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Barrelier's woodsorrel

Oxalis barrelieri
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Oxalis barrelieri (Barrelier's woodsorrel) — botanical photograph
Pl. FC6C — Oxalis barrelieri
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Overview

Barrelier's woodsorrel, scientifically known as Oxalis barrelieri, is a perennial forb or herb native to Brazil’s diverse regions including the North, Northeast, Southeast, and West-Central areas, as well as Trinidad-Tobago and parts of Bolivia and Colombia. This plant thrives in full sun to partial shade and can adapt to various soil types ranging from light (sandy) to medium, though it prefers dry to moist conditions. Known for its edible leaves, Barrelier's woodsorrel is a notable addition to gardens or landscapes where it can provide both ornamental value and culinary interest. The leaves can be consumed raw or cooked, adding a tangy flavor to salads or being steamed as a green vegetable. Given its native range across various Brazilian regions and Trinidad-Tobago, it is hardy in temperate regions. For cultivation, ensure the soil remains neither too wet nor too dry. This plant can be propagated through seeds or division of established plants.

Quick answers

What is Barrelier's woodsorrel?

Barrelier's woodsorrel, scientifically known as Oxalis barrelieri, is a perennial forb or herb native to Brazil’s diverse regions including the North, Northeast, Southeast, and West-Central areas, as well as Trinidad-Tobago and parts of Bolivia and Colombia.

Growingconditions · propagation · uses
V

Cultivation

Barrelier's woodsorrel thrives in full sun and prefers either dry or moist conditions. It grows well in light (sandy) to medium soil types and is a perennial forb/herb. For cultivation, ensure the soil remains neither too wet nor too dry. This plant can be propagated through seeds or division of established plants. Given its native range across various Brazilian regions and Trinidad-Tobago, it is hardy in temperate regions. Harvest the edible leaves for use in your garden.
Light
Full sun
Water
Dry, Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium
Life cycle
Perennial
Habit
Forb/herb
For first-time growers

How to grow Barrelier's woodsorrel for the first time

8steps

Start with simple soil and light conditions for a successful Barrelier's woodsorrel.

  1. 1

    What you'll need

    Barrelier's woodsorrel seeds or small plants, potting mix, containers.

  2. 2

    Best time to plant

    Plant in spring when the weather starts warming up.

  3. 3

    Soil and container prep

    Use a well-draining soil mix. Containers should have drainage holes.

  4. 4

    Sowing or transplanting

    Direct sow seeds 0.5 inches deep, or plant small plants in the soil.

  5. 5

    First two weeks

    Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged during germination.

  6. 6

    Ongoing care

    Place in a sunny spot and water when the soil feels dry to the touch. Fertilize sparingly.

  7. 7

    Harvest or pruning

    Prune back any dead leaves to encourage new growth.

  8. 8

    Common mistakes

    Overwatering, planting in heavy soil, not providing enough sunlight.

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Edible & utility

Edible parts:Leaves
Edible uses: The leaves of Barrelier's woodsorrel are edible and can be consumed raw or cooked. They add a tangy flavor to salads or can be steamed as a green vegetable.
Contextrange · companions · related
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Distribution

21 native · 18 introduced
Distribution across4 continents· 21 native· 18 introduced
Asia2 regions
introduced (2)CambodiaSri Lanka
Americas13 regions
native (13)BoliviaColombiaCosta RicaDominican RepublicEcuadorFrench GuianaGuatemalaGuyanaNicaraguaPeruPuerto RicoSurinameVenezuela
Africa5 regions
introduced (5)CameroonCôte d'IvoireTanzaniaTogoUganda
Oceania2 regions
introduced (2)FijiSamoa
Broader regions
native:Brazil North, Brazil Northeast, Brazil South, Brazil Southeast, Brazil West-Central, Panamá, Trinidad-Tobago, Venezuelan Antilles
introduced:Caroline Is., Christmas I., Jawa, Malaya, Marianas, New Guinea, Society Is., Sumatera, Zaïre
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Specimen gallery

1 image
Oxalis barrelieri (Barrelier's woodsorrel) — botanical photograph
Barrelier's woodsorrel (Oxalis barrelieri)
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Explore further

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