Violet Wood Sorrel (Oxalis violacea)

Violet Wood Sorrel

Oxalis violacea

Delicate violet blooms nod like tiny butterflies over clover-like leaves. Perennial herbaceous plant; common name: Violet Wood Sorrel.

Partial sun
1–2/week
Beginner
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Bright indirect light or partial shade; tolerate full sun in cool temperate climates, avoid intense midday summer sun
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Watering Water when the top 2 cm of soil feels dry; avoid waterlogging to prevent bulb rot
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Temperature Hardy to -10°C; prefers cool to temperate temperatures, enters dormancy during extreme heat or cold
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Characteristics

  • Leaf: Trifoliate, clover-shaped, bright green, folds inward at night
  • Flower: Five-petaled, violet to lavender, clustered at upright stem tips
  • Stem: Slender, smooth, green to reddish-brown, grows from underground bulbs
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Care Guide

Watering

Keep soil evenly moist but not waterlogged

Fertilization

Diluted balanced liquid feed every 4 weeks. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can lead to excessive foliage growth at the expense of blooms

Eggshell powder top-dress:Crush clean, dried eggshells into fine powder; sprinkle lightly on the soil surface and water in to slowly release calcium
Pruning
  • Remove spent flower stems to encourage extended blooming through early summer
  • Trim back yellowing or damaged foliage to maintain a tidy clumping habit
  • Divide overcrowded bulb clumps every 2–3 years in early spring to promote healthy growth
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA: Toxic; contains soluble calcium oxalates that may cause drooling, vomiting, and oral pain

Humans: Ingestion of large quantities may cause mild oral irritation and gastrointestinal upset

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: N/A

Usage: Ornamental ground cover, container plant, and pollinator-friendly garden addition