Other Names:

Shamrock

Range:

Family:

Oxalidaceae – Wood-Sorrel family

Identifying characteristics:

Growth Type:

A perennial low growing herbaceous plant

Height:

Rarely up to 1 ft high

Leaves:

Three part palmate-compound leaf consisting of three heart shaped leaves that fold along the middle.

Stem/Trunk:

The leaves grow on slender branched stems.

Root:

Tough rhizomes

Flower:

Season:

Spring to Autumn.

Appearance:

The five-petaled radially symmetrical flowers, whose color varies from species to species.

Seed/Fruit:

N/A

Miscellaneous characteristics:

There are no poisonous look alikes. In the past I have guided nature walks for day care children, and this was the first plant I showed to them. As you may surmise, they were all quite familiar with "4 leaf clovers" and "shamrocks", but none of them knew you could eat the plant. Every one of the kids that were adventurous enough to sample the wood sorrel, loved it.

Habitat:

Grows in moist partially shades areas of woods, disturbed areas, lawns, lawn edges, and roadsides.

Parts Used:

Leaves, Stems, flowers

Uses:

Wild Food Uses:

The lemony flavor of this plant make it an excellent addition to salads. It is also good as a trail nibble. I find myself grabbing handfuls of it while I am out working in the yard.

 

It should be noted that the lemony flavor of wood sorrel comes from the compound oxalic acid. This acid has been shown to exacerbate kidney troubles, rheumatism, and gout. I have rheumatoid arthritis, and I have eaten large quantities of wood sorrel with no ill effects.

 

The following text is meant for informational purposes only. It is not meant to diagnose or treat any illness or injury. Always consult with a physician or other qualified medical care provider concerning the diagnosis and treatment of any illness or injury.

Medicinal Uses:

None Known

Medicinal Actions:

N/A