Oxalis decaphylla aka Tenleaf Woodsorrel

Oxalis decaphylla produces purple or pink, five-petaled flowers in clusters of 5 to 12 per inflorescence. Each petal is 7–22 mm long, with a clawed base connate at the bottom. Bloom season runs from July through September at high-elevation sites.

The closest relative is Oxalis alpina, which looks very similar but has only 3 leaflets. Oxalis decaphylla is distinguished by having 5–12 leaflets per leaf. The synonym Oxalis grayi (Rose) R. Knuth refers to the same taxon.

Oxalis decaphylla is a native of high-elevation forests, scrublands, and grasslands at 1,700–3,200 m in Arizona, New Mexico, and Mexico. Outdoors it thrives in partly shaded spots with moist, well-drained, slightly acidic soil and benefits from a dormancy period after summer flowering. It can spread and occasionally become weedy in disturbed ground.

Oxalis decaphylla, like all wood-sorrels, contains soluble calcium oxalates throughout the plant. Large quantities are toxic to livestock, causing trembling, cramps, and staggering. The sour, lemon-like taste of the raw plant discourages bulk consumption. Small amounts of leaves, flowers, and roots are not considered acutely dangerous to humans.

The leaves, flowers, and roots are edible in small quantities and have a pleasantly sour, lemon-like flavor characteristic of the Oxalis genus. This flavor comes from soluble oxalic acid compounds, so bulk consumption is inadvisable — particularly for people with kidney issues or susceptibility to oxalate accumulation. The plant is not a staple food crop.

Oxalis decaphylla is adapted to cool mountain climates at 1,700–3,200 m elevation. As a cultivated plant, Oxalis in general prefers temperatures of 50–75°F (10–24°C). Many Oxalis species enter dormancy after summer flowering; at that point watering should be reduced and the plant moved to a cool, dark location until growth resumes.

This species flowers from July to September and then typically enters a dormant phase. During dormancy, reduce watering significantly and keep the plant in a cool, dark location. When new growth emerges, resume regular watering and gradually increase light exposure.

Oxalis decaphylla propagates via its creeping, woody rootstocks and small bulb-like structures (1–3 cm long). Division of the rootstock or separation of individual bulblets at the end of the growing season is the most reliable propagation method. The explosive seed capsules can also disperse seeds, enabling natural spread.

The regular, five-petaled flowers of Oxalis decaphylla are typical insect-pollinated blooms. Like other Oxalis species, the flowers likely attract bees, flies, and small butterflies during their July–September bloom period at high elevations.

The plant's sour leaves (the Spanish common name saladita means 'little salty one' and suggests culinary use) indicate local use as a condiment or salad flavoring in Mexico and the southwestern United States. No industrial or formal horticultural other-use data was identified in authoritative sources.

It requires well-drained, slightly acidic, moist soil and partial shade mimicking its native forest habitat. The need for a defined dormancy period and specific mountain-climate conditions makes it moderately challenging to grow outside its native range.

Yellowing leaves in Oxalis decaphylla most often signal the onset of natural dormancy following the summer bloom period. Overwatering can also cause yellowing; allow the soil to approach dryness before watering again. Nutrient deficiency or very low light may also contribute.

Brown leaf tips or margins in Oxalis typically indicate low humidity, salt buildup, or excessive direct sun. In O. decaphylla, browning can also mark the start of dormancy. Remove dead foliage and reduce watering if dormancy is suspected.

Drooping or wilting leaves usually indicate underwatering or, conversely, root rot from overwatering. Oxalis decaphylla naturally closes and droops its leaflets at night or in strong direct sun (nyctinasty / thigmonasty) — this is normal behaviour and not a sign of distress.

Complete leaf drop in Oxalis decaphylla is a normal part of dormancy after summer flowering. If leaf drop occurs outside the expected dormancy window it may indicate root rot, prolonged drought, or temperature extremes below the plant's tolerance.

Container-grown Oxalis is generally repotted every 1–2 years in spring when growth resumes after dormancy, using a well-drained, slightly acidic potting mix. Lift the rootstock carefully, refresh the medium, and replant at the original depth.

Dead or yellowed leaves can be removed by hand or with clean scissors during the active growing season to keep the plant tidy and prevent fungal issues. The small leaflets do not require dusting or wiping in the way thick-leaved houseplants do.

Pruning requirements for Oxalis decaphylla are minimal. Remove spent flower stalks and dead leaves as needed. After summer flowering and the onset of dormancy, cut back withered foliage to the soil level to allow the rootstock to rest cleanly.

Tenleaf Woodsorrel grows vertically and new growth emerges from the top of the plant.

Tenleaf Woodsorrel’s native range is Worldwide.

Tenleaf Woodsorrel should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Tenleaf Woodsorrel 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.

Tenleaf Woodsorrel 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 Ten Leaved Pink Sorrel.

No additional humidity is required for the Tenleaf Woodsorrel. Plants take in most of their water through their roots, not their leaves, therefore, watering the soil is the most effective way to supply humidity to your plants.

The growth rate of Tenleaf Woodsorrel is slow and it doesn't necessitate additional fertilizing. By changing the soil in its pot annually, the plant should be provided with adequate nutrition. It is crucial to keep in mind that plants derive their energy from the sun, not fertilizers.