Wood Sorrel (Oxalis acetosella)

Family: Oxalidaceae | Edibility: Edible (3/5)

Oxalis acetosella is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.1 m (0ft 4in) by 0.3 m (1ft) at a fast rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 3 and is not frost tender. It is in flower from April to May. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Bees, flies, cleistogamy. The plant is self-fertile. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Leaves, Flowers

Harvest Seasons: Spring, Early Summer

Flavor & Culinary Uses

delicious lemony flavour, the leaves make a refreshing, thirst-quenching munch and are also added to salads, soups, sauces etc. — Leaves - raw or cooked.; A delicious lemony flavour, the leaves make a refreshing, thirst-quenching munch and are also added to salads, soups, sauces etc.; This leaf should be used in moderation, see the notes above on toxicity.; A decorative addition to salads.

Habitat & North American Range

Moist woods, moorland and on shady rocks. (Zone 3, Zone 4, Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7)