Also known as Common Sorrel · Spiral Woodsorrel · Velvet Oxalis
Spiral Sorrel (Oxalis spiralis) is a captivating perennial with unique spiraling leaves and bright yellow flowers, native to South America.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Bright Indirect Light
75% intensity
Prefers bright, indirect sunlight. Avoid intense direct sun which can scorch leaves.
Moderate
50% intensity
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
Well-drained
50% intensity
Moderate
50% intensity
Prefers average room temperatures between 18-24°C. Protect from frost.
Outdoor
50% intensity
Moderate
50% intensity
Feed monthly during growing season with diluted liquid fertilizer.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water consistently to keep the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged. Allow the top 2-3 cm of soil to dry out slightly between waterings.
Reduce watering during winter dormancy, but do not let the soil become completely dry. Ensure good drainage to prevent root rot.
Prune to maintain shape and remove any dead or damaged foliage. Pinch back stems to encourage bushier growth. If the plant becomes leggy, a more significant trim can rejuvenate it.
Pruning is generally minimal and focused on tidiness.
Easily propagated from division of tubers or offsets during repotting. Seeds can also be sown in spring.
Gently separate the small tubers or small plantlets from the parent plant and pot them individually in well-draining soil.
Repot every 1-2 years or when the pot becomes crowded, typically in spring before new growth begins. Use a well-draining potting mix.
Choose a pot that is only slightly larger than the current one to avoid overwatering issues.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Spiral Sorrel (Oxalis spiralis)
Where Spiral Sorrel (Oxalis spiralis) 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 spiralis |
Similar in genus Oxalis
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
