Creeping wood sorrel, scientifically known as Oxalis corniculata, is a low-growing perennial herb belonging to the family Oxalidaceae. It is native to many regions worldwide and can be found in diverse habitats such as lawns, gardens, and waste areas.
The creeping wood sorrel is characterized by its prostrate growth habit, with slender, branched stems that root at the nodes as they creep along the ground. The leaves are trifoliate, consisting of three heart-shaped leaflets that possess a distinct clover-like appearance. These leaflets exhibit a bright green color and can have purplish or reddish-brown markings. When the leaves fold or close, it reveals the undersides, which are often purple or purplish-red.
The small, yellow flowers of the creeping wood sorrel are clustered at the tip of long, delicate stalks that arise from the leaf axils. These flowers consist of five petals and have a cup-shaped appearance. Following pollination, the plant produces small, elongated, and pointed seed capsules that contain several tiny seeds.
Creeping wood sorrel is well-adapted to propagate both by seed and vegetatively through its creeping stems, which readily root wherever they touch the ground. The plant is known for its ability to spread aggressively, making it often considered a weed in cultivated areas.
In terms of its use and significance, creeping wood sorrel has found applications in traditional medicine across various cultures. It is believed to possess diuretic, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory properties. Some also consume its leaves in salads or cooked as a tangy, sour flavoring ingredient. However, it should be consumed in moderation due to its high concentration of oxalic acid, which can pose health risks in excessive amounts.
