Violet Wood Sorrel

Oxalis violacea

Physical Characteristics

Oxalis violacea is a BULB growing to 0.3 m (1ft). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 5. It is in flower from May to August, and the seeds ripen from July to September. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers dry or moist soil.

Distribution

Eastern N. America - New York to Wisconsin, south to Florida.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Dappled Shade; Shady Edge;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Flowers Leaves Root Edible Uses: Drink Leaves - raw or cooked[2, 105, 159, 161]. The acid salty leaves are eaten raw in salads and sandwiches or cooked as a potherb[183].Use in moderation, see notes at top of sheet. Flowers - raw[105, 161]. An attractive and tasty garnish for salads[183]. Root - raw or cooked[105, 161, 183, 257]. A lemon-flavoured drink is made from the leaves[159].

Medicinal Uses

Anthelmintic Antiemetic Blood purifier Cancer Salve The plant is anthelmintic, antiemetic, blood purifier, cancer and salve[257]. A cold infusion is used to stop a person vomiting[257]. An infusion can be used as a blood purifier, it is said to be a treatment in the early stages of cancer[257]. An infusion of the plant is drunk and also used as a wash in treating children with hookworm[257]. An infusion of the leaves, mixed with oil, can be used as a salve on sores[257].

Known Hazards

The leaves contain oxalic acid, which gives them their sharp flavour. Perfectly all right in small quantities, the leaves should not be eaten in large amounts since oxalic acid can bind up the body's supply of calcium leading to nutritional deficiency. The quantity of oxalic acid will be reduced if the leaves are cooked. People with a tendency to rheumatism, arthritis, gout, kidney stones or hyperacidity should take especial caution if including this plant in their diet since it can aggravate their condition[238].