What’s Growing in my Garden: Oxalis Corniculata

kalianieg
May 17
2 min read

close up of O. corniculata growing in my yard. — O. corniculata after it bloomed

What is this growing in my yard? I saw these little plants spring up in my garden lately. I’m not sure where they came from but they began taking over every single pot. Wondering if they were harmless, I decided to look them up online. I couldn’t find much on the exact species but I will share with you what I found.

They are from the genus Oxalis, of which there are more than 500 species in the genus. Only a few are documented online with information about them. Oxalis, also known as creeping woodsorrel, is a common plant found in my city. Sourgrass being the most abundant one you can find at parks or even in your backyard. These specific ones are called Oxalis corniculata. They are a green or dark purple, almost burgundy shade with little yellow five petaled flowers that pop up as the sun rises then closes when the sun becomes intense. Their seed pods are cone shaped, and when ripe they pop and scatter, distributing their seeds all around.

In small quantities Oxalis are edible, giving a lemony flavor when eaten. A good way to use them is by adding them to greens and salads. In large quantities consistently it can inhibit calcium absorption. So it’s best to not eat them so often if you plan to eat a bunch. You can also steep the plant into a tea with hot water then cool it in the fridge. Oxalis is packed with vitamin C just like any other leafy green. There are alos some medicinal benefits to the plant. Oxalis has been used in Taiwan’s indigenous community as an ointment for snake bites and scabies.

O. Corniculata is said to be native to South Eastern Asia and was later introduced to Italy. They are considered a weed due to its adaptability to grow and take over places. Spreading everywhere, they do well in moist environments.

Should you let it grow in your flower beds? It all depends on personal preferences. At the end of the day it scatters and spreads like a weed. It’s also very easy to pull out. It can be eaten and used so if you plan to eat them I think they will make a great addition. Many people let them grow to fill in empty spaces in their garden or as a ground cover which helps make the ground stay moist. They also do well in hanging baskets as flowers, attracting pollinators to your garden.

I’ve decided to leave them be for the time being, taking over the ground. I think they make the empty spots in my garden look fuller. I haven't tried eating them yet, but I have tried sourgrass in the past. A common plant you'd munch on as a kid during recess. Will you let these little weeds grow?