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BulbsHerbaceous Perennial

Oxalis acetosella

common wood sorrel

A rhizomatous spreading perennial up to 10cm in height when in flower, with leaves of three heart-shaped, folded green leaflets. Among the leaves delicate flower stems bear single, funnel-shaped white flowers with fine pink veins, from spring to midsummer

Other common names
alleluia
cuckoo bread
see morecuckoo meat
cuckoo sorrel
cuckooflower
fairy bells
French sorrel
gowk meat
hallelujah
hearts
lady's clover
little gentle one
marsh clover
sleeping beauty
sleeping clover
sleeping Molly
sow trefoil
St Cecilia's flower
St Patrick's cross
stabwort
stubwort
wood sorrel
wood sower
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Size
Ultimate height
0.1–0.5 metres
Time to ultimate height
2–5 years
Ultimate spread
0.1–0.5 metres
Growing conditions
Sand
Loam
Clay
Moisture
Moist but well–drained
pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring White Pink Green
Summer White Pink Green
Autumn Green
Winter
Position
  • Partial shade
Aspect

South–facing or West–facing or East–facing

Exposure
Sheltered
Hardiness
H5
Botanical details
Family
Oxalidaceae
Native to the UK
Yes
Foliage
Deciduous
Habit
Matforming
Genus

Oxalis can be annuals or perennials, with fibrous, bulbous or rhizomatous rootstocks, palmately divided leaves and funnel-shaped or bowl-shaped flowers that mostly close in dull weather and at night

Name status

Correct

How to grow

Cultivation

Grow in moderately fertile, humus-rich, well-drained soil in dappled shade

Propagation

Propagate by division in spring; small sections of rhizome root easily with bottom heat or from seed

Suggested planting locations and garden types
  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Banks and slopes
  • Ground cover
Pruning

No pruning required

Pests

May be susceptible to slugs and snails outdoors

Diseases

May be susceptible to rust diseases

Get involved

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