Oxalis corniculata

Oxalis corniculata, also known as creeping woodsorrel, is a species of flowering plant in the family Oxalidaceae. It is native to Europe, Asia, and Northern Africa, but it has been introduced to many other parts of the world, where it is often considered a weed.

Description

Oxalis corniculata is a low-growing, creeping plant that can reach up to 20 cm in height. The leaves are trifoliate, with three heart-shaped leaflets that can be green or purplish in color. The flowers are small, yellow, and have five petals. The fruit is a narrow, cylindrical capsule that can reach up to 2 cm in length.

Distribution and habitat

Oxalis corniculata is a cosmopolitan species, meaning it can be found all over the world. It is native to Europe, Asia, and Northern Africa, but it has been introduced to North America, South America, Australia, and New Zealand. It can grow in a variety of habitats, including lawns, gardens, roadsides, and disturbed areas.

Uses

Despite being considered a weed in many areas, Oxalis corniculata has several uses. In traditional medicine, it has been used to treat various ailments, such as fever, cough, and diarrhea. It is also used as a food source in some cultures, where the leaves and flowers are eaten raw or cooked.

Control

Control of Oxalis corniculata can be challenging due to its ability to reproduce both sexually and asexually. Methods of control include hand-pulling, mowing, and the use of herbicides.

See also

• List of Oxalis species
• Invasive species

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