Creeping woodsorrel
Also known as
Procumbent yellow-sorrel, Creeping yellow woodsorrel, Creeping oxalis, Yellow sorrel, Oxalis
Keep this plant’s care guide close at hand.
Get the appAbout Creeping woodsorrel
Oxalis corniculata, commonly called creeping woodsorrel, is a low, mat-forming perennial herb that spreads by slender, rooting stems. Its trifoliate, heart-shaped leaflets range from green to bronze-purple and fold at night or in heat (nyctinasty). Cheerful, five-petaled yellow flowers are produced much of the year in mild climates, followed by narrow, five-valved capsules that discharge seed explosively, enabling rapid colonization of disturbed soils, lawns, planters, and cracks in pavement. Plants typically rise 5–15 cm tall yet can blanket wide areas, thriving in compacted, nutrient-poor, or well-drained substrates. Although often treated as a lawn and garden weed, the tangy leaves are edible in small amounts and have been used in traditional remedies; however, high oxalate content warrants moderation. As a container accent or informal groundcover, it’s easy, drought-tolerant once established, and tolerant of partial shade, but can be invasive in warm regions if allowed to set seed. Regular grooming and moisture management keep plants dense, tidy, and floriferous.
Taxonomy
Properties & Requirements
How to care for Creeping woodsorrel
Water
Water thoroughly, then allow the top 1–2 cm (0.5–1 in) of soil to dry before watering again. In containers, use the soak-and-drain method to avoid waterlogging; never leave the pot standing in a saucer of water. Outdoors, established plants tolerate brief dry spells, but regular, light irrigation keeps growth dense and flowers coming. Reduce frequency in cool seasons or when plants partly shut down during heat or drought. Yellowing, limp leaves usually indicate overwatering or poor drainage.
Light
Full sun to bright partial shade suits this species. For compact mats and abundant bloom, provide at least 3–4 hours of direct sun daily. In very hot or arid regions, shift exposure to morning sun with dappled afternoon shade to prevent leaf scorch and reduce water stress. Too little light causes leggy, open growth and sparse flowers. Indoors, place near an east or west window, or bright south light filtered by a sheer curtain; supplement with LEDs in winter.
Nutrients
Oxalis corniculata is a light feeder. In containers, mix a slow-release balanced fertilizer at label rate in spring, or apply a half-strength balanced liquid (e.g., 10-10-10 or 5-5-5) monthly during active growth. Withhold fertilizer in winter or during heat/drought dormancy. In the ground, annual compost is usually sufficient; avoid high-nitrogen products that encourage rank, weedy growth and excessive seeding. Periodically flush containers with plain water to prevent salt buildup, which can reduce flowering and burn roots.
Temperature
Best growth occurs between 15–27°C (59–81°F). Plants tolerate brief dips near 5°C (41°F) with some leaf loss, but prolonged or hard freezes can kill top growth; they often reappear from seed when warmth returns. In hot climates, growth continues at 32–35°C (90–95°F) if soil moisture is adequate and midday shade is provided. Avoid placing containers against heat-reflective surfaces. Indoors, keep typical room temperatures and protect from drafts or drying heating vents.
