Oxalis articulata aka Pink Sorrel

Taxonomy

Oxalis articulata, also known as pink-sorrel, pink wood sorrel, windowbox wood-sorrel, Chari amilo (Nepal), sourgrass, Netho (khatta) saag (India), is a useful perennial plant species in the genus Oxalis. It is native to temperate South America but has been introduced to European gardens, where it has become naturalized. This clump-forming, deciduous perennial can grow up to 45cm tall and features green, clover-like, three-lobed leaves on long stalks. It produces masses of bright pink flowers in umbels on long flower stems throughout the summer. The flowers typically have pink to violet petals that are 10-15 mm long. The plant is susceptible to rust, a disease caused by the fungus Puccinia oxalidis. Oxalis articulata is characterized by plants arising from a thick, woody, irregularly nodulate-segmented rhizome, often with persistent, thickened, and lignescent petiole bases. If you wish to get rid of this plant, specific methods for removal are not mentioned in the descriptions provided.

Common names

Pink Sorrel, Shamrock Oxalis, Large Leaf Wood Sorrel

How to care for Pink Sorrel

Difficulty

Pink Sorrel presents a moderate level of care, which allows plant enthusiasts with some experience to expand their skills and knowledge.

Water

Pink Sorrel should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Soil

Pink Sorrel loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.

Lighting

Pink Sorrel thrives in bright and direct sunlight. To ensure your plant receives enough light to survive, place it less than one foot from a window. The current weather in your area may affect the placement in your home. For example, if you live in a region that has longer and more intense periods of sunlight, then you may want to place the plant farther away from the window to avoid direct sunlight and reduce the risk of sunburn. Alternatively, if you live in a region with relatively milder temperatures and less intense sunlight, then you may be able to place the plant closer to the window for increased exposure. Ultimately, the current weather in your area should be taken into consideration when determining the best placement for your Large Leaf Wood Sorrel.

Toxicity

Pink Sorrel is poisonous if ingested. We suggest keeping this plant out of reach if you have children, cats, or dogs in the home.

Humidity

No extra humidity is necessary for the Pink Sorrel. Absorption of water by plants is primarily done through their roots, and soil watering is the most effective method to provide humidity to your plants.

Fertilizer

The Pink Sorrel is characterized by its slow growth and doesn't need fertilization in addition to its potting soil. By renewing the soil in its pot once a year, it should have enough nutrition. Remember, plants get their energy from sunlight, not from any fertilizers.

Growth-pattern

Clumping is a defining characteristic of the Pink Sorrel, with new growth appearing from the soil surrounding the primary plant.

Region of origin

Pink Sorrel’s native range is Worldwide.

More info:
Wikipedia