Warnings
High in oxalates. Wood Sorrel should be consumed in moderation if you are prone to kidney stones. It is worth noting, that many foods we consume have medium to high oxalate content such as spinach, nuts, grains, and chocolate.
Key Identification Features
- Heart shaped leaves
- Red stem at base
Description
A clover looking plant but with incredible flavour and a knack for appearing as garnishings in the top restaurants across the UK.
How to Identify Wood Sorrels
Leaves
Three heart-shaped leaves.
Stem
A long white stem connecting into the soil. The stem of the Wood Sorrel turns red where it extends into the ground. The red part of the stem is packed with most of the flavour.
Flowers
The flowers are delicate and attached via a stalk of their own. Each flower consists of five white, heart-shaped petals etched with fine, lilac or purple veins along with a yellow centre. These flowers are sensitive to their environment, often folding their petals closed at night or during heavy rain to protect their pollen.
Where to find Wood Sorrels
Woodlands – all types. Growing out the earth or from moss covered wood.
Edibility / Taste
Edible, slightly sour.
Smell
No distinct smell.
Rarity
Very common.
