Pink sorrel
Oxalis articulata · Oxalidaceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant pink sorrel: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Foliage
- Deciduous to semi-evergreen depending on climate
- Blooming
- Spring to summer (April-September)
- Adult size
- 20-40 cm in height
- Growth
- Fast
- Hardiness
- Low hardy (down to -5°C)
- Origin
- South America (Argentina, Brazil)
- Soil type
- Well-drained, light, slightly acidic
Care
Watering
Water regularly during growth, keeping the soil moist but without waterlogging. Reduce watering in winter or during dormancy periods. Prefer soft, lukewarm water to prevent leaf yellowing.
Light Exposure
Place your oxalis in a bright location, preferably in partial shade. It tolerates slight shade but prefers indirect light. Avoid direct sun rays in very hot climates, which can scorch the leaves.
Soil and Potting Mix
Use a light and well-draining substrate, made up of universal potting soil mixed with sand or perlite. Soil that is too compact promotes rot of underground tubers.
Fertilizing
Apply balanced fertilizer every 2-3 weeks during the growing period (spring-summer). Stop fertilizing in autumn and winter to respect the plant's vegetative rest period.
Pruning and Maintenance
Remove faded flowers and yellow or damaged leaves regularly. Prune lightly in spring if the plant becomes too dense or untidy, never removing more than a third of the volume.
Diseases and Pests
Watch for spider mites in dry air and aphids indoors. Tuber rot can occur if there is excess moisture or poorly drained soil. Ventilate regularly and ensure good air circulation around the plant.
Did you know?
Articulated oxalis produces oxalates that give it a distinctive tart flavor, hence its Latin name. Some oxalis varieties are traditionally consumed in South American cuisine, but this species is primarily cultivated as an ornamental plant for its delicate small pink or white flowers and its very elegant finely cut foliage.
Where to buy it
Plant in spring or early autumn, avoiding spells of intense heat. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, April, May, September.
Add this plant to my garden →Plants from the same family
- OcaOxalis tuberosa
- Yellow sorrelOxalis corniculata
- Common wood sorrelOxalis stricta
- Oxalis perennansOxalis perennans
- Oxalis debilisOxalis debilis
- Slender yellow woodsorrelOxalis dillenii
Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.