Barrelier’s Woodsorrel: A Lesser-Known Member of the Oxalis Family
If you’ve stumbled across the name Barrelier’s woodsorrel (Oxalis barrelieri), you might be wondering what this little-known plant is all about. While it’s not as common in garden centers as some of its Oxalis cousins, this annual forb has an interesting story and a limited but specific geographic presence.
What is Barrelier’s Woodsorrel?
Barrelier’s woodsorrel is an annual herbaceous plant that belongs to the wood sorrel family. As a forb, it’s a non-woody plant that completes its entire life cycle within a single growing season. Unlike perennial plants that return year after year, this species grows from seed, flowers, produces seeds, and dies all within one year.
Where Does It Come From?
Here’s where things get interesting from a geographic standpoint. Oxalis barrelieri is native to Puerto Rico, but it has also established itself in other Pacific territories including Guam and Palau. This makes it a non-native species that has managed to reproduce and persist in areas outside its original home range.
Should You Grow Barrelier’s Woodsorrel?
This is where we need to be honest: there’s limited information available about this particular species’ garden performance, growing requirements, or potential benefits to pollinators and wildlife. Unlike some of its more popular Oxalis relatives, Barrelier’s woodsorrel isn’t commonly cultivated or well-documented in horticultural literature.
Since its invasive potential is unknown and it’s already established in areas outside its native range, gardeners might want to consider native alternatives instead. Here are some reasons why:
- Limited availability and growing information
- Unknown impact on local ecosystems
- Plenty of well-documented native options available
Better Native Alternatives
Instead of Barrelier’s woodsorrel, consider these native options that provide similar low-growing, herbaceous garden interest:
- Native wood sorrel species (Oxalis species native to your region)
- Wild ginger for shady areas
- Native wildflowers appropriate for your local climate
- Regional ground covers that support local wildlife
The Bottom Line
While Barrelier’s woodsorrel might sound intriguing, the lack of available growing information and its non-native status in most areas make it a less-than-ideal garden choice. Your garden—and local ecosystem—will likely benefit more from well-researched native plants that provide proven benefits to pollinators, wildlife, and soil health.
If you’re drawn to the Oxalis family, research native wood sorrel species in your area instead. They’ll give you that charming, delicate look you’re after while supporting your local environment in the process.
