Creeping woodsorrel (Oxalis corniculata)

Also known as: Yellow woodsorrel, Procumbent yellow sorrel

Creeping woodsorrel (Oxalis corniculata) is an herbaceous plant with a tangy, lemon-like taste, often used in teas for its high vitamin C content. Despite its benefits, consuming it in large quantities can be harmful due to its significant oxalate levels. These oxalates can interfere with calcium absorption, potentially leading to the formation of kidney stones or other calcium-related issues. Moderation is key, especially for individuals with kidney problems or those susceptible to kidney stones.

In This Article

Care Tips Water Sunlight Temperature Soil Fertilize Prune Propagation Repotting Toxicity

Attributes of Creeping woodsorrel

Lifespan

Perennial

Plant Type

Herb

Plant Height

10 cm to 35 cm

Spread

45 cm

Leaf Color

Green Purple Red

Flower Size

4 mm to 5 mm

Flower Color

Yellow

Images of Creeping woodsorrel

Quickly Identify Creeping woodsorrel

Trifoliolate leaves with heart-shaped leaflets, folding rhythmically at night.

Bright yellow flowers in umbel inflorescence, 1-5 per cluster.

Cylindrical five-sided fruit capsule with stiff hairs, bursting for seed dispersal.

Heart-shaped, trifolate leaves with pubescent green or purple foliage.

Slender stems with above and below-ground stolons, branching for lateral spread.

Scientific Classification of Creeping woodsorrel

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Woodsorrels, quandongs, and allies

Family

Wood sorrel

Genus

Wood sorrels

Species

Creeping woodsorrel

Planting and Growing of Creeping woodsorrel

Care Difficulty

Easy

Watering Schedule

Every 8 days

Sunlight Requirements

Partial sun

Sunshine Duration

10-12 hours

Ideal Temperature

60-77℉

Soil Type

Potting Mix, Peat Mix

Soil pH

5-7.8

Fertilizer Type

Balanced

Pruning Season

Spring, Summer

Pruning Area

Branches, Leaves

Pruning Frequency

2 times a year

Repotting Season

Spring

Pot Type

Plastic, Terracotta

How to Water Creeping woodsorrel?

When watering Oxalis corniculata, make sure the soil is thoroughly moistened but not waterlogged. A good rule of thumb is to water until you see excess water draining out of the bottom of the pot. This ensures that the roots are adequately hydrated without sitting in excess water, which can cause rot. Generally, around 100 ml per watering session is ideal, but you should adjust based on the pot size and environmental conditions.

What are the symptoms of an underwatered Creeping woodsorrel? ›

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

What are the symptoms of an overwatered Creeping woodsorrel? ›

How to save an overwatered Creeping woodsorrel? ›

What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Creeping woodsorrel?

Sunlight Requirements: Partial sun, Full shade

Duration of light: 3 to 6 hours daily

Oxalis corniculata thrives in partial sun to full shade. Ideal light conditions ensure healthy growth patterns, vibrant leaf color, and steady flower production, enhancing its ornamental value.

How much sunlight is ideal? ›

How to achieve ideal sunlight? ›

What are the benefits of ideal sunlight? ›

What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for Creeping woodsorrel?

Ideal Temperature: 60 ~ 77℉

The ideal temperature range for Oxalis corniculata cultivation is between 60°F and 77°F. This range provides the best conditions for photosynthesis and growth, ensuring the plant is neither too cold nor too hot. Maintaining the temperature within this range will help in optimal leaf and flower production.

What Soil is Best for Creeping woodsorrel?

Soil type: Sandy loam, Loam, Sandy soil

Soil PH: 5 ~ 7.8

Oxalis corniculata thrives best in well-drained soil as it prevents water from pooling around the roots, reducing the risk of root rot. Proper drainage ensures that the plant's roots are oxygenated, providing robust growth and vibrant foliage. Rich soil packed with essential nutrients helps Oxalis corniculata in robust growth and enhances its flowering capability. It supplies vital elements like nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, ensuring a healthy lifecycle for the plant. The soil should retain some moisture while not becoming waterlogged. Maintaining this balance helps sustain the plant during dry spells while preventing overwatering issues, maintaining the plant's health and productivity.

