Wood-sorrel

A tiny woodlander of great charm, the spring blooms of this little gem are well worth a closer look.

Although the leaves of this understated perennial closely resemble those of a clover, they’re not related at all. But then neither is it a true sorrel! All the members of the wood-sorrel family bear three-lobed leaves and those of this, our only native species, are a delightful apple-green and covered in fine hairs. They form gently spreading mounds in damp, leafy spots and in spring are studded with beautiful chalice-like flowers. These have five, rounded petals of purest white or softest lilac and are finely pencilled with darker pink streaks. A mustard stain to the base of each petal adds a wonderful accent to each flower.