Least Yellow Sorrel
Oxalis exilis
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Pl. E967 — Oxalis exilis
Oxalis exilisOxalis exilisOxalis exilisOxalis exilisOxalis exilisOxalis exilisOxalis exilisOxalis exilisOxalis exilisOxalis exilisOxalis exilisOxalis exilisOxalis exilisOxalis exilis
IOverview
Overview
Least Yellow Sorrel (Oxalis exilis) is a perennial or annual forb/ herb found across various regions in Australia and New Zealand, including New South Wales, Queensland, Victoria, Tasmania, and parts of South Australia, as well as Norfolk Island. Known for its edible flowers and leaves, this plant thrives in diverse habitats ranging from dry to moist conditions, with soil types that include light (sandy), medium, and heavy (clay). It prefers full sun and can grow up to 0.1 meters tall. Its adaptability makes it a versatile addition to gardens or natural landscapes within its native range.
Quick answers
What is Least Yellow Sorrel?
Least Yellow Sorrel (Oxalis exilis) is a perennial or annual forb/ herb found across various regions in Australia and New Zealand, including New South Wales, Queensland, Victoria, Tasmania, and parts of South Australia, as well as Norfolk Island.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Least Yellow Sorrel thrives in full sun and can tolerate both dry and moist conditions. It prefers light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay) soils. The plant is hardy in temperate regions with a range of 4-8 USDA zones. For best results, propagate via seeds or division. As an annual or perennial forb/herb, it grows to about 0.1 meters tall and can be enjoyed for its edible leaves and flowers.
Light
Full sun
Water
Dry, Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
4-8
Life cycle
Annual, Perennial
Habit
Forb/herb
Mature size
0.1 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Least Yellow Sorrel for the first time
8steps
Start with Least Yellow Sorrel as a simple, low-maintenance addition to your garden.
- 1
What you'll need
Seeds or small plants, potting soil, containers or garden space.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring when the weather starts warming up.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Use well-draining soil; for containers, choose a mix suitable for herbs or vegetables.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Direct sow seeds 0.5 cm deep in the soil; space them about 10-15 cm apart.
- 5
First two weeks
Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged until sprouts appear.
- 6
Ongoing care
Water when the top inch of soil feels dry, and provide full sun exposure.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune back any yellowing leaves to encourage new growth; harvest flowers for decorative purposes.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in heavy clay soil, neglecting to prune dead foliage.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:FlowersLeaves
Edible uses: The least yellow sorrel is edible and its leaves and flowers can be consumed. Typically, the leaves are used fresh in salads or as a garnish due to their tangy flavor. The flowers can also be eaten raw, adding a decorative touch to dishes. Both parts offer a mild sour taste similar to other sorrels.
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
9 native · 5 introduced
Distribution
9 native · 5 introducedDistribution across1 continent· 9 native· 5 introduced
Europe3 regions
introduced (3)FrancePortugalUnited Kingdom
Broader regions
native:Victoria, Western Australia, New South Wales, New Zealand North, New Zealand South, Norfolk Is., Queensland, South Australia, Tasmania
introduced:Czechoslovakia, Cook Is.
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXI
Explore further
Companion planting
Growing zone
XII
About this entry
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Back to the cataloguePlant id · e967584a-074a-40c2-a83c-764d4e147e7b
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