Creeping Woodsorrel is a ground hugging herb with bright yellow flowers and leaves that look like shamrocks.
The flowers of Creeping Woodsorrel are bright yellow with 5 petals. Some of the flowers have sharp pointed ends and some have rounded ends.
The flowers close when not in direct sunlight which has given the plant its nickname “Sleeping Beauty”.
The leaves grow in groups of three and look much like a shamrock or clover.
In most of the world creeping wood sorrel is considered a weed however the flowers and fruit attract bees, insects and small butterflies so is of benefit to the environment.
The entire plant is edible and high in vitamin C. Leaves and stems may be eaten raw or cooked and have a tangy, sour taste due to the presence of oxalic acid. Steeping the leaves in hot water for 10 minutes can make a lemony flavoured hot drink.
Large amounts of oxalic acid can inhibit calcium absorption. As Creeping woodsorrel is high in Oxalic acid it is not recommended for anyone suffering from gout, kidney stones or related illnesses.