Spring

Pot Type

Plastic, Ceramic

How to Water Blue woodsorrel?

While watering Oxalis caerulea, aim to provide 100 ml of water per session. The soil should be moist but not waterlogged, resembling a well-wrung sponge. It’s essential to ensure good drainage and avoid standing water to prevent root rot.

What are the symptoms of an underwatered Blue woodsorrel? ›

What should I do if my Blue woodsorrel is not getting enough water? ›

What are the symptoms of an overwatered Blue woodsorrel? ›

How to save an overwatered Blue woodsorrel? ›

What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Blue woodsorrel?

Sunlight Requirements: Partial sun, Full shade

Duration of light: 3 to 6 hours daily

Partial sun or full shade is ideal for Oxalis caerulea, mimicking its natural environment. Optimal light conditions ensure vibrant leaf color and healthy growth, preventing energy deprivation and promoting overall plant vitality.

What is the best type of sunlight for Oxalis caerulea? ›

How can you ensure Oxalis caerulea gets optimal light indoors? ›

What are the benefits of providing the right light conditions for Oxalis caerulea? ›

What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for Blue woodsorrel?

Ideal Temperature: 60 ~ 75℉

The ideal temperature range for Oxalis caerulea is between 60 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit. This range provides the optimal conditions for healthy growth and ensures that the plant can carry out photosynthesis effectively. Maintaining this temperature range supports vibrant foliage and consistent flowering. It mimics the plant's natural environment, which is crucial for its overall well-being.

What Soil is Best for Blue woodsorrel?

Soil type: Sandy loam, Loam

Soil PH: 6.5 ~ 7.5

Oxalis caerulea thrives best in well-draining soil, which prevents water from stagnating and causing root rot. This property helps the plant's roots access the oxygen they need, promoting vigorous growth and healthy foliage. Moderate soil fertility is essential for sustaining the growth of Oxalis caerulea, providing a balanced supply of nutrients without overwhelming the plant. It supports optimal bloom production and keeps the plant looking vibrant and lively. While drainage is key, retaining some moisture in the soil is beneficial for Oxalis caerulea, ensuring it does not dry out too quickly, particularly in warmer climates. This balance maintains lush leaves and extends flowering periods.

How to Fertilize Blue woodsorrel?

Fertilizer type: Balanced

When fertilizing Oxalis caerulea, use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half the recommended strength. Apply approximately 50 ml per plant to avoid over-fertilization, ensuring the nutrients are well absorbed by the roots.

How to Prune Blue woodsorrel?

Pruning Time: Spring, Summer, Autumn

Begin by sterilizing your pruning shears with alcohol to prevent the spread of diseases. Identify branches that look overcrowded, sickly, or crossing each other and remove these first. Make your cuts at a 45-degree angle, just above a leaf node, to promote new growth in the desired direction. Regularly step back to ensure you're maintaining your desired plant shape. After pruning, remove any plant debris from around the base to prevent pests and diseases. After pruning, ensure Oxalis caerulea receives adequate water but be cautious not to overwater. The plant might experience slight stress from pruning, so provide optimal conditions for recovery. This includes correct sunlight exposure and monitoring for any signs of disease in the following weeks. More About Pruning Techniques→

How to Propagate Blue woodsorrel plant?

Propagate Time: Spring, Early summer

Fill the seed tray with a well-draining potting mix. Moisten the soil just enough without making it soggy. Spread the Oxalis caerulea seeds evenly on the surface.

Choose healthy, disease-free stems and cut them at an angle using a sharp knife or scissors. Remove any lower leaves to encourage root development and reduce moisture loss.

Plant the cuttings in a moistened potting mix. Cover the seed tray or pots with plastic to maintain humidity. Water lightly to keep the soil slightly damp but not waterlogged.

More About Propagating Techniques→

How to Repot Blue woodsorrel plant?

Repotting frequency: Every two years

Watch for signs such as roots protruding from the pot's drainage holes or if the growth seems stunted. Repotting is ideally done in spring or autumn to avoid extreme weather conditions that can stress the plant.

Opt for a pot that is slightly larger than the current one, with good drainage holes. This ensures the plant has room to grow and excess water can escape, preventing root rot and promoting healthy growth.

Select a well-draining potting mix, preferably one with perlite or sand to enhance aeration. This soil provides a balance of drainage and moisture retention, essential for the healthy development of Oxalis caerulea roots.