European Wood-sorrel, Common Yellow Woodsorrel, Upright Yellow Woodsorrel, Lemon Clover
Oxalis europaea
🌿 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 and seed pods are edible raw, with a pleasant lemony flavor due to oxalic acid. They can be added to salads or used as a garnish. The plant has some medicinal uses, including as a diuretic and antiscorbutic. It can also be used as a ground cover, though it can be invasive in some areas. No noteworthy subspecies or cultivars for permaculture purposes.
Permapeople description
Oxalis europaea is a species in the genus Oxalis native to Europe. It is a common weed of gardens and fields.
Botanical description
Oxalis europaea, now often considered a synonym of Oxalis stricta, is an herbaceous perennial plant with trifoliate leaves resembling clover. The leaves are typically green but can have reddish tints, especially in full sun. It grows upright or spreading, typically reaching heights of 4-12 inches. The flowers are small, yellow, and five-petaled, blooming from spring to fall. The plant produces small, capsule-like seed pods that explode when ripe, dispersing seeds widely. It spreads readily by seed and rhizomes, often forming dense mats.
Companion planting
No specific companion planting information widely available. Generally, Oxalis can be an aggressive spreader, so be mindful of its potential to outcompete smaller or slower-growing plants. Some sources suggest it may be allelopathic, inhibiting the growth of nearby plants, but this is not definitively proven.
Propagation methods
Propagation can be achieved through several methods: sowing seeds (though germination can be variable), division of rhizomes, and stem cuttings. Division is generally the easiest and most reliable method.
History and traditions
Traditionally, Oxalis species have been used in various cultures for their medicinal properties, including treating fever, scurvy, and as a diuretic. The leaves have also been used to quench thirst and as a refreshing addition to drinks. In some cultures, it was a common wild edible, particularly for children.
Usage calendar
Flowering occurs from spring to fall (May-October). Leaves can be harvested for consumption throughout the growing season. Seed pods ripen and disperse throughout the summer and fall. Best time for division or planting is in early spring or fall.