Slender yellow woodsorrel - Oxalis dillenii (Taxonomy, Characteristics, Symbolism, Images, Control)

Slender yellow woodsorrel

Also known as: Common yellow woodsorrel

The slender yellow woodsorrel flowers have five yellow petals that are between 5 mm and 1.02 cm. The easily distinguishable leaves come in threes and are 1.02 to 2 cm wide. The slender yellow woodsorrel can be found globally with likely origins somewhere in North America.

Scientific classification

Species

Slender yellow woodsorrel (Oxalis dillenii)

Woodsorrels, quandongs, and allies

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Toxic to Pets

Toxicity

Weeds

Weed or not

Perennial

Lifespan

Herb

Plant Type

50 cm

Spread

Green

Leaf Color

2.5 mm to 8 mm

Flower Size

Brown

Fruit Color

Yellow

Flower Color

Winter dormancy

Dormancy

Evergreen

Leaf type

15 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Images of Slender yellow woodsorrel

Distribution of Slender yellow woodsorrel

Distribution Map

The slender yellow woodsorrel's range runs from Central and Eastern Canada to East Mexico, where its found in grasslands, prairies, and disturbed ecosystems. It has been introduced to other parts of North America and many European countries, as well as Korea. It is often considered a weed even within its native range.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Fields, Lawns, Woodland edges, Disturbed sites

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Culture

Garden Use

Slender yellow woodsorrel is used in landscapes as ornamental ground cover. This plant may be seen as an unwanted weed by some, but by others, its beauty in a pot gives the garden space a sense of grace. In warm areas, this plant will produce year-round blooms.

Symbolism

Joy, good-heartedness

Interesting Facts

Like other members of the genus Oxalis, slender yellow woodsorrel is an edible plant, rich in oxalic acid. The acid, responsible for the name of the genus, gives the leaves their refreshing, sour taste. However, because of the high oxalic acid content, slender yellow woodsorrel should not be consumed in large quantities.

Name Story

Slender yellow woodsorrel: Although it is considered as a grass weed, it has a lovely appearance similar to clover heart-shaped leaves sprouting bright yellow flowers. It also has a slender stem that sets off its tenderness. People gathered all these qualities and decided to call it the slender yellow woodsorrel.

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Toxicity

Slender yellow woodsorrel is mildly toxic, containing oxalic acid and potassium oxalate. It poses significant risks if ingested by cats and dogs, leading to physical discomfort and distress. All parts of the plant are toxic. Negative side effects are rare in humans if consumed in small amounts, but caution is advised for those with kidney issues, arthritis, gout, and hyperacidity.

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Weed Control

Native to the majority of states in the US, slender yellow woodsorrel is a weed found worldwide. While not considered strictly invasive, Oxalis dillenii is quite a pain to contain and is considered a weed in most countries. The taproots are tough, and colonies arise from the widespread root system. Slender yellow woodsorrel is problematic in lawns and gardens as it can completely take over any unoccupied space and is nearly impossible to completely eradicate. Hand pulling is the most effective means of removal, as the plant cannot re-sprout from damaged roots. Herbicides are typically not very effective.

How to Control It

The best time to remove 'slender yellow woodsorrel' is usually in the early spring or summer, before it has had a chance to spread or go to seed. Here are some organic and interesting methods to control or remove slender yellow woodsorrel:

Hand Pulling: Dig up the whole plant with its roots using a gardening tool. Be sure to remove as any tiny root fragments can potentially regrow. Dispose of the plants properly to prevent them from re-rooting.
Smothering: Cover the area with newspaper or cardboard, making sure no sunlight reaches the soil below. This will suffocate the plants and prevent them from growing.
Vinegar Spray: Combine equal parts of water and vinegar in a spray bottle. Spray it directly on the plant, specifically on warm, sunny days for the best results. The acetic acid will cause it to dry out and die.
Constant Mowing: Regularly mow or cut the plant close to the ground before it has a chance to seed. This gradually weakens the plant over time and restricts its growth.
Plant Competition: Plant dense, competitive species in the area to outcompete slender yellow woodsorrel. The more robust plants will absorb nutrients and block sunlight, limiting the resources available for slender yellow woodsorrel to grow.

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Care Guide for Slender yellow woodsorrel

Every week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

15 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Water: Slender yellow woodsorrel prefers consistent moisture with well-drained soil, requiring weekly watering to thrive. This drought-sensitive species flourishes indoors where humidity and hydration are manageable, essential for its vigorous growth and lush foliage during the growing season.

Fertilize: Slender yellow woodsorrel is a light feeder, requiring minimal fertilization if grown in balanced soil. Use half-strength liquid fertilizer every couple of months, avoiding feeding during winter dormancy. When repotting, incorporate organic compost for enhanced growth during the sprouting period.

Pruning: Prune slender yellow woodsorrel during winter dormancy when foliage withers. Remove dead leaves, a normal process, as they will regrow in 2 to 4 weeks. Always disinfect pruning tools to minimize cross-contamination.

Propagation: Slender yellow woodsorrel propagates easily via adventitious buds on its stems, making spring, summer, or autumn ideal for propagation. Successful signs include new growth from the stem. Selecting and preparing a healthy stem is crucial for effective propagation.

Repotting: Slender yellow woodsorrel requires outstanding drainage in pots to thrive, preventing waterlogging and ensuring healthy root development.

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Images of Slender yellow woodsorrel

Distribution of Slender yellow woodsorrel

Culture

Toxicity

Weed Control

Care Guide for Slender yellow woodsorrel

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