Red Wood Sorrel
oxalis hedysaroides
Also known as: ["False Shamrock","Yellow Wood Sorrel"]
Overview
A perennial herbaceous plant with clover-like leaves and yellow flowers, native to South America.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Oxalidales |
| Family: | Oxalidaceae |
| Genus: | Oxalis |
| Botanical Name: | Oxalis hedysaroides |
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":"10–30°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 sand.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed throughout the growing season; more frequently during flowering periods.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; focus on tidiness rather than drastic shaping.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; tolerate partial shade but may become leggy.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense light; protect from 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; avoid direct afternoon sun; provide dappled light in summer.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
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; top-dress with compost annually.
Temperature
Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates cooler temperatures but may go dormant below 50°F (10°C).
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from drafts; adjust care during dormancy.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season, none in winter
Dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Division of tubers or stem cuttings.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Separate tubers or take cuttings.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain moisture and warmth.
- 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
Tubers may sprout in 2–4 weeks; stem cuttings root in 3–6 weeks.
Tools Needed
Clean knife, pots, well-draining mix, rooting hormone (optional).
Quick Tips
Ensure tubers are firm; use sterile tools; maintain consistent humidity for cuttings.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip off dead or faded flowers; trim yellowing leaves at the base.
Pruning Plan
Remove spent flowers and yellowing leaves to encourage new growth and maintain appearance.
Tools
Clean scissors or pruning shears.
Checklist
Check for dead flowers; remove yellowing leaves; sanitize tools after use.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, just before active growth begins.
Pot Size
One size up from current pot; ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Gently remove plant; trim any rotting roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound; beneficial for tuber growth.
Checklist
Check root health; use fresh soil; ensure proper drainage; water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water deeply at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; ensure excess water is removed to prevent waterlogging.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate organic matter for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or leaf drop in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Growth slows or halts; may enter dormancy; roots can rot in cold, wet soil.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; reduce watering; protect from drafts and cold windows.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, or leaf drop; may cease flowering in excessive heat.
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 balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during active growth (spring/summer); cease in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal irritation from ingesting Oxalis hedysaroides due to its oxalic acid content. Symptoms are typically mild but can escalate with large quantities.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicThe oxalic acid in Oxalis hedysaroides can cause mild gastrointestinal upset in dogs. Prolonged or large ingestion may lead to more severe symptoms due to calcium binding.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicOxalis hedysaroides contains oxalic acid, which can interfere with calcium absorption and lead to metabolic disturbances. Ingestion may cause mild gastrointestinal discomfort and irritation.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Oxalis hedysaroides 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 hedysaroides?
A: Water when the top inch of soil is dry, ensuring good drainage to prevent root rot.
Q: Does Oxalis hedysaroides require full sun?
A: It prefers partial shade to full shade, especially in warmer climates.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Oxalidaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | partial shade to full shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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