Bermuda Buttercup, Sourgrass, African Wood Sorrel
oxalis pes-caprae
Also known as: ["Bermuda Buttercup","Sourgrass","African Wood Sorrel"]
Overview
A bulbous perennial herb native to South Africa, known for its bright yellow flowers and clover-like leaves.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Oxalidales |
| Family: | Oxalidaceae |
| Genus: | Oxalis |
| Botanical Name: | Oxalis pes-caprae |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: indoor pot or outdoor garden bed in mild climates
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent bulb rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining potting mix with added perlite or sand; can include some organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically during active growth in spring or summer.
- Pruning Intensity: Light pruning; remove only dead or damaged leaves.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; can tolerate some direct morning sun but avoid harsh afternoon sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct light; protect from intense sun to prevent scorching; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even growth; provide shade during peak sun hours; monitor for signs of sunburn.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce to monthly in dormancy
Allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overwatering, especially during dormancy; water at the base to keep foliage dry.
Soil
well-draining, sandy or loamy soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix designed for bulbs or succulents; ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils.
Temperature
Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates mild fluctuations but avoids extremes; dormant in winter below 50°F (10°C).
Avoid sudden temperature changes, protect from drafts, and adjust care based on seasonal needs.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth, none in dormancy
Fertilize sparingly to avoid burning roots; stop in dormancy; apply after watering to prevent shock.
Propagation
Methods
Division of bulbs or tubers; occasionally from seed.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Separate bulbs, plant 2–3 inches deep, water lightly, and provide warmth.
- For seed, sow shallowly and keep moist.
Best Time: Spring, when the plant is actively growing after dormancy.
Environment
Warm, humid conditions with indirect light; keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand; can also be propagated in water initially.
Hormone
Not typically required for bulb division, but can aid root development for cuttings.
Timeline
Bulbs may establish in 2–4 weeks; seed propagation can take several months.
Tools Needed
Clean knife or scissors, small pots, well-draining soil, water spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Handle bulbs carefully to avoid damage; keep seedlings in bright indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip leaves at the base with clean, sharp tools; avoid cutting into healthy growth.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning needed; focus on removing dead or yellowing foliage to maintain appearance and health.
Tools
Clean scissors or pruning shears.
Checklist
Check for dead leaves, use clean tools, cut at base, dispose of clippings, clean tools after use.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Late winter or early spring, before active growth begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot; ensure it has drainage holes.
Method
Gently remove plant, loosen roots, place in a slightly larger pot with fresh well-draining soil, water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when bulbs become crowded; best when the plant is dormant or just starting growth.
Checklist
Check root crowding, prepare new pot, handle bulbs carefully, use fresh soil, water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture, water deeply, ensure drainage, avoid leaf wetting, adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, ensuring even moisture reaches the root zone; avoid wetting leaves to prevent fungal issues; ensure proper drainage to prevent waterlogging.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply when the top inch of soil is dry; reduce watering in winter to prevent rot; increase frequency during active growth in spring/summer.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure soil is loose and airy.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves, stunted growth, bud drop, or wilting due to stress from extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes leaf drop, and may lead to root rot if soil remains wet in cold conditions.
Solution: Move to a warmer location, protect from drafts, reduce watering, and ensure good drainage.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, or premature flowering due to excessive heat and dry conditions.
Solution: Provide shade, increase humidity, water more frequently, and ensure adequate air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check season, dilute fertilizer, water before feeding, apply to soil, avoid foliage.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during active growth; avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal distress upon ingestion of Oxalis pes-caprae due to its oxalic acid content. Symptoms are generally not life-threatening but should be monitored.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicThe oxalic acid in Oxalis pes-caprae can cause mild gastrointestinal upset in dogs. Prolonged or large ingestion may lead to more severe symptoms.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicOxalis pes-caprae contains oxalic acid, which can interfere with calcium absorption and lead to metabolic disturbances. Ingestion may cause mild gastrointestinal irritation and discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Oxalis pes-caprae 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 pes-caprae?
A: Water moderately during the growing season, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Q: Why are the leaves of my Oxalis turning yellow?
A: Yellow leaves can indicate overwatering, poor drainage, or nutrient deficiencies.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Oxalidaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
