ExplorePlants

Oxalis

Oxalis

Oxalis, also known as wood sorrel, is a cheerful little flower that often has pretty, heart-shaped leaves. It can be found in gardens and meadows, bringing a splash of color to nature.

Habitat: Gardens and meadows

Appearance

The Oxalis genus features plants with distinctive clover-like leaves, often heart-shaped and grouped in three. Its delicate flowers bloom in various shades of pink, yellow, white, or purple. It differs from true clover (Trifolium) by its distinctly folded, heart-shaped leaflets.

KingdomPlantaePhylumTracheophytaClassMagnoliopsidaOrderOxalidalesFamilyOxalidaceaeGenusOxalis
Oxalis
flowering trait badgeornamental trait badgeshade_tolerant trait badgespring_blooming trait badge
Oxalis

Category

Plants

Rarity

Common

Danger

1/5 · Very low

Snaps

Be the first to snap!

Interesting facts

One Oxalis, called Oca, has yummy root tubers that people eat like potatoes!

Some Oxalis leaves have patterns or purple undersides, making them super beautiful.

The name "Oxalis" comes from a Greek word meaning "sour," describing its tangy taste!

There are over 800 different kinds of Oxalis found all around the world!

Special abilities

Ability

Sleepy Leaves

Oxalis can fold its leaves down at night or in bright sun to protect itself and conserve water.

Ability

Seed Popper

Some Oxalis can forcefully launch their tiny seeds, helping them spread quickly to new spots.

Ability

Flavorful Defense

Oxalis has oxalic acid in its leaves, giving it a sour taste that deters hungry animals.

Ability

Hidden Stores

Many Oxalis species grow small bulbs or rhizomes underground, storing energy to survive harsh conditions.

Measurements & details

Height
5-30 cm
Spread
10-40 cm
Flower Size
0.5-2 cm
Bloom Season
Spring, Summer, Fall
Edible
Yes
Toxicity
Mild
Lifecycle
Perennial
Pollination Method
Insect

Ecological connections

pollinates

Honey Bee

Apis mellifera

collects nectar and pollen

pollinates

Buff-tailed Bumblebee

Bombus terrestris

collects nectar and pollen

eaten by

European Rabbit

Oryctolagus cuniculus

grazes on leaves and stems

eaten by

Garden Snail

Helix aspersa

feeds on leaves and young shoots

Traits

Also known as

No aliases listed yet.

Collections

Safety

Danger

1/5 · Very low

Always check with an adult before touching or tasting plants.

Frequently Asked Questions

How tall is Oxalis?

5-30 cm

How wide does Oxalis spread?

10-40 cm

How big are the flowers on Oxalis?

0.5-2 cm

When does Oxalis bloom?

Spring, Summer, Fall

Is Oxalis edible?

Yes

Is Oxalis toxic?

Mild

What is Oxalis's lifecycle?

Perennial

How is Oxalis pollinated?

Insect

Snap Map

Zoom in to split clusters and explore where this object has been snapped.

Loading map…

Recent Snaps

Recent snaps will appear here as new observations are added.

Where to spot

More Plants