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Wood Sorrel

Oxalis Acetosella

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Overview

Wood Sorrel, or Oxalis acetosella, is a charming, low-growing perennial, reaching a modest height of 2-5 inches. Its trifoliate, clover-like leaves and delicate white, veined flowers give a woodland feel. Preferring partial to full shade, it thrives in well-drained, acidic soil. Hardy in zones 3-9, it spreads through rhizomes, making it ideal for ground cover. Adds whimsical beauty and attracts pollinators in a garden design.

Sun Full, Half, ShadeWater HighZones 9–10Climate Alpine

Culture

Sun
Full, Half, Shade
Water
High
USDA zones
9–10

Shape & size

Classification

Family
Oxalidaceae
Climate
Alpine

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Photos (170)

Wood Sorrel (Oxalis Acetosella) — carpet-like ground cover reaching 2 to 5 inches in height
Wood Sorrel (Oxalis Acetosella) — each measuring approximately 0.5 to 1 inch across
Wood Sorrel (Oxalis Acetosella) — Hardy in zones 3-9, it spreads through rhizomes, making it ideal for ground cover
Wood Sorrel (Oxalis Acetosella) — Preferring partial to full shade, it thrives in well-drained, acidic soil
Wood Sorrel (Oxalis Acetosella) — Adds whimsical beauty and attracts pollinators in a garden design
Wood Sorrel (Oxalis Acetosella) — the Wood Sorrel provides a lush
Wood Sorrel (Oxalis Acetosella) — veined flowers bloom from late spring to midsummer
Wood Sorrel (Oxalis Acetosella) — With its trifoliate leaves that resemble shamrocks
Wood Sorrel (Oxalis Acetosella) — adding a subtle pop of color with their yellow centers
Wood Sorrel (Oxalis Acetosella) — Each flower spans roughly 0.5 to 1 inch in diameter
Wood Sorrel (Oxalis Acetosella) — held aloft on stems that rise just above the foliage.<br><br>Wood Sorrel prefers partial to full shade
Wood Sorrel (Oxalis Acetosella) — making it an excellent choice for woodland gardens or shaded areas where many other plants may struggle
Wood Sorrel (Oxalis Acetosella) — well-draining soils rich in organic matter and typically flourishes in USDA Hardiness Zones 3 through 9
Wood Sorrel (Oxalis Acetosella) — This plant is not only aesthetically pleasing but also fascinating; its leaves exhibit nyctinasty
Wood Sorrel (Oxalis Acetosella) — meaning they fold up at night or in response to touch
Wood Sorrel (Oxalis Acetosella) — reopening with the light of day.<br><br>When designing a landscape
Wood Sorrel (Oxalis Acetosella) — Wood Sorrel can be incorporated as an understory plant paired with ferns
Wood Sorrel (Oxalis Acetosella) — and other shade-loving species
Wood Sorrel (Oxalis Acetosella) — or used to fill spaces between stepping stones and along garden paths
Wood Sorrel (Oxalis Acetosella) — Its low-maintenance and spreading habit create a visually appealing and cohesive green layer
Wood Sorrel (Oxalis Acetosella) — Its trifoliate, clover-like leaves and delicate white, veined flowers give a woodland feel
Wood Sorrel (Oxalis Acetosella) — reaching a modest height of 2-5 inches
Wood Sorrel (Oxalis Acetosella) — Clients will appreciate its whimsical form and the refreshing
Wood Sorrel (Oxalis Acetosella) — vibrant green it adds to shaded sections of their garden

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