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Pink-sorrel

Oxalis articulata

Also listed as Oxalis crassipes, Oxalis dumicola

Also known as Pink Shamrock, Pink Oxalis, Rose Shamrock

herbaceousβ›… part shadeπŸ’§πŸ’§ moderate water❄ Hardy: Zone 7a – Zone 11b

Climate Match for your location

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Pink-sorrel is a low-growing, spreading perennial with delicate pink flowers and clover-like foliage that offers ornamental interest in rock gardens and borders. It spreads readily via rhizomes and self-seeds, making it effective as a groundcover in suitable climates.

Why grow it

Pink-sorrel occupies a middle ground between aggressive groundcovers and delicate ornamentals, offering reliable spreading without the invasiveness of some Oxalis species. Its pink flowers and fine foliage provide season-long visual interest in rock gardens, borders, and containers where you want persistent cover without heavy maintenance. Compared to traditional groundcovers, it establishes quickly from rhizomes while remaining easier to control than more vigorous spreading species.

Watch out for

In mild climates with adequate moisture, pink-sorrel can spread more vigorously than intended, requiring occasional thinning to stay within bounds. It performs best in well-drained soil and may decline in consistently wet conditions or heavy clay. In cooler regions, establishment may take longer and winter die-back is more pronounced than in mild climates.

Overview

Form
Mounding
Growth Rate
moderate
Size
0.25–0.5β€² tall Γ— 1–2β€² wide
Dormancy
semi-evergreen
Family
Oxalidaceae
ediblewildlife benefit

Native Range

South America

Seasonality

Bloom Season

J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D

Harvest Season

J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D

Edible Parts

leafroot

Season of Interest

SpringSummer

Similar ground covers you might consider:

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Companion Planting

Plants well with