Rose Oxalis, Pink Wood Sorrel
oxalis drummondii
Also known as: ["Pink Wood Sorrel","Rose Oxalis"]
Overview
A herbaceous perennial with clover-like leaves and delicate pink or white flowers, native to Australia.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Oxalidales |
| Family: | Oxalidaceae |
| Genus: | Oxalis |
| Botanical Name: | Oxalis drummondii |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: indoor pot or outdoor garden bed in a sheltered spot
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"8–10"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging and root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining potting mix with added perlite or sand; can include some organic matter for fertility.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- 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 to control size.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; can tolerate partial shade; adjust for seasonal light changes.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense light to avoid scorching; place in a spot with filtered light if outdoors; indoors, keep near an east or west-facing window.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter direct sun; avoid south-facing windows in summer.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in dormancy
Water thoroughly but allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overwatering, especially in winter; ensure good drainage to prevent waterlogging.
Soil
well-draining, sandy loam with some organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix designed for succulents or cacti; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates cooler temperatures but avoid frost; prefers moderate warmth during active growth.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from cold drafts; maintain consistent warmth during active growth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth, none in dormancy
Dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; fertilize only during active growth; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division of rhizomes; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a healthy stem cutting.
- Apply rooting hormone if desired.
- Plant in moist propagation medium.
- Keep warm and humid.
- Wait for roots to develop.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture without waterlogging.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand; can also root in water initially.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is optional but can improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots may appear in 2–4 weeks; new growth in 6–8 weeks; full establishment in 3–4 months.
Tools Needed
Sharp scissors or knife, rooting hormone (optional), small pots, well-draining soil mix.
Quick Tips
Use clean tools to prevent disease; keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back stems to encourage branching; trim spent flowers to promote new blooms.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove spent flowers or yellowing leaves.
Tools
Sharp, clean scissors or pruning shears.
Checklist
Use clean tools; prune dead or yellowing leaves; remove spent flowers; shape as desired.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot one size larger than the current one; ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Gently remove the plant; trim any dead roots; place in a new pot with fresh soil; water lightly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 1–2 years or when the plant becomes root-bound; beneficial for growth and health.
Checklist
Select appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust frequency seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, targeting the root zone; water until it drains from the bottom; avoid wetting foliage to prevent fungal issues; water in the morning to allow foliage to dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply when the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot; increase during active growth in spring and summer.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure soil is loose and airy.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, or stunted growth in cold; leaf drop or scorching in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and can cause dormancy; prolonged cold may damage roots or lead to rot.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; protect from drafts; reduce watering in cooler conditions; use a heat mat if necessary.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause leaf scorch, wilting, or premature dormancy; may lead to dehydration.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging; move to a cooler spot if possible.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; fertilize during growing season; avoid winter feeding; flush soil periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength; fertilize every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer; avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal distress if they ingest Oxalis drummondii. 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 drummondii can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset due to the presence of oxalic acid. While generally not life-threatening, large amounts may cause discomfort and potential metabolic effects.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicOxalis drummondii contains oxalic acid, which can cause mild gastrointestinal irritation and discomfort when ingested in significant quantities. The oxalic acid binds with calcium in the body, potentially leading to mild metabolic disturbances.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Oxalis drummondii 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 drummondii?
A: Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Q: Does Oxalis drummondii attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds with its flowers.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Oxalidaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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