Also known as Large-leaf Woodsorrel, Drummond's Wood-sorrel
Drummond's woodsorrel emerges rapidly following autumn or spring rains, unfurling broad shamrock-shaped leaves from underground scaly bulbs. Its vibrant rose-pink to lavender trumpet-shaped blossoms open fully in direct sunlight and fold inward under overcast skies or darkness. Adapted to semi-arid scrub and prairie margins, the plant retreats into summer dormancy to withstand extreme heat and drought.
Not EvaluatedConservation statusIUCN Red List categoriesLCNTVUENCREWEXNot Evaluated — not placed on the risk ladderRed List categories, explained →
Key facts
Diet & preyAutotrophic (Photosynthetic)
Predators
White-tailed Deer
Desert Cottontail
Grasshoppers
ThreatsHabitat loss from land conversion and invasive turfgrass competition
HabitatsOpen woodlands, grasslands, chaparral, and shrublands
Life spanPerennial (bulb-forming)
Classification
OrderOxalidales
FamilyOxalidaceae
GenusOxalis
SpeciesOxalis drummondii
Range & activity
Range data is not available yet.
Safe observation
Interaction riskHigh
Low
Moderate
High
Very high
Why interaction risk is high
Contains soluble calcium oxalates; toxic to dogs and cats if ingested in significant amounts.
Why it is dangerous
Contains soluble oxalates that bind calcium in the bloodstream, potentially causing kidney impairment and digestive upset if pets consume large quantities.
How to recognize a risky encounter
Look for trifoliate leaves with broad, deeply notched heart-shaped leaflets and five-petaled violet to pink funnel blooms.
What to do
Harmless to touch and photograph, but prevent dogs, cats, and livestock from foraging on the plants.
Responsible observation
Seasonal Timing: Look for fresh foliage and blooms immediately after substantial autumn and early spring rainstorms.
Pet Safety: Keep curious dogs and cats from grazing on the tender foliage and exposed bulbs.
