Mountain sorrel
oxyria digyna
Also known as: ["Alpine sorrel","Oxalis acetosa"]
Overview
A perennial herb native to alpine and arctic regions, known for its acidic-tasting leaves and distinctive heart-shaped leaves.
Benefits & Perks
["edible fruits","medicinal use","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","cold hardy","drought tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Caryophyllales |
| Family: | Polygonaceae |
| Genus: | Oxyria |
| Botanical Name: | Oxyria digyna |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: moist, shaded garden bed or container with consistent moisture
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"−20–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"3–7"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Well-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Rich, well-draining soil with organic matter (e.g., peat moss, compost).
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 2–3 months or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; tolerates partial shade, especially in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to direct sunlight to avoid scorching; provide shade during intense midday sun; adjust light exposure based on indoor/outdoor placement.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid direct afternoon sun.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom; ensure soil dries slightly between waterings; avoid waterlogging.
Soil
moist, fertile, well-drained loam
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix of peat moss and perlite; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (50–70°F or 10–21°C); thrives in cooler climates and can tolerate frost.
Keep away from drafts; maintain consistent temperatures; adjust care based on seasonal changes.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season, none in winter
Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; stop fertilizing in dormant periods.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a healthy cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Apply rooting hormone (optional).
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix (e.g., peat moss and perlite) or water propagation.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth appears in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain high humidity; avoid direct sunlight during rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips for bushier growth; trim leggy stems to encourage branching.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, remove dead or damaged growth, and encourage bushier growth.
Tools
Clean pruning shears or scissors.
Checklist
Use clean tools; prune dead or yellowing leaves; shape the plant as desired.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; repot in fresh, well-draining soil; water lightly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots outgrow the pot; beneficial for rejuvenation.
Checklist
Choose a new pot with drainage holes; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water thoroughly; ensure proper drainage.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the root zone, ensuring even moisture distribution; water deeply to encourage root growth; allow excess water to drain to prevent root rot.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water regularly during active growth (spring/summer), allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings; reduce frequency in dormant periods (fall/winter).
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure good aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf discoloration (yellowing or browning), stunted growth, or bud drop.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth but do not typically harm the plant; can survive light frosts.
Solution: Provide protection from extreme cold (e.g., frost cloth); ensure good air circulation to prevent mold; avoid overwatering in cold conditions.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause leaf scorch, wilting, or reduced vigor; may go dormant in very hot conditions.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity with misting or a humidifier; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during active growth; avoid over-fertilizing.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); avoid fertilizing in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats are sensitive to oxalic acid, and ingestion of Oxyria digyna in large quantities may cause gastrointestinal distress and metabolic imbalances, particularly affecting calcium levels.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in large quantities
Dogs
Slightly ToxicThe oxalic acid content in Oxyria digyna can be harmful to dogs if ingested in large amounts, potentially leading to gastrointestinal upset and metabolic issues due to calcium binding.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in large quantities
Humans
Slightly ToxicOxyria digyna contains oxalic acid, which can interfere with calcium absorption and lead to metabolic disturbances when consumed in significant amounts. The plant is generally considered safe in small quantities but can cause toxicity due to oxalate accumulation.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in large quantities
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Mountain sorrel safe for consumption?
A: Yes, the leaves are edible and have a tangy, acidic flavor, often used in salads or as a garnish.
Q: Where does Mountain sorrel typically grow?
A: It thrives in alpine and arctic regions, often in rocky or gravelly soils with full sun exposure.
Q: Does Mountain sorrel attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees and other pollinators due to its small greenish flowers.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Polygonaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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