Nelson’s Sorrel: A Mysterious Native Worth Understanding
If you’ve stumbled across the name Oxalis nelsonii while researching native plants, you’re not alone in finding yourself scratching your head. This elusive member of the wood sorrel family is one of those plants that keeps botanists and gardeners guessing, with limited documentation available about its characteristics and growing requirements.
What We Know About Nelson’s Sorrel
Oxalis nelsonii, commonly known as sorrel, belongs to the diverse Oxalis genus – a group known for their distinctive three-leaflet leaves and delicate flowers. Like other members of this family, it’s classified as a dicot, meaning it produces seeds with two seed leaves.
However, here’s where things get interesting (and a bit frustrating for curious gardeners): detailed information about this particular species is remarkably scarce. Unlike its well-documented cousins like wood sorrel or yellow wood sorrel, Nelson’s sorrel remains something of a botanical mystery.
The Challenge of Limited Information
The lack of comprehensive data about Oxalis nelsonii presents a unique challenge for gardeners interested in native plants. We don’t have clear information about:
- Its native range and geographical distribution
- Specific growing conditions and care requirements
- USDA hardiness zones where it thrives
- Wildlife and pollinator benefits
- Invasive or conservation status
Should You Plant Nelson’s Sorrel?
Given the limited information available about Oxalis nelsonii, it’s difficult to provide definitive growing advice or recommend it for your garden. The uncertainty surrounding its characteristics, native status, and ecological impact makes it a risky choice for most gardening situations.
Better Native Alternatives
Instead of taking chances with this poorly documented species, consider these well-established native Oxalis alternatives:
- Oxalis violacea (Violet Wood Sorrel): A charming native with purple flowers and clover-like leaves
- Oxalis stricta (Yellow Wood Sorrel): A common native with bright yellow flowers
- Oxalis montana (Mountain Wood Sorrel): Perfect for woodland gardens with white or pink flowers
The Takeaway for Native Plant Enthusiasts
While the mystery of Oxalis nelsonii is intriguing, successful native gardening relies on choosing plants with well-documented growing requirements and known ecological benefits. Sometimes the most responsible approach is to stick with the tried-and-true native species that we understand well.
If you’re passionate about supporting native plant diversity, focus your efforts on the many wonderful, well-documented native plants that are desperately needed in our landscapes. Your local native plant society or extension office can point you toward region-specific natives that will thrive in your garden while supporting local wildlife.
