Oxalis corniculata, commonly known as creeping woodsorrel, is a perennial herbaceous plant belonging to the family Oxalidaceae. It is native to many parts of the world, including Asia, Europe, and North America. The plant has a prostrate growth habit, with slender stems that can creep along the ground, earning it the common name of creeping woodsorrel.
The leaves of Oxalis corniculata are trifoliate, meaning that each leaf is divided into three leaflets, which are heart-shaped or shamrock-like. The leaflets have a characteristic clover-like appearance that gives the plant its popular name of lucky clover. The leaves are green in color and have a sour taste due to the presence of oxalic acid, which is also responsible for the plant's acidity.
The flowers of Oxalis corniculata are small, solitary, and have five petals. They can range in color from yellow to pink or purple, adding beauty to gardens and lawns where they often grow as weeds. The plant produces attractive seeds, which are enclosed in small capsules that resemble tiny horns, hence its specific epithet "corniculata," meaning "horned."
Oxalis corniculata is known for its ability to quickly spread and establish itself in various environments, including disturbed land, lawns, and gardens. Although it is considered a common weed, it has gained popularity in some cultures for its culinary and medicinal uses. The leaves are occasionally used in salads or cooked as a potherb, and the plant has been employed in traditional medicine for ailments such as stomach disorders and respiratory issues.
Overall, Oxalis corniculata is a versatile plant with distinctive characteristics, recognized for its clover-like leaves, colorful flowers,
