Unstoppable Oxalis

There is quite a few types of Oxalis out there. Some are so pretty that they are sold as ornamental plant to grow at home in a pot or directly in a ground in warmer climates. The leaves can have dark purple, colour (O. triangularis) or some delicate pattern. Some have leaves that look like a fan (O. palmifrons google this one!). Flower can go from white to lilac, pink, yellow and almost red.

But today I have a little, unappreciated weed to show.

Oxalis corniculata

I shot these at my mums garden and she could not understand why I was so fascinated. After all it's a weed that grows anywhere it can. Not only among other flowers, but in any crack in the pavement, between rocks and some dirt accumulated in corners. Anywhere where is a bit of soil, water and the seeds drops.

But it is a pretty weed. With bright yellow flowers and dark green leaves that change colour to more red. When it is left alone it grows into largely pillows covering the ground.

It is not tall, just few cm above the ground and the stems tend to creep a bit.

The blooming starts early spring as soon as th weather allows and will last almost all growing season. In that time it will ontinuously producce fresh flowers and fresh seeds. So no wonder it spreads like crazy and it's hard to contain.

In warmer climates, where tere is no winter frosts it can grow and bloom all year round as long as there is enough water.

On top of that it is edible with sour taste. I remember trying some of a different type that grows around woods (wood sorrel) and they have sour taste.





A while ago I was showing you this little guy that decided to move in to one of my succulent pots (this is Pachyphytum oviferum aka Moonstone plant). I guess it is the same type, thousands km away from each other. Sine them they keep popping in various pots. The seeds spread around as I sometimes let them grow. I remove them from the smaller pots only. The flowers, though super small are pretty. So I don't really mind :)





Traditionally a graphic:



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