Oxalis bifida
Oxalis bifidafam. Fumariaceae
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Pl. 179E — Oxalis bifida
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IOverview
Overview
Oxalis bifida, commonly known as sourgrass or Bermuda oxalis, is a member of the Oxalidaceae family and is native to Bolivia, Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, Venezuela, and parts of South Africa's Cape Provinces. This plant thrives in full sun and can tolerate both dry and moist conditions, making it adaptable to various soil types ranging from light (sandy) to medium. It grows up to 0.3 meters tall and is known for its edible leaves and roots, which are often used in culinary dishes. One distinctive feature of O. bifida is its trifoliate leaf structure, where each leaf consists of three small leaflets, giving it a clover-like appearance.
Quick answers
What is Oxalis bifida?
Oxalis bifida, commonly known as sourgrass or Bermuda oxalis, is a member of the Oxalidaceae family and is native to Bolivia, Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, Venezuela, and parts of South Africa's Cape Provinces.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Oxalis bifida thrives in full sun and prefers a light to medium soil type. It can tolerate dry conditions but also appreciates moist soil. The plant is hardy in zones 8-11, making it suitable for warmer climates. To propagate, simply divide the roots or sow seeds directly. Harvest its edible leaves and roots for culinary use.
Light
Full sun
Water
Dry, Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium
Hardiness
8-11
Mature size
0.3 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Oxalis bifida for the first time
8steps
Start with Oxalis bifida for a low-maintenance, beginner-friendly project.
- 1
What you'll need
Seeds or small plants, potting soil, containers, and water.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring when the weather starts warming up.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Use a well-draining potting mix and ensure your container has drainage holes.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Direct sow seeds 0.5 inches deep, or transplant small plants into the soil.
- 5
First two weeks
Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged during this period to help establish roots.
- 6
Ongoing care
Place in a sunny spot and allow the soil to dry out between waterings. Fertilize sparingly.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune any dead leaves to maintain plant health, but avoid harvesting roots as they are not commonly used.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in heavy soil, and neglecting to prune dead foliage.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:LeavesRoot
Edible uses: The leaves and roots of Oxalis bifida are edible. The leaves can be eaten raw in salads or cooked as a vegetable. Roots are typically dug up and boiled before consumption. Both parts add a tangy flavor to dishes.
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
6 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
6 native · 0 introducedDistribution across1 continent· 6 native
Americas5 regions
native (5)BoliviaColombiaEcuadorPeruVenezuela
Broader regions
native:Cape Provinces
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXSee also
5 related
See also
5 relatedPlants you might compare or use together — scored by shared family (Fumariaceae), common use cases, and growing requirements.
same family · Fumariaceae
Botanical relatives — often share phytochemistry + growing needs.
XI
Explore further
Companion planting
Compare with similar plants
Growing zone
XII
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