Woodsorrel

Woodsorrel is a common name for plants in the genus Oxalis, which belongs to the family Oxalidaceae. These plants are characterized by their trifoliate leaves, meaning each leaf is divided into three leaflets. The leaflets are often heart-shaped and can fold downwards when touched or at night, a phenomenon known as nyctinasty. Woodsorrels are found worldwide, particularly in temperate and tropical regions.

The taste of woodsorrel leaves is typically sour or tart, owing to the presence of oxalic acid. This sourness is a defining characteristic of the genus. While some species are considered weeds in gardens and agricultural settings due to their rapid growth and ability to spread, others are cultivated for ornamental purposes or used in traditional medicine. The flowers of woodsorrel are usually small and can be white, yellow, pink, or purple, depending on the species. They typically have five petals and bloom during the warmer months. Woodsorrel plants reproduce through seeds and rhizomes, allowing them to colonize new areas effectively.