Pink Wood Sorrel: How to Grow, Manage, and Identify

Pink Wood Sorrel (Oxalis debilis) is a low-growing perennial herb with delicate pink to purplish flowers and distinctive foliage that creates a soft mat across the ground. This plant holds a dual identity in the gardening world. Some appreciate it as a wildflower for ornamental use, while many others view it as a persistent weed in lawns and garden beds due to its ability to thrive in various conditions.

Identifying Pink Wood Sorrel

Pink Wood Sorrel is often confused with clover, as both plants have trifoliate leaves. However, wood sorrel leaflets are distinctly heart-shaped, unlike clover’s oval or rounded leaflets. These leaves also have the habit of folding up at night or during environmental stress.

The plant’s flowers have five petals, ranging from soft pink to a deeper pinkish-mauve, and sit on slender stalks above the foliage. For identification, the root system is also important. Pink Wood Sorrel grows from a primary taproot and develops numerous small, scaly bulbils around it, which contribute to its persistence.

Growing as an Ornamental Plant

Pink Wood Sorrel is a low-maintenance ornamental that performs well in conditions from full sun to partial shade. While adaptable to various soil types, it prefers a well-draining substrate rich in organic matter to prevent waterlogging. A standard potting mix amended with perlite or peat moss is suitable.

Consistent moisture is beneficial during the growing season, but the plant is sensitive to overwatering, so water only when the top inch of soil feels dry. Due to its tendency to spread, Pink Wood Sorrel is an excellent candidate for container gardening or hanging baskets. In these contained settings, its attractive foliage and flowers can be appreciated without the risk of it overtaking other plants.

Managing Unwanted Spread

Pink Wood Sorrel is difficult to control because it spreads aggressively through small underground bulbils. These are easily separated from the main root system during weeding and can remain dormant in the soil for years. This reproductive strategy means pulling the top growth is ineffective, as any bulbils left behind will generate new plants.

Manual removal requires diligence. Use a hand fork or trowel to dig deep around the plant, ensuring the entire taproot and all attached bulbils are lifted. This process is most successful in spring when the new bulbils are more firmly attached. Avoid excessive soil disturbance, which can spread the bulbils to new areas.

For widespread infestations, consider chemical controls. Selective broadleaf herbicides with triclopyr or dicamba can target sorrel without harming turfgrass. Non-selective herbicides with glyphosate are effective for spot treatments in garden beds, but avoid contact with desirable plants. Always follow the product label’s instructions for application and safety.

Edibility and Safety Concerns

Parts of Pink Wood Sorrel are edible for humans, with a sour, lemony flavor from oxalic acid. The leaves and flowers can be added to salads in small quantities for their tangy taste. Ingesting large amounts of oxalic acid can be harmful, so moderation is important. Individuals with a history of kidney issues, gout, or rheumatoid arthritis should avoid consuming the plant.

Pink Wood Sorrel is toxic to cats and dogs, posing a significant risk. Ingesting any part of the plant can cause drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, and loss of appetite. While most cases are mild, large amounts can lead to severe health issues like kidney damage. Pet owners should prevent access to the plant and seek veterinary care if poisoning is suspected.