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Key characteristics

Family: Oxalidaceae
Height: 6 to 12 inches tall
Width: 6 to 12 inches wide
Flower color: Pink
Foliage color: Green, sometimes with purple markings
Bloom time: Spring to early summer
Light: Part shade
Water: Medium; prefers evenly moist soil
Maintenance: Low; may require division to control spread
Growing zone: USDA zones 8 to 11
Wildlife: The flowers attract bees and butterflies

Groundcovers

Oxalis brasiliensis

Brazilian Woodsorrel

Oxalis brasiliensis, commonly known as Brazilian woodsorrel, is a perennial groundcover valued for its delicate foliage and attractive pink to purple flowers. Native to Brazil, this plant produces clusters of small, funnel-shaped flowers on slender stems in late spring to early summer, creating an airy appearance above its clover-like, bright green leaves.

Suited for shaded or partially shaded areas with moist, well-draining soil, it is often used as a ground cover in woodland gardens, shaded borders, and rock gardens. Low-maintenance and generally resistant to pests and diseases, Brazilian woodsorrel is a reliable and beautiful addition to any garden.

Light

Part shade

Water

Medium; prefers evenly moist soil

Bloom time

Spring to early summer

Find this plant

Works well in

Rock Gardens
Borders
Pollinator Gardens
Woodland Borders

Companion plants

Primroses · Leucothoes · Ajugas · Blechnums · Epimedium · Hellebores

Design tip

Allow this spreading groundcover to weave beneath shrubs and between woodland perennials where it can soften open spaces with natural drifts. Combine evergreen structure, contrasting foliage, and layered textures to create a lush planting with depth, rhythm, and seasonal charm.

Printable plant sheet (PDF)