Barrelier's Wood Sorrel
oxalis barrelieri
Also known as: ["Barrelier's Sorrel","Barrelier's Oxalis"]
Overview
A perennial herbaceous plant with clover-like leaves and small, delicate flowers, native to parts of Europe and North Africa.
Benefits & Perks
["low maintenance","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Oxalidales |
| Family: | Oxalidaceae |
| Genus: | Oxalis |
| Botanical Name: | Oxalis barrelieri |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: indoor pot in a shaded area or shaded garden bed
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- 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: low
- Toughness Level: moderate
- 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 some direct morning sun but avoid harsh afternoon sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate to brighter light gradually; protect from intense direct sun to prevent leaf burn; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full shade
Rotate plant for even growth; provide shade during peak sun hours; monitor for signs of sun stress.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce to monthly in dormancy
Water thoroughly but allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overwatering, especially in dormancy.
Soil
well-draining, sandy loam with some organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; refresh soil every 2–3 years.
Temperature
Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); can tolerate cooler temperatures but avoid prolonged exposure below 50°F (10°C).
Avoid drafts; maintain consistent temperatures; protect from extreme fluctuations.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth, none in dormancy
Dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division of rhizomes.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a healthy cutting.
- Apply rooting hormone if using.
- Plant in moist medium.
- Maintain humidity and warmth.
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 speed up root development.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Sharp scissors, rooting hormone, small pots, humidity dome.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back stems or cut just above a leaf node.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape and encourage bushier growth; remove dead or yellowing leaves.
Tools
Clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; prune dead or damaged growth; shape as desired; dispose of clippings.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
One size up from current pot; ensure good drainage.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; repot in fresh, well-draining soil with a slightly larger pot.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and soil refresh.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot with drainage; use fresh soil; water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water thoroughly; ensure proper drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; ensure excess water is removed to prevent waterlogging.
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 for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, or stunted growth in cold; scorching or leaf curl in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Slows growth and may cause leaf drop; prolonged cold can damage roots and lead to rot.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate pots; reduce watering in cold conditions.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; growth may slow or stop.
Solution: Provide shade; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal distress if they ingest parts of Oxalis barrelieri due to its oxalic acid content. The effects are typically not severe but warrant monitoring.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicThe oxalic acid in Oxalis barrelieri can cause mild gastrointestinal upset in dogs. While not highly toxic, ingestion may lead to discomfort and temporary health issues.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicOxalis barrelieri contains oxalic acid, which can interfere with calcium absorption and lead to metabolic disturbances when ingested in significant quantities. The plant's toxicity is generally mild but can cause discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Oxalis barrelieri toxic to pets?
A: Yes, it is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.
Q: How often should I water Oxalis barrelieri?
A: Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Q: Does Oxalis barrelieri attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees and butterflies with its flowers.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Oxalidaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | partial shade to full shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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