Yellow Wood Sorrel
oxalis stricta
Also known as: ["Common Yellow Wood Sorrel","Lemon Clover"]
Overview
A small herbaceous plant with clover-like leaves and yellow flowers, often found in lawns and gardens.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","low maintenance","drought tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Oxalidales |
| Family: | Oxalidaceae |
| Genus: | Oxalis |
| Botanical Name: | Oxalis stricta |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: garden beds, borders, or containers in partial shade
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"3–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining potting mix with added perlite or sand.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every few weeks during active growth.
- Pruning Intensity: Light pruning to remove damaged or old foliage.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; tolerates partial shade, especially in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense light; protect from direct midday sun to prevent scorching; adjust placement based on seasonal light changes.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
very easyeasy
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun
Rotate plant weekly; use sheer curtains for filtered light; move outdoors in spring/summer for brighter conditions.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings
Allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overwatering; water deeply but infrequently.
Soil
well-draining, moderately fertile soil with some organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; topdress with compost annually.
Temperature
Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); can tolerate cooler temperatures but avoid frost.
Avoid sudden temperature shifts; protect from frost; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth with a balanced liquid fertilizer
Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; stop fertilizing before dormancy.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division of bulbs/rhizomes.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take cuttings.
- Apply rooting hormone (optional).
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain moisture and warmth.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid conditions with indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand.
Hormone
Optional, but can speed up root development.
Timeline
Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth appears in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining mix.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep soil consistently moist; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip individual leaves or stems at the base with clean, sharp tools.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or yellowing leaves to maintain appearance and prevent disease spread.
Tools
Pruning shears or sharp scissors.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; remove only dead/damaged parts; avoid over-pruning.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before active growth begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot 1–2 inches larger in diameter than the current one.
Method
Gently remove plant; trim roots if necessary; place in a new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 1–2 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for rejuvenation.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot with drainage; use fresh soil mix.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting foliage.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring even moisture distribution without saturating the soil. Water early in the day to allow foliage to dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water when the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate organic matter like compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or dormancy in extreme cold; wilting or leaf drop in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Growth slows or halts; leaves may turn yellow or drop; plant may enter dormancy.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; protect from drafts; reduce watering during dormancy.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, or premature flowering; reduced vigor in prolonged heat.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid contact with foliage.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during active growth (spring/summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats are sensitive to oxalic acid, and ingestion of Oxalis stricta can cause mild to moderate gastrointestinal distress. The plant is not typically considered highly toxic, but caution is advised due to the potential for kidney irritation in susceptible individuals.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Oxalis stricta can cause mild gastrointestinal upset due to the oxalic acid content. While generally not life-threatening, large amounts may lead to more severe symptoms, particularly in small dogs or those with existing health issues.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicOxalis stricta contains oxalic acid, which can interfere with calcium absorption and lead to metabolic disturbances when ingested in significant quantities. The effects are generally mild but can be more pronounced in individuals with pre-existing kidney conditions.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Oxalis stricta edible?
A: While the leaves and flowers are edible in small quantities, they contain oxalic acid, which can be harmful in large amounts.
Q: How can I control Oxalis stricta in my garden?
A: Hand-pulling, mulching, or using selective herbicides can help manage its spread.
Q: Does Oxalis stricta attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees and other pollinators due to its flowers.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Oxalidaceae |
| Care: | very easy |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
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