Violet woodsorrel - Oxalis violacea (Care, Characteristics, Flower, Images)

Violet woodsorrel

Also known as: Violet wood-sorrel

Native to much of the United States, Oxalis violacea sprouts from an underground bulb and can produce leaf stems between 6 to 13 cm tall. The flower clusters on these stems can reach heights of 9 to 23 cm. The appearance is not unlike that of a shamrock, and its lavender to white flowers bloom during spring.

Scientific classification

Species

Violet woodsorrel (Oxalis violacea)

Woodsorrels, quandongs, and allies

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Toxic to Pets

Toxicity

Perennial

Lifespan

Herb

Plant Type

Spring, Summer, Fall

Bloom Time

Yellow, Gold, Purple, Lavender

Leaf Color

2.5 cm to 5 cm

Flower Size

Pink, Purple

Flower Color

Deciduous

Leaf type

5 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Spring, Summer

Growth Season

Images of Violet woodsorrel

Distribution of Violet woodsorrel

Distribution Map

Violet woodsorrel is indigenous to the central-eastern and southern regions of North America. It has transcended its original range to include areas of the Caribbean and East Asia. Additionally, violet woodsorrel has found a foothold as a cultivated species beyond its native and introduced territories.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Woods, shaded slopes, gravelly banks, prairies

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Culture

Symbolism

Represent faith, As alluded to in shakespeare's hamlet.

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Toxicity

Violet woodsorrel is toxic to cats and dogs, posing significant health risks if consumed. All parts of the plant, including leaves, flowers, fruits, roots, seeds, stems, bark, and sap/juice, are dangerous. Symptoms include gastrointestinal upset and lethargy. Immediate veterinary care is crucial to ensure the best outcome.

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Quickly Identify Violet woodsorrel

Violet flowers with 5 heart-shaped petals, 0.4-0.8 inches (1-2 cm) in diameter.

Compound leaves resembling clover, with 3 heart-shaped leaflets, exhibiting a deep green hue with hints of purple.

Distinctive rose-purple flowers with flaring star-like shape and green sepals with orange tips.

Long-stalked leaves with 3 inversely heart-shaped leaflets, measuring 1.5-2 inches (4-5 cm) in length.

Unique color contrast of green upper side and reddish or purplish underside of leaves.

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Care Guide for Violet woodsorrel

Every week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

5 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Violet woodsorrel prefers consistently moist soil and thrives with weekly watering, especially during its active growing season to support growth and flowering. Though moderately drought-tolerant, adequate hydration aligns with its natural rainfall patterns for optimal health.

Fertilize: For violet woodsorrel, use a balanced fertilizer (10-10-10) monthly during the growing season and bi-monthly in winter. Apply half the dosage to avoid root burn, and apply after watering for better nutrient absorption. Monitor violet woodsorrel's response to adjust fertilization as needed.

Pruning: Violet woodsorrel features heart-shaped leaves and purple flowers. Light pruning in early to late spring promotes healthy growth and flowering. Trim overgrown areas to enhance air circulation and minimize disease risk, ensuring vibrant blooms. Avoid heavy pruning to maintain the plant's natural form for robust growth.

Propagation: Violet woodsorrel is a resilient perennial herb that thrives in partial shade and propagates easily through division of its rhizomes. Each segment should include several leaf nodes. This technique is forgiving for novices, leading to a garden adorned with clover-like foliage and lovely lavender flowers.

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Images of Violet woodsorrel

Distribution of Violet woodsorrel

Culture

Toxicity

Quickly Identify Violet woodsorrel

Care Guide for Violet woodsorrel

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