Pink woodsorrel (Oxalis debilis)

Also known as: Pink shamrock, Large-flowered pink-sorrel

Pink woodsorrel (Oxalis debilis) is a flowering plant that has spread to every inhabited continent. While all parts of the plant are edible, they should be consumed in moderation because they contain oxalic acid. The plant has a tangy, lemon-like taste. Without proper management, it can become invasive.

In This Article

Care Tips Water Sunlight Temperature Soil Fertilize Prune Propagation Repotting Toxicity

Attributes of Pink woodsorrel

Lifespan

Perennial

Plant Type

Herb

Plant Height

10 cm to 15 cm

Spread

10 cm to 30 cm

Leaf Color

Green Blue Red

Flower Size

2.5 cm to 5 cm

Flower Color

Pink Yellow Green Purple

Images of Pink woodsorrel

Quickly Identify Pink woodsorrel

This plant can be identified by its trifoliate leaves that resemble clover and its bright pink to purple flowers. The leaves fold up at night or when under stress. It typically grows low to the ground and can spread easily via underground bulbs.

Scientific Classification of Pink woodsorrel

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Oxalidales

Family

Wood sorrel

Genus

Wood sorrels

Species

Pink woodsorrel

Planting and Growing of Pink woodsorrel

Care Difficulty

Easy

Watering Schedule

Every 4 days

Sunlight Requirements

Full sun

Sunshine Duration

4-8 hours

Ideal Temperature

60-70℉

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 Pink woodsorrel?

Oxalis debilis requires moderate watering. Aim to keep the soil consistently moist without waterlogging it. Water until you notice excess dripping from the bottom of the pot—usually around 250 ml suffices for potted plants, but adjust if your plant is indoors or outdoors depending on environmental humidity.

What are the symptoms of an underwatered Pink woodsorrel? ›

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

What are the symptoms of an overwatered Pink woodsorrel? ›

How to save an overwatered Pink woodsorrel? ›

What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Pink woodsorrel?

Sunlight Requirements: Full sun, Partial sun

Duration of light: 6 to 8 hours

Oxalis debilis performs best in conditions ranging from full to partial sun. Ideal lighting supports vigorous growth, rich foliage color, and prolific flowering, enhancing the plant's decorative appeal.

What are the ideal light conditions for Oxalis debilis? ›

How can you ensure Oxalis debilis receives ideal lighting? ›

What are the benefits of ideal lighting for Oxalis debilis? ›

What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for Pink woodsorrel?

Ideal Temperature: 60 ~ 70℉

Oxalis debilis thrives best within an ideal temperature range of 60°F to 70°F. This range supports optimal photosynthesis rates and healthy growth, providing the plant with an environment that mimics its natural habitat. While it can tolerate a bit hotter or cooler conditions, maintaining this range ensures vibrant foliage and robust flowering.

What Soil is Best for Pink woodsorrel?

Soil type: Loam, Sandy loam, Clay soil

Soil PH: 6.5 ~ 7.5

Oxalis debilis thrives in well-drained soil, which prevents waterlogging and root rot. This is vital for the plant's root system, ensuring they receive enough oxygen and minimizing stress on the plant. While not highly demanding, Oxalis debilis benefits from organically rich soil. This supports robust growth by providing essential nutrients naturally, without the need for heavy chemical fertilizers. Consistent moisture is ideal for Oxalis debilis, but it shouldn't be excessively wet. Maintaining soil moisture helps sustain lush foliage and prevents wilting, especially during hot weather.

How to Fertilize Pink woodsorrel?

Fertilizer type: Balanced

Oxalis debilis, commonly known as pink woodsorrel, appreciates a balanced approach when it comes to fertilization. Typically, apply a diluted liquid fertilizer at half the recommended strength during the growing season to avoid over-fertilization.

How to Prune Pink woodsorrel?

Pruning Time: Spring, Summer, Autumn

Begin by identifying and removing any dead or yellowing leaves to promote air circulation. Next, trim back leggy stems to encourage a more compact and bushy growth. Ensure cuts are made just above a leaf node, which will foster new shoots. For a more controlled shape, selectively pinch or prune back young stems during the growing season. This encourages branching, creating a fuller appearance. Regularly revisit the plant to make minor adjustments and remove wilted flowers to extend blooming.

How to Propagate Pink woodsorrel plant?

Propagate Time: Spring, Early spring

Begin by collecting mature seeds from the Oxalis debilis plant. Clean the seeds to remove any pulp, and let them dry naturally in a cool place for a few days. This process assists in breaking dormancy and facilitates successful germination.

Carefully dig up the mature Oxalis debilis plant. Use a sharp knife to separate the bulbs or tubers, ensuring that each section has both roots and a shoot. Replant them immediately to prevent drying out, watering them well to settle the soil.

Plant the seeds or divided bulbs in an appropriate soil mix, ensuring good drainage. Place them in indirect sunlight and maintain moist soil conditions until new growth is observed. This step ensures the establishment of new plants.

How to Repot Pink woodsorrel plant?

Repotting frequency: Biennially or when crowded

Observe if the Oxalis debilis shows signs of being root-bound, such as roots growing out of the drainage holes, stunted growth, or reduced flowering. These indicators suggest it's time for repotting to provide more space and nutrients.

Select a pot slightly larger than the current one, with sufficient drainage holes to prevent waterlogging. The larger size allows the roots more room to expand, promoting healthier growth and more robust blooms.

Opt for a well-draining potting mix, preferably one amended with sand or perlite. This facilitates proper aeration and moisture control, preventing root rot and supporting vibrant, lush foliage.

Toxicity of Pink woodsorrel

Is Pink woodsorrel toxic to cat?

Pink woodsorrel is known for its harmful effects on cats. Cats may inadvertently consume parts of pink woodsorrel, resulting in possible health issues. Every part of the plant carries toxicity, placing cats in danger if they interact with any part of pink woodsorrel. After ingestion, cats may display symptoms of discomfort and sickness, suggesting poisoning has occurred. Due to the gravity of this matter, it is crucial for cat owners to vigilantly observe their pets and seek prompt veterinary assistance if any signs of distress arise.

Is Pink woodsorrel toxic to dog?

Pink woodsorrel is recognized as toxic to dogs. Canines may inadvertently consume parts of this plant, resulting in poisoning. The entire plant—comprising leaves, stems, and flowers—contains harmful substances that can adversely affect a dog's health. Following ingestion, a dog may show symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, or more severe indications, depending on the quantity ingested. It is essential for dog owners to vigilantly supervise their pets and restrict their access to pink woodsorrel. If a dog exhibits any signs of poisoning after consuming pink woodsorrel, it is vital to seek immediate veterinary assistance to ensure the best possible outcome for the animal.

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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