How to Fertilize Creeping woodsorrel?

Fertilizer type: Balanced

Oxalis corniculata is a low-demand plant when it comes to fertilization. It typically requires a balanced, all-purpose fertilizer at a quarter strength. Use approximately 1 teaspoon per gallon of water for liquid fertilizers. For slow-release fertilizers, use only 1-2 tablespoons lightly sprinkled around the base of each plant.

How to Prune Creeping woodsorrel?

Pruning Time: Spring, Summer, Autumn, Winter

Always begin your pruning with clean, sharp tools to prevent the spread of disease. Disinfect scissors or pruners with alcohol before and after use, ensuring precise cuts that do not damage the plant and promote quicker healing. When pruning, target cuts at the plant’s crown, where the stem meets the base. This encourages new growth without causing unnecessary damage to the structural integrity of the plant, fostering a healthy regrowth cycle.

How to Propagate Creeping woodsorrel plant?

Propagate Time: Spring, Early Spring, Summer

Start by filling a seed tray with a well-draining potting mix. Sow the seeds thinly and cover them lightly with soil. Water the tray gently to ensure even moisture. Place the tray in a warm, bright location but out of direct sunlight. Keep the soil consistently moist until the seeds germinate in about 2-3 weeks.

Using a sharp knife or scissors, take cuttings from healthy Oxalis corniculata plants. Each cutting should be about 10 cm long with several leaves. Remove the lower leaves to expose nodes. Dip the cut end in rooting hormone to enhance rooting success.

Carefully dig up a mature Oxalis plant and shake off excess soil to expose the roots. Using your hands, gently divide the plant into sections, ensuring each section has roots attached. Replant each division in well-draining soil and water thoroughly.

How to Repot Creeping woodsorrel plant?

Repotting frequency: Every 1-2 years

Oxalis corniculata should be repotted when you notice overcrowding in the pot or roots emerging from the drainage holes. Another signal for repotting is slowed growth or when the soil becomes compacted, affecting water drainage.

Select a pot that is slightly larger than the current one to allow room for growth, with good drainage holes to prevent waterlogging. A terracotta pot can be beneficial as it allows moisture to evaporate, reducing the risk of root rot.

Opt for a well-draining potting mix, perhaps one designed for cacti or succulents, as it ensures excess water drains away and prevents root rot. The mix should be rich in organic matter to provide nutrients to the plant.

Toxicity of Creeping woodsorrel

Is Creeping woodsorrel toxic to cat?

Creeping woodsorrel is identified as a toxic plant for cats. When cats accidentally consume any parts of this plant—such as its leaves, flowers, fruits, roots, seeds, stems, or sap/juice—they may experience poisoning. Following the ingestion of creeping woodsorrel, a cat could display a range of symptoms indicative of physical distress or illness. It is crucial that any cat showing these signs of potential poisoning is taken to a veterinary clinic without delay for appropriate care. Timely intervention is vital in addressing the health hazards linked to the toxicity of creeping woodsorrel.

Is Creeping woodsorrel toxic to dog?

Creeping woodsorrel is identified as a toxic plant for dogs. Canines may unintentionally consume various parts of creeping woodsorrel, including leaves, flowers, fruits, roots, seeds, stems, or sap/juice, which may result in poisoning. Dogs that have ingested creeping woodsorrel can display symptoms such as gastrointestinal distress, vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, or more serious reactions depending on the amount consumed. If you believe your dog has eaten creeping woodsorrel, it is crucial to obtain prompt veterinary assistance to secure the best possible recovery for your companion.

WARNING

The judgment on toxicity and danger is for reference only. We DO NOT GUARANTEE any accuracy of such judgment. Therefore, you SHALL NOT rely on such judgment. It is IMPORTANT TO SEEK PROFESSIONAL ADVICE in advance when necessary.

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