Creeping woodsorrel, Procumbent yellow sorrel, Sleeping beauty, Oxalide corniculée, Trèfle cornu, Sureau des oiseaux
Oxalis corniculata
🌿 Morphology
🌞 Growing conditions
🌍 Origin and family
🌾 Uses
Warning: Despite the care taken in writing this sheet, it is essential to cross-reference sources before using or consuming any plant. When in doubt, consult a qualified professional
Permaculture uses
Leaves, flowers, and immature seed pods are edible, offering a tart, lemony flavor. Contains oxalic acid, so consume in moderation. Can be used as a ground cover to suppress weeds. Useful as a green manure. Attracts beneficial insects.
Permapeople description
Oxalis corniculata, the creeping woodsorrel or procumbent yellow sorrel, is a somewhat invasive plant in the family Oxalidaceae. It is native to much of the world. It has a narrow, creeping stem that roots readily at the nodes.
Botanical description
Oxalis corniculata is a creeping perennial plant in the wood-sorrel family Oxalidaceae. It has a slender, creeping stem that roots at the nodes. The leaves are trifoliate, resembling clover, and typically green but sometimes reddish or purplish. The flowers are small, yellow, and five-petaled, occurring in clusters. Seed pods are cylindrical and pointed, explosively releasing seeds when ripe. It is a cosmopolitan species, found in a wide range of habitats.
Companion planting
Generally considered a neutral companion. Can be invasive in some situations, potentially competing with smaller plants. No strong documented beneficial or detrimental relationships with specific plants.
Propagation methods
Seed sowing, division of established plants, stem cuttings (although less reliable). Self-seeds readily.
History and traditions
Historically, Oxalis species were used medicinally for various ailments, including skin conditions and as a diuretic. In some cultures, the leaves were chewed to quench thirst or used as a sour flavoring agent. There are records of use in traditional medicine across many regions.
Usage calendar
Flowering: Spring to Fall. Harvesting (leaves, flowers, seed pods): Spring to Fall. Planting: Spring or Fall. Division: Spring or Fall.