Yellow Wood Sorrel
oxalis fontana
Also known as: ["Yellow Woodsorrel","Yellow Oxalis"]
Overview
A perennial herbaceous plant with clover-like leaves and bright yellow flowers, native to parts of North America.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","low maintenance"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Oxalidales |
| Family: | Oxalidaceae |
| Genus: | Oxalis |
| Botanical Name: | Oxalis fontana |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: indoor pot or shaded garden bed
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"8–11"}
- 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 coarse 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 removing more than one-third of foliage at a time.
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 leaf burn; adjust placement based on outdoor/indoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full shade
Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter harsh light; avoid direct afternoon sun.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overwatering, especially in dormant periods.
Soil
well-draining, sandy loam with organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; top-dress with compost annually.
Temperature
Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); cooler temperatures (50–60°F) during dormancy.
Avoid sudden temperature shifts; protect from drafts; maintain consistent warmth during active growth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season
Apply after watering to prevent root burn; 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 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 with perlite or sand.
Hormone
Optional, but rooting hormone can speed up root development.
Timeline
Roots develop in 3–6 weeks; new growth appears in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruners, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining mix.
Quick Tips
Use clean tools to prevent disease; maintain humidity with a plastic cover; avoid direct sun.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip stems just above a leaf node or natural branching point.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or yellowing leaves to encourage new growth; shape as needed for aesthetics.
Tools
Clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; prune dead/damaged leaves; shape gently; dispose of clippings.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before active growth begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot one size larger (1–2 inches wider) than the current one.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if crowded; place in fresh, well-draining soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and soil refresh.
Checklist
Check root health; prepare new pot with drainage; use fresh soil; water sparingly post-repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water thoroughly at the base, ensuring even moisture reaches the root zone; allow excess to drain away to prevent waterlogging.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply when the top inch of soil feels 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
Wilting, yellowing leaves, or stunted growth in extreme heat; leaf drop or dormancy in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may enter dormancy; prolonged cold can damage roots or cause rot.
Solution: Move to a warmer spot; reduce watering; protect from drafts and frost.
Hot Stress
Leaf scorch, wilting, or dehydration; may drop leaves to conserve water.
Solution: Provide shade, increase humidity, and water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check season; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid contact with leaves.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season; cease in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal distress if they ingest parts of Oxalis fontana. The oxalic acid content can cause irritation and discomfort, though severe toxicity is rare.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Oxalis fontana can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset due to the presence of oxalic acid. While not typically life-threatening, large quantities may cause more severe symptoms.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicOxalis fontana 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 fontana toxic to pets?
A: Yes, it is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested in large quantities.
Q: How often should I water Oxalis fontana?
A: Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Q: Does Oxalis fontana attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees and butterflies with its bright yellow flowers.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Oxalidaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | partial shade to full shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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