Redwood Sorrel

Redwood sorrel, is a low, mat-forming perennial common in the cool, shaded understories of coastal forests from California to British Columbia. Its clover-like leaves fold downward in response to bright light, an adaptation to deep-shade environments. In spring and early summer, it produces delicate white to pink-veined flowers that stand just above the foliage. As a dominant groundcover in many redwood and mixed-conifer forests, it helps retain soil moisture, suppresses erosion, and creates a soft, continuous herb layer characteristic of mature coastal woodland ecosystems. Small amounts of redwood sorrel leaves add a tangy zip to salads, but it contains oxalates which are harmful when eaten frequently or in large quantities.