Pink-sorrel - Oxalis articulata (Care, Characteristics, Flower, Images, Toxic)

Pink-sorrel

Also known as: Pink wood sorrel, Oxalis

Pink-sorrel (Oxalis articulata) is a perennial flowering plant that grows in temperate climates throughout its native South America. Pink-sorrel is popular for ornamental ground cover growth in China and Turkey. It is susceptible to fungal disease.

Scientific classification

Species

Pink-sorrel (Oxalis articulata)

Woodsorrels, quandongs, and allies

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Toxic to Pets

Toxicity

Weeds

Weed or not

Perennial

Lifespan

Herb

Plant Type

Summer, Early fall

Bloom Time

Mid fall

Harvest Time

45 cm

Plant Height

2 cm

Spread

Green, Red

Leaf Color

Winter dormancy

Dormancy

Evergreen, Deciduous

Leaf type

10 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Spring, Fall

Growth Season

Images of Pink-sorrel

Distribution of Pink-sorrel

Distribution Map

Native to South America, pink-sorrel is a plant with a significant environmental footprint that extends well beyond its original habitat. It is widely introduced and cultivated in various regions across Europe, Asia, North America, and Oceania. The plant thrives in its introduced ranges, spreading across continents and adapting to diverse climates.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Cultivated Beds

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Flowering

Fruiting

Culture

Garden Use

Pink-sorrel produces swaths of long-lasting mauve blooms from spring till fall, making it one of the few ornamentally valuable species of clover. This plant is great as a groundcover or along borders, especially in areas where weeds are prolific, as it is a major deterrent for unwanted plants.

Symbolism

Joy, Maternal Tenderness

Interesting Facts

A very forgiving plant that can tolerate neglect, pink-sorrel makes a great ground cover that prevents the spread of weeds. Its leaves and roots release allelopathic biochemicals that penetrate the soil and inhibit the growth of unwanted or invasive species of weeds. Due to its antifungal properties, pink-sorrel has often been planted as a natural substitute for herbicide.

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Toxicity

Pink-sorrel is a mildly toxic plant. All parts are poisonous to cats and dogs, causing gastrointestinal issues like vomiting and diarrhea. Ingesting large quantities prevents calcium absorption, leading to nutritional imbalances. People with arthritis, rheumatism, kidney stones, gout, and hyperacidity should avoid it. Immediate veterinary care is necessary if pets exhibit symptoms after ingesting pink-sorrel parts.

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Quickly Identify Pink-sorrel

Ternate compound leaves fold at night.

Distinctive 5-petaled flowers in pink, white, magenta.

Height up to 12 inches (30 cm) with stemless growth.

Toxic leaves containing oxalates.

Dehiscent capsule fruit ejects seeds for propagation.

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Care Guide for Pink-sorrel

Every week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

10 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Pink-sorrel thrives in consistent moisture and demonstrates moderate drought tolerance. It prefers weekly watering to maintain health, flourishing as an outdoor ornamental when soil moisture mimics natural rainfall patterns, promoting vegetative growth and flowering potential.

Fertilize: Pink-sorrel thrives with balanced fertilizers applied monthly during growing seasons to enhance bloom vibrancy and vigor. Use diluted concentrations to prevent root burn, adjust feeding seasonally, and consider controlled-release formulations for consistent nutrients. Always adhere to label instructions for application rates.

Pruning: Pink-sorrel exhibits clover-like leaves and bright pink flowers. Prune in early to late spring to enhance bushiness and blooms. Trim faded flowers and overgrown stems to maintain health and aesthetics, while using sharp, clean tools to prevent disease.

Propagation: Pink-sorrel propagates mainly through adventitious buds on its stems, most successfully in Spring, Summer, and Autumn. Propagation is moderately difficult, with successful signs being new shoots and roots. Keep the new plant moist during rooting for optimal results.

Repotting: Pink-sorrel is a compact herbaceous perennial that benefits from repotting every 2-3 years in early spring. Use a slightly larger pot with good drainage, ensure bright, indirect light, and keep the soil evenly moist for optimal recovery and vibrant growth.

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Images of Pink-sorrel

Distribution of Pink-sorrel

Culture

Toxicity

Quickly Identify Pink-sorrel

Care Guide for Pink-sorrel

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