Redwood Sorrel

Oxalis oregana (OXALIDACEAE)

Oxalis for acid, the juice; oregana of Oregon, where discovered by Thomas Nuttall in 1834.
The sour clover-like leaves of this attractive plant make pleasant nibbling and can be added sparingly to salads. Rootsock woody; leaves basal, on 4-7 in. stalks, with 3 heart-shaped leaflets which fold up at night; flower-stalk with 1 large pink to lavender flower.

Deep shade, a characteristic ground-cover in Redwood-Douglas Fir Forests.

February through September.

Source: Spring Wildflowers of the SF Bay Region.


Photo copyright 1994 Brother Eric Vogel


-- Michael Paul Thoma

I'd value your comments. Email me at mike@thoma.com

Last updated 31 Dec, 1995.