Ecklon’s Wood-Sorrel

(Oxalis eckloniana)

Ecklon’s Wood-Sorrel (Oxalis eckloniana)

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Climate Requirements

Precipitation 15" - 30"
High Temp. 76°F - 87°F
Low Temp. 43°F - 48°F

Summary

Oxalis eckloniana, commonly known as Ecklon’s Wood-Sorrel, South African Wood-Sorrel, or Cape Shamrock, is a perennial herb that is native to a variety of habitats in South Africa, including grasslands, open woodlands, and forest edges. It is often found in disturbed areas, gardens, lawns, and shaded woodland. This plant typically grows rapidly to a height and width of 0.5-1 feet (0.15-0.3 meters), forming clumps of clover-like foliage. The leaves are trifoliate, resembling a shamrock, and are a bright green color. Oxalis eckloniana produces pink or white flowers that are quite showy, blooming profusely in the spring and summer months.

The plant is valued for its ornamental flowers and its ability to fill in as ground cover in garden settings. It is also used in containers and hanging baskets for its attractive foliage and flowers. In cultivation, it thrives in full sun to part shade and prefers medium or fast-draining sandy or loamy soils. It requires medium amounts of water, making it relatively easy to maintain. While it is not known for serious pest or disease problems, it can be susceptible to rust. Manage spread in regions where growth is especially vigorous, as it can expand by bulbils and seeds.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Herb
  • Height: 0.5-1 feet
  • Width: 0.5-1 feet
  • Growth Rate: Rapid
  • Flower Color: Pink, White
  • Flowering Season: Spring, Summer
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
  • Drainage: Medium, Fast

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Border Plant, Groundcover, Low Maintenance, Potted Plant

Natural Habitat

native to a variety of habitats in South Africa, including grasslands, open woodlands, and forest edges

Other Names

Common Names: South African Wood-Sorrel, Cape Shamrock

Scientific Names: Oxalis eckloniana, Acetosella eckloniana, Oxalis purpurea, Oxalis purpurea var. aurantiaca, Oxalis purpurea var. hopefieldiana, Oxalis salmonicolor, Oxalis sulphurea

GBIF Accepted Name: Oxalis eckloniana