Drummond’s Woodsorrel: A Charming Native Ground Cover for Southwestern Gardens
If you’re looking for a delightful native plant that brings both beauty and ecological benefits to your Southwestern garden, let me introduce you to Drummond’s woodsorrel (Oxalis drummondii). This charming little perennial might not be the showiest plant in your garden, but it’s definitely one of the most endearing – and your local wildlife will thank you for it!
What Makes Drummond’s Woodsorrel Special?
Drummond’s woodsorrel is a native perennial forb that belongs to the wood sorrel family. Don’t let the term forb intimidate you – it simply means it’s a soft-stemmed plant (not woody like a shrub) that comes back year after year. This little gem produces adorable yellow flowers and distinctive three-part leaves that look like tiny shamrocks.
What really sets this plant apart is its dual personality as both a garden beauty and a wildlife superstar. According to research, terrestrial birds rely on Drummond’s woodsorrel for 5-10% of their diet, making it a valuable food source in native ecosystems.
Where Does It Call Home?
This is truly a plant of the American Southwest, naturally occurring in Arizona, New Mexico, and Texas. It’s perfectly adapted to the unique conditions of this region, which means it’ll thrive in your garden with minimal fuss if you live in these areas.
Why Your Garden (and Local Wildlife) Will Love It
Here’s where Drummond’s woodsorrel really shines:
- Low maintenance: Once established, this drought-tolerant native requires very little care
- Wildlife magnet: Provides food for birds and nectar for small native pollinators
- Ground cover potential: Its low-growing habit makes it perfect for filling in spaces naturally
- Authentic native appeal: Adds genuine regional character to your landscape
Growing Drummond’s Woodsorrel Successfully
The beauty of native plants is that they’re already adapted to your local conditions, and Drummond’s woodsorrel is no exception. Here’s how to help it thrive:
Ideal Growing Conditions
- Sunlight: Full sun to partial shade – it’s quite adaptable
- Soil: Well-draining soil is essential; it doesn’t like soggy feet
- Water: Drought-tolerant once established, but benefits from occasional watering during extreme dry spells
- Climate: Hardy in USDA zones 7-10, perfect for its native Southwestern range
Planting and Care Tips
Getting started with Drummond’s woodsorrel is refreshingly simple:
- Plant in fall or early spring for best establishment
- Space plants according to how much coverage you want – they’ll naturally spread
- Water regularly during the first growing season to help establish roots
- After establishment, minimal watering needed except during prolonged drought
- Don’t be alarmed if it goes dormant during extreme heat – this is normal behavior
Perfect Garden Companions
Drummond’s woodsorrel plays well with other Southwestern natives. Consider pairing it with desert marigold, penstemon species, or native bunch grasses for a truly authentic regional landscape. It’s particularly well-suited for:
- Native plant gardens
- Xeriscaped landscapes
- Naturalized wildflower areas
- Bird and pollinator gardens
A Small Plant with Big Benefits
While Drummond’s woodsorrel might not be the flashiest plant in your garden, it’s definitely one of the most valuable from an ecological perspective. Its ability to support local bird populations while requiring minimal care makes it a smart choice for any Southwestern gardener interested in sustainable, wildlife-friendly landscaping.
By choosing native plants like Drummond’s woodsorrel, you’re not just creating a beautiful garden – you’re helping to preserve the natural heritage of your region and supporting the intricate web of life that makes the Southwest so special. Now that’s something to feel good about every time you step into your garden!
