Creeping woodsorrel - Oxalis corniculata (Taxonomy, Characteristics, Invasive, Images, Control)

Creeping woodsorrel

Also known as: Yellow woodsorrel, Procumbent yellow sorrel

Creeping woodsorrel (Oxalis corniculata) is a flowering herb which grows aggressively. The leaves have a lemony flavor and are often made into tea that's rich in vitamin C. However, if ingested in large amounts the oxalic acid for which the genus is named can begin to block the body's calcium absorption.

Scientific classification

Species

Creeping woodsorrel (Oxalis corniculata)

Woodsorrels, quandongs, and allies

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Toxic to Pets

Toxicity

Weeds

Weed or not

Perennial

Lifespan

Herb

Plant Type

Summer, Fall

Bloom Time

Mid summer, Late summer, Early fall

Harvest Time

10 cm to 35 cm

Plant Height

45 cm

Spread

Green, Purple, Red

Leaf Color

4 mm to 5 mm

Flower Size

Green

Fruit Color

Yellow

Flower Color

Green, Purple, Red, Yellow

Stem Color

Winter dormancy

Dormancy

Deciduous

Leaf type

5 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Images of Creeping woodsorrel

Distribution of Creeping woodsorrel

Distribution Map

Creeping woodsorrel enjoys a broad geographical presence, natively growing in regions spanning Africa, Asia, central and southern parts of Europe, and the Americas. It has also been introduced across the continents, establishing itself in ecosystems from Scandinavia to Southeast Asia and from the Pacific islands to South America. Although creeping woodsorrel is sometimes thought to be opportunistic in certain areas, it may have an impact on native ecosystems where it is considered invasive, notably in parts of North America, Australasia, and East Asia.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Arable land, Waste places

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Culture

Garden Use

Creeping woodsorrel is a great addition to woodland or wildlife gardens, although care should be taken to make sure it does not crowd out other plants. It is also possible to grow this pretty plant in containers for courtyards. It is summer flowering, attracting a variety of pollinating insects.

Symbolism

Patriotism, luck, joy, good-heartedness

Interesting Facts

In Southern Europe, wood sorrel is also known as Hallelujah. Wood sorrel blossoms just around Easter, so the flower symbolizes Easter. People born with this flower blessing are active, talkative, often laugh, and get along well with others.

Name Story

Creeping woodsorrel: Many of the species are known as wood sorrels because they give out an acidic taste which is sort of the reminiscent of the sorrel proper plant. This plant has a narrow creeping stem and it spreads very easily, so it is called creeping woodsorrel.

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Toxicity

Creeping woodsorrel contains soluble calcium oxalates and oxalic acid, making it toxic to cats and dogs. Ingestion may lead to symptoms like gastrointestinal upset, vomiting, and diarrhea. Immediate veterinary care is essential if poisoning is suspected. The plant also poses risks for conditions like rheumatism, arthritis, and kidney stones due to its calcium-binding properties.

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Weed Control

Creeping woodsorrel is found throughout the world and is considered invasive in parts of every continent. It is capable of self-pollinating and produces massive amounts of seeds in short timeframes. This growth affects crops, gardens, and greenhouses across the world. As the plant can grow year-round in greenhouses, creeping woodsorrel poses a particular problem for these growers. Removal is extremely difficult due to the high level of seeds. Hand-weeding and covering seeds with mulch are the simplest means of controlling the spread. Following up pulling with an herbicide is the best way to eliminate the plant completely.

How to Control It

The best season for removing creeping woodsorrel is during the spring season, before the weed has started to flower and set seeds. This will help prevent the spreading of seeds and future growth.

Manual Pulling: For this method, soil should be first moistened to make the root removal easier. Then handle the plant at its base and gently pull up to uproot the whole plant. Make sure every piece of the root is removed to prevent regrowth.
Smothering: This method requires a piece of cardboard or several layers of newspaper. Cover the creeping woodsorrel with the material and secure it with stones or other heavy objects. This blocks sunlight and air, ultimately killing the plant.
Organic Herbicides: Use organic herbicides like vinegar or citric acid, which you can dilute with water. Spray this solution directly onto the creeping woodsorrel in the morning when the sunlight can enhance the effects.
Landscape Fabric: Spread a piece of landscape fabric over the area of creeping woodsorrel and tuck it into the topsoil. The fabric acts as a barrier, preventing the plant from receiving sunlight, thus inhibiting its growth.

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Quickly Identify Creeping woodsorrel

Trifoliolate leaves with heart-shaped leaflets, folding rhythmically at night.

Bright yellow flowers in umbel inflorescence, 1-5 per cluster.

Cylindrical five-sided fruit capsule with stiff hairs, bursting for seed dispersal.

Heart-shaped, trifolate leaves with pubescent green or purple foliage.

Slender stems with above and below-ground stolons, branching for lateral spread.

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Care Guide for Creeping woodsorrel

Every week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

5 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Water: Creeping woodsorrel thrives in moist conditions, requiring consistent hydration and evenly moist soil. To maintain its health, water creeping woodsorrel weekly. This herbaceous plant can grow in both sunny and shaded areas, with water availability directly affecting its growth and flowering patterns.

Fertilize: Creeping woodsorrel is a light feeder, requiring minimal additional fertilizer if planted in balanced soil. Use a half-strength all-purpose liquid fertilizer every few months, avoiding feeding during winter dormancy. When repotting, incorporate organic compost to enhance growth during the sprouting phase.

Pruning: Creeping woodsorrel needs pruning only during winter dormancy, indicated by withering foliage. Remove dead leaves as they turn brown; this is normal. New growth may emerge in 2 to 4 weeks. Always disinfect pruning tools to prevent cross-contamination.

Propagation: Creeping woodsorrel is propagated mainly by tubers in spring, indicating successful propagation through new shoots. For optimal growth, gently remove and replant tubers when necessary.

Repotting: Ensure creeping woodsorrel has excellent drainage in pots to promote healthy growth and prevent root rot.

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Images of Creeping woodsorrel

Distribution of Creeping woodsorrel

Culture

Toxicity

Weed Control

Quickly Identify Creeping woodsorrel

Care Guide for Creeping woodsorrel

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