Redwood Sorrel
oxalis oregana
Also known as: ["Wood Sorrel","Oregon Oxalis"]
Overview
A low-growing, evergreen perennial with clover-like leaves and small white flowers, native to the Pacific Northwest.
Benefits & Perks
["shade tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Oxalidales |
| Family: | Oxalidaceae |
| Genus: | Oxalis |
| Botanical Name: | Oxalis oregana |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: shaded garden bed or container with indirect light
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–25°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"6–9"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days to maintain humidity
- Drainage: Fast-draining.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, slightly acidic potting mix with organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 6–12 months or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily. Tolerates partial shade; adjust exposure based on season.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Gradually acclimate to brighter light to prevent leaf burn. Place in filtered sunlight indoors or dappled shade outdoors.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
partial shade
Avoid direct sun; rotate plant for even growth; adjust light in winter.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid waterlogging; ensure good drainage.
Soil
moist, well-draining, rich in organic matter
pH: 5.5–6.5.
Ensure soil doesn't compact; maintain slight acidity; avoid heavy clay soils.
Temperature
Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C). Tolerates cooler temperatures but avoids frost.
Protect from frost; avoid sudden temperature changes; maintain moderate warmth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; fertilize during active growth; stop in dormant periods.
Propagation
Methods
Division of rhizomes or stem cuttings.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Divide rhizomes or take stem cuttings.
- Plant in moist medium.
- Maintain humidity.
- Wait for roots.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand.
Hormone
Optional, but can help with stem cuttings.
Timeline
Rhizome division: immediate growth; stem cuttings: roots in 3–6 weeks, mature plant in 3–6 months.
Tools Needed
Clean knife, pots, rooting hormone (optional), misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Divide carefully to avoid damage; keep cuttings moist; provide warmth for rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Trim back leggy stems or remove yellowing leaves to encourage bushier growth.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning to maintain shape and remove dead or damaged foliage.
Tools
Clean scissors or pruning shears.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; remove dead/damaged leaves; trim for shape; discard clippings.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before active growth begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot, ensuring good drainage.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; place in new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot to refresh soil and provide space.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot; prepare new soil; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water thoroughly; ensure drainage; discard excess water.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone. Water until it drains from the bottom, then discard excess to prevent standing water.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water when the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot. Adjust based on humidity and temperature.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate peat moss for acidity.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, or yellowing in extreme heat or cold; stunted growth.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf discoloration or dormancy in prolonged cold.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate pots; avoid cold drafts.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, curl, or scorch in excessive heat; growth may slow.
Solution: Provide shade; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use 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 may experience mild gastrointestinal irritation from ingesting Oxalis oregana due to its oxalic acid content. Symptoms are typically mild but should be monitored.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicThe oxalic acid in Oxalis oregana can cause mild gastrointestinal upset in dogs. While generally not life-threatening, ingestion may lead to discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicOxalis oregana contains oxalic acid, which can interfere with calcium absorption and may cause mild gastrointestinal distress. In large quantities, it can contribute to kidney stone formation due to its oxalate content.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Redwood Sorrel edible?
A: The leaves and flowers are edible in small quantities but contain oxalic acid, which can be harmful in large amounts.
Q: Does Redwood Sorrel prefer sun or shade?
A: It thrives in partial to full shade and prefers moist, well-drained soil.
Q: How do I propagate Redwood Sorrel?
A: It can be propagated by division or by planting its small bulb-like structures called corms.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Oxalidaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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