How to Grow Oxalis adenophylla
iNaturalist
Oxalis adenophylla
Oxalis adenophylla
flowerOxalis adenophylla, commonly known as Argentine wood sorrel, is a delicate perennial flowering plant with distinctive gray-green, finely segmented foliage and pale pink to lavender flowers with darker veining. Native to the Andes Mountains of Argentina and Chile, it forms low, compact clumps and produces charming blooms in spring. This alpine plant is prized by rock garden enthusiasts for its ornamental foliage and cheerful flowers.
When should you plant Oxalis adenophylla in your zone?
Get a personalized planting timeline — when to start seeds, transplant, and harvest — based on your USDA zone and local frost dates. Free to start.
Example Oxalis adenophylla timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
-
Plant Oxalis adenophylla
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
-
Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
-
First Oxalis adenophylla blooms
Around Jun 16≈ 60 days after planting
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Oxalis adenophylla dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 5-8; prefers cool, well-drained conditions
Sign up free to see if Oxalis adenophylla grows in your zone — and get a personalized planting timeline.
Get my Oxalis adenophylla timeline →Growth Stages
Dormancy/Winter Rest
Fall through early springFoliage dies back after summer heat or frost; plant rests underground as bulbs
Minimize water; protect from excessive moisture; allow cool period to promote flowering
Emergence & Foliage Development
3-4 weeksGray-green, finely divided clover-like leaves emerge in early spring, forming low mounds
Begin regular watering; provide good drainage; watch for slugs attracted to new growth
Budding & Flowering
4-6 weeksDelicate pale pink to lavender flowers with darker veining appear on thin stems above foliage
Maintain consistent moisture; deadhead spent flowers to encourage longer blooming; protect from excessive heat
Post-Bloom & Seed Development
2-3 weeksFlowers fade and small seed pods develop; foliage begins to fade as temperatures warm
Reduce watering gradually; allow foliage to yellow naturally; collect seeds if desired for propagation
Summer Dormancy
Summer monthsFoliage completely dies back; bulbs enter dormancy to escape heat stress
Cease watering; mark location to avoid disturbing bulbs; provide afternoon shade in hot climates
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
-
and
Handpick; use copper tape barriers; apply organic slug baits; encourage natural predators
-
Increase humidity; spray with water; use miticide if severe
-
Remove with rubbing alcohol on a cotton swab; spray with insecticidal soap
Uses
Alpine Rock Gardens
OrnamentalOxalis adenophylla is an excellent choice for rock gardens, alpine troughs, and scree beds where its low growth habit and delicate flowers add charm without overwhelming smaller plantings. Its gray-green foliage provides year-round interest even when not in bloom. [source]
Container Gardening
OrnamentalThe plant thrives in well-drained pots and alpine containers, making it perfect for patio displays, cold frames, or alpine house cultivation where drainage and dormancy conditions can be carefully controlled. [source]
Pollinator Support
WildlifeThe delicate pink flowers attract bees and other pollinators, making it a valuable plant for supporting early spring pollinator populations in cool-climate gardens. [source]
Cut Flowers & Arrangements
HouseholdThe delicate blooms and attractive foliage can be used in small floral arrangements and pressed flower crafts, though the flowers are small and delicate. [source]
Harvest Tips
Oxalis adenophylla is grown for ornamental flowers and foliage rather than harvest. Deadhead faded blooms to encourage continuous flowering throughout the spring season. Allow some flowers to remain if you wish to collect seeds for propagation.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Oxalis adenophylla is endemic to the high Andes Mountains, where it thrives in cool alpine conditions at elevations exceeding 10,000 feet—this explains its preference for cool climates and dormancy during hot summers.
- 🌱 The plant's common name 'wood sorrel' refers to the oxalic acid in the leaves, which gives them a slightly tangy, lemony flavor; however, consuming is not recommended due to high oxalate content.
- 🌱 The finely segmented foliage resembles clover, and the flowers display a unique veining pattern that often appears to glow under soft light, making it a favorite of alpine enthusiasts and miniature garden specialists.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
Join 30,000 gardeners planning their gardens with LizPlants.
Get your personalized Oxalis adenophylla planting timeline
Tell us your zip code and we'll calculate exactly when to start Oxalis adenophylla seeds, transplant seedlings, and harvest — based on your USDA zone and local frost dates. Includes calendar reminders and printable task lists. Free to start.
Get my Oxalis adenophylla timeline →