Oxalis stricta, called the common yellow woodsorrel (or simply yellow woodsorrel), common yellow oxalis, upright yellow-sorrel, lemon clover, or more ambiguously and informally "sourgrass", "sheep weed", or "pickle plant", is a herbaceous plant native to North America, parts of Eurasia, and a rare introduction in Britain. It tends to grow in woodlands, meadows, and in disturbed areas as both a perennial and annual. Erect when young, this plant later becomes decumbent as it lies down, and branches regularly. It is not to be confused with similar plants in the same genus which are also often referred to as "yellow woodsorrel".
Creeping woodsorrel is fairly resistant to diseases and usually does not suffer from them. However, it can be affected by pests and illnesses present in its environment. These issues are typically minor. For care, this plant requires a moderate amount of attention. It should be pruned regularly to keep a neat appearance and to support healthy growth. Fertilizing can also encourage better flowering. Creeping woodsorrel is well suited for anyone with outdoor space, such as a garden or patio, and does not demand extensive experience in plant care. It may need more attention when grown indoors.
How to keep Oxalis Stricta.
Light
Creeping woodsorrel grows best in places where it gets abundant sunlight throughout the day, though it can also tolerate areas with limited light. Too little sun can weaken its strength and vitality, while too much exposure can negatively affect its growth.
Water
Yellow woodsorrel has moderate water needs; it's important to avoid waterlogging. Water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry, and aim to keep the top 2 inches moist. If possible, use rainwater for watering. However, tap water is fine as long as it's not too hard or cold.
Humidity
This plant will thrive in moderate humidity, which is probably the level in your home. However, misting it a few times a week can be very beneficial. Make sure the room has good ventilation.
Temperature
Creeping woodsorrel flourishes best at temperatures ranging from 5 to 38 degrees Celsius (41 to 100 degrees Fahrenheit). Its ideal growing condition typically involves a steady temperature between 21 and 29 degrees Celsius (70 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit). In the heat of the summer, the plant could profit from sporadic misting of water to maintain leaf hydration in elevated temperatures.
Fertilizer
Usually a single fertilizer application in spring is enough for Creeping woodsorrel, although repeated feedings can increase growth. Apply fertilizer roughly every month to month and a half. Fertilization improves the leaves’ appearance and function, maintaining even color and a healthy texture. It also promotes root development and nutrient uptake for sustained plant health.
Pruning
Yellow woodsorrel should be pruned during its winter dormancy, which is indicated by withering foliage. It's normal for the leaves to turn brown, so remove them during this time; new growth will appear in 2 to 4 weeks. Remember to always disinfect your pruning tools to prevent cross-contamination.
Toxicity
Oxalis plants are toxic both to people and animals when ingested. All parts of the plant are poisonous, with the highest concentration of toxins being in the bulbs.
Further reading →
The toxicity and danger assessments provided are for reference only. We do not assure their accuracy, so it's crucial not to depend on them. Seek professional advice when necessary for accurate guidance.
Botanical profile.
- Plant Type
- Herb
- Life Cycle
- Perennial
- Genus
- Oxalis
- Family
- Oxalidaceae
- Hardiness Zone
- 4-11
- Mature Height
- 10 cm to 34 cm
- Mature Spread
- 46 cm
- Leaf Color
- Green, Purple, Red
- Leaf Type
- Deciduous
- Flower Color
- Yellow
- Flower Size
- 0.51 cm to 0.51 cm
- Bloom Time
- All year round
- Planting Time
- Autumn, Spring
- Harvest Time
- All year round
- Native Area
- Libya, Pakistan, Nigeria, Slovenia, Cameroon, Koppen, Ethiopia, Central African Republic, Tunisia, Peru, Bulgaria, Bangladesh, Laos, Colombia, Afghanistan, Solomon Islands, Kazakhstan, Togo, El Salvador, Eswatini, Egypt, Angola, Austria, Namibia, Jamaica, Uzbekistan, Russia, Cuba, Venezuela, Ghana, Botswana, France, Nepal, Tajikistan, Sudan, Armenia, Greece, Switzerland, Bhutan, Nicaragua, Algeria, Sri Lanka, United Arab Emirates, Mexico, Guatemala, Slovakia, Montenegro, Croatia, Morocco, Uganda, Tanzania, Benin, Germany, Sierra Leone, Belgium, Saudi Arabia, Malawi, Honduras, Cyprus, Panama, Lebanon, Syria, Côte d'Ivoire, Iran, Ecuador, Azerbaijan, Kuwait, Costa Rica, Congo (DRC), Somalia, Lesotho, Rwanda, Eritrea, Yemen, Kenya, Iraq, Equatorial Guinea, Burundi, Liberia, Brazil, Congo, Czech Republic, Guinea, Serbia, Bahamas, Myanmar, Albania, Hungary, Turkmenistan
