Also known as 'ihi · Creeping Ladies'-Sorrel · Creeping Lady's-Sorrel
Safety note: This plant may be toxic to humans and pets. See toxicity details.
Creeping Woodsorrel (Oxalis corniculata) is a low-growing, mat-forming perennial with clover-like leaves and small yellow flowers, often considered an invasive weed.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Bright, indirect
75% intensity
Prefers bright, indirect light. Can tolerate partial shade, but may become leggy.
Regular
50% intensity
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Allow top layer to dry slightly between waterings.
Well-drained, adaptable to various soil types
50% intensity
Average Room
50% intensity
Thrives in average room temperatures between 18-24°C. Avoid extreme fluctuations and cold drafts.
Outdoor
50% intensity
Light
25% intensity
Feed monthly during growing season with diluted balanced liquid fertilizer. Avoid over-fertilizing.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | Yes 3/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | Yes 4/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
Contains oxalic acid, which can cause stomach upset, kidney damage, and in severe cases, hypocalcemia. Particularly dangerous to livestock grazing on large quantities.
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water regularly to keep the soil consistently moist, but avoid waterlogging. Allow the top centimeter of soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Reduce watering frequency during cooler months when growth slows down.
Ensure good drainage to prevent root rot.
Prune to maintain shape and encourage bushier growth. Trim back leggy stems, removing up to one-third of the plant's length. Deadhead spent flowers regularly to prevent self-seeding and prolong blooming.
Pruning also helps to keep the plant tidy.
Creeping Woodsorrel is easily propagated by division of clumps in spring or autumn. Stem cuttings can also be taken and rooted in moist soil or water. It readily self-seeds, often naturalizing in suitable conditions.
Repot every 1-2 years in spring when the plant becomes root-bound or the soil is depleted. Use a well-draining potting mix. Choose a pot only slightly larger than the current one.
Repotting revitalizes the plant and provides fresh nutrients.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Creeping Woodsorrel (Oxalis corniculata)
Where Creeping Woodsorrel (Oxalis corniculata) is found
Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Oxalidales |
| Family | Oxalidaceae |
| Genus | Oxalis |
| Species | Oxalis corniculata |
Similar in genus Oxalis
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
