Oxalis pes-caprae

Stemless perennial geophyte. Leaves originate from a basal whorl or tuft. Each leave is divided into three heart-shaped leaflets; hairless on top, hairy underneath. Bears clusters of bright yellow flowers on a long peduncle from late autumn to spring.

O. pes-caprae is probably the best known Oxalis species, often conspicuously covering vast stretches of fields and often seen on roadsides and damaged landscapes. The peduncles and flowers are edible, but quite sour.

Distribution in the Hex

Usually clays soils throughout the valley floor and in Robertson Karoo vegetation types.

References

• Manning, J., 2018. Field Guide to Fynbos