Common Yellow Woodsorrel (Oxalis stricta)

Common Yellow Woodsorrel

Oxalis stricta

Its clover-like leaves fold at dusk, a quiet daily rhythm. Low-growing herbaceous perennial; common name: common yellow woodsorrel.

Partial sun
2–3/week
Beginner
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Prefers partial sun to full shade; tolerates brief direct morning sun but avoids harsh midday sun to prevent leaf scorch
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Watering Water when the top 1–2 cm of soil dries; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot and fungal growth
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Temperature Thrives in temperate conditions; tolerates light frost but prefers consistent 15–25°C for optimal growth
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Characteristics

  • Leaf: Trifoliate, clover-like leaflets, green to reddish-green, fold inward at night
  • Flower: Bright yellow, five-petaled, star-shaped blooms
  • Stem: Slender, branching, somewhat succulent stems
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Care Guide

Watering

Keep soil evenly moist but not waterlogged; allow top layer to dry between waterings

Fertilization

Diluted balanced fertilizer every 2 weeks. Cease fertilization in autumn to support natural dormancy

Eggshell powder top-dressing:Grind dried eggshells into fine powder; sprinkle lightly on soil surface every month to add calcium without burning roots
Pruning
  • Deadhead spent blooms to encourage continuous flowering throughout the growing season
  • Trim back leggy stems in mid-summer to maintain a compact, tidy habit
  • Remove yellowing foliage to improve airflow and reduce disease risk
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA: Toxic; contains soluble calcium oxalates that cause oral irritation and digestive distress

Humans: Ingestion of large quantities may cause mild gastrointestinal upset due to soluble calcium oxalates

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: N/A

Usage: Ornamental ground cover; leaves have a tangy, citrus-like flavor and are edible in small quantities