Large-flower Pink-sorrel
Oxalis debilis
Last reviewed: August 2026
Large-flower Pink-sorrel is toxic to dogs and cats.
Listed as toxic by the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (opens in new tab) (last reviewed 2026-05-21). If your pet has been exposed, call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435and your veterinarian's emergency line.
Pollinator Patch flags toxic plants so you can choose a pet-safe native alternative for your yard.
Light
part shade
Water
medium
Size
6"–12" H × 6"–12" W
Bloom
Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep
Pollinators
bees, butterflies
Native alternatives to Large-flower Pink-sorrel
Large-flower Pink-sorrel is not native to the United States. These natives fill a similar role in a planting, matched on bloom season, bloom color and mature size.
Before you buy
Your city may pay you to plant this
Cities and water utilities offer rebates for replacing lawn with native and water-wise plants. We track 452 programs across 44 states, each with a link to the provider and the date we last checked it.
Find rebates in your areaLarge-flower pink-sorrel is a low-growing perennial with clover-like leaves and bright pink flowers that bloom from spring through fall. This compact plant forms neat mounds and thrives in partially shaded areas with moderate water needs. The cheerful flowers provide reliable color for extended periods in the garden.
In an HOA neighborhood
Large-flower Pink-sorrel takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: low. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Commonly considered a weed by many homeowners
- May spread aggressively and appear unkempt
- Often mistaken for invasive oxalis species
Wildlife value
This plant attracts bees and butterflies with its long blooming season from April through September. The extended flower production makes it a valuable nectar source during much of the growing season.
Common questions
- How much sun does Large-flower Pink-sorrel need?
- Large-flower Pink-sorrel grows best in part shade conditions.
- When does Large-flower Pink-sorrel bloom?
- Large-flower Pink-sorrel blooms in April, May, June, July, August, and September.
- Is Large-flower Pink-sorrel toxic to dogs?
- Yes. Large-flower Pink-sorrel is listed as toxic to dogs by the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (aspca.org). If your pet has been exposed, call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435.
- Is Large-flower Pink-sorrel toxic to cats?
- Yes. Large-flower Pink-sorrel is listed as toxic to cats by the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (aspca.org). If your cat has been exposed, call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435.
- What pollinators does Large-flower Pink-sorrel attract?
- Large-flower Pink-sorrel draws bees and butterflies.
- Is Large-flower Pink-sorrel HOA-friendly?
- Large-flower Pink-sorrel takes more care to look intentional in a front yard. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
If something looks wrong
Common plant problems, and what to check first
These come up on almost any plant. Each guide lists the likely causes in the order they are worth ruling out, with one thing to check before you act on any of them, and links to the source it came from.
- It is dying right after planting
- Leaves turning yellow
- Wilting even though I watered it
- Brown crispy leaf tips
- Bugs on the plant
Pollinator Patch flags toxic plants like Large-flower Pink-sorrel and shows pet-safe natives for your ecoregion instead.
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