Oxalis (Lilac)

Description:

Intoduced species to New Zealand. It is native to southern Africa.This is a perennial herb growing from a system of rhizomes and bulbs. The branching, hairless stem grows to nearly 30 centimeters in maximum length. There may be small bulblets located along the stem above ground. The leaves are borne on long petioles in erect bunches where the stem branches, Each leaf is made up of three leaflets. The solitary flower arises on a slender stalks held clear of the foliage. Each flower has a green tube and five white to light pink petals. It blooms throughout the summer months. Both the leaves and flowers close up in dull weather and at night.

Habitat:

Oxalis incarnata is a species of flowering plant in the woodsorrel family and is often found beside creeks and along tracks and roads or this case my garden.

Notes:

Common name: Lilac oxalis, Pale pink-sorrel, Crimson woodsorrel