Family: Oxalidaceae
Author: L.
Bibliography: Sp. Pl.: 434 (1753)
Year: 1753
Status: accepted
Rank: species
Genus: Oxalis
Vegetable: False
Observations: C. & E. U.S.A. to N. Mexico
Description
The Violet wood-sorrel, known scientifically as Oxalis violacea, is an enchanting perennial herb native to Central and Eastern United States, extending its charm all the way to Northern Mexico. Belonging to the Oxalidaceae family, this plant is characterized by its delicate, clover-like leaves and lovely violet to pink flowers, which often bloom in clusters.
Historically documented by Carl Linnaeus in 1753, Oxalis violacea has since captured the interest of botanists and plant enthusiasts alike. It thrives in various habitats, ranging from woodlands to prairies, adapting well to a variety of soil types, although it prefers well-drained, slightly acidic conditions.
One of the most striking features of the Violet wood-sorrel is its foliage. The trifoliate leaves are sensitive to light and weather, folding downward during nighttime or when there is an impending storm, an adaptation believed to protect the plant. This distinct leaf movement also adds a dynamic quality to garden landscapes where the plant is featured.
The blossoms of the Violet wood-sorrel are another highlight. Appearing from spring to early summer, the flowers exhibit a gentle violet color, which can sometimes verge on pink. Each bloom consists of five petals, creating a star-like appearance when fully open. These flowers not only add a pop of color to their native habitats but also attract a variety of pollinators, making them an important component in maintaining local ecosystems.
Culturally, Oxalis violacea has been noted for its historical uses in traditional remedies. The leaves and stems, containing oxalic acid, were sometimes used by Native American tribes in poultices or teas, although such practices should be undertaken with caution due to the compound’s potential toxicity in high amounts.
As a garden plant, the Violet wood-sorrel is appreciated for its low maintenance and versatility. It can be grown in shaded garden beds or edges, providing ground cover and visual interest. Its resilience and aesthetic appeal make it a delightful addition to any garden space, offering a touch of wild beauty and subtle elegance.
Considering all these elements, Oxalis violacea stands out not only for its botanical characteristics but also for its adaptability and charm in both natural and cultivated settings. Its beauty and practical versatility make it a treasured species in the diverse tapestry of North American flora.
Common Names
Spa: vinagrillo morado
Eng: violet woodsorrel, purple woodsorrel, violet wood-sorrel
Deu: violetter sauerklee
En: Violet wood-sorrel, Violet woodsorrel, Purple woodsorrel
De: Westindischer Sauerklee, Violetter Sauerklee
Es: Vinagrillo morado
Synonyms
- Acetosella violacea var. rosea (Kuntze)
- Oxalis longiflora (L.)
- Ionoxalis violacea var. trichophora ((Fassett) Moldenke)
- Ionoxalis violacea ((L.) Small)
- Sassia tinctoria (Molina)
- Oxalis violacea f. albida (Fassett)
- Sassia violacea ((L.) Holub)
- Acetosella violacea ((L.) Kuntze)
- Oxalis violacea var. trichophora (Fassett)
Distribution
- Alabama (native)
- Arkansas (native)
- Connecticut (native)
- Delaware (native)
- District of Columbia (native)
- Florida (native)
- Georgia (native)
- Illinois (native)
- Indiana (native)
- Iowa (native)
- Kansas (native)
- Kentucky (native)
- Louisiana (native)
- Maryland (native)
- Masachusettes (native)
- Mexico Northeast (native)
- Mexico Northwest (native)
- Michigan (native)
- Minnesota (native)
- Mississippi (native)
- Missouri (native)
- Nebraska (native)
- New Jersey (native)
- New York (native)
- North Carolina (native)
- North Dakota (native)
- Ohio (native)
- Oklahoma (native)
- Pennsylvania (native)
- Rhode I. (native)
- South Carolina (native)
- South Dakota (native)
- Tennessee (native)
- Texas (native)
- Vermont (native)
- Virginia (native)
- West Virginia (native)
- Wisconsin (native)
- Dominican Republic (introduced)
- Oregon (introduced)
- Puerto Rico (introduced)
- Wyoming (introduced)
Additional Images
Flower
Taken Jun 22, 2020 by Birgitta Tittel (cc-by-sa)
Taken Aug 27, 2022 by Marcos SILVA (cc-by-sa)
Taken Apr 26, 2020 by Grace Allsbury (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jun 1, 2021 by DarcyMariaJoão (cc-by-sa)
Taken Feb 11, 2019 by Jean-Christophe Lombardo (cc-by-sa)
Leaf
Taken Apr 18, 2022 by Contino Enza (cc-by-sa)
Taken Apr 10, 2021 by C (cc-by-sa)
Taken Sep 30, 2021 by av br y fac (cc-by-sa)
Taken Feb 16, 2020 by Morgan Gay (cc-by-sa)
Taken Apr 12, 2020 by João Maria (cc-by-sa)
Habit
Taken May 7, 2015 by EOL − leptodia (cc-by-nc)
Taken Apr 7, 2016 by EOL − Rebecca Stubbs (cc-by-nc)
Taken Apr 12, 2016 by EOL − vannawoods (cc-by-nc)
Taken Apr 11, 2008 by EOL − Ron Thomas (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Apr 15, 2022 by Jacques Zuber (cc-by-sa)
Bark
Taken Apr 3, 2019 by Eli Small (cc-by-sa)
Taken Apr 5, 2021 by Tricia Jeter (cc-by-sa)
Taken Apr 19, 2003 by EOL − Steven J. Baskauf (cc-by-nc-sa)
Other
Taken May 23, 2020 by Aaron Harp (cc-by-sa)
Sources
- WFO (No URL)
- IPNI (No URL)
- GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/2891708)
- POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:178590-2)
- PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Oxalis violacea L.)
Specifications
Growth habit: Forb/herb