Oxalis articulata

Native to southern Brazil, Uruguay and northern Argentina, this deciduous perennial forms rounded clumps. It grows from segmented, scaly underground stems called rhizomes, which allow the plant to spread and regrow after dormancy. The leaves fold downward at night, and its five-petaled flowers also close after dark. Flower color ranges from pink to magenta or white, with clusters carried on long stalks. Hot, dry conditions can induce dormancy. The leaves and flowers have a sharp, lemony flavour, but their oxalates can be harmful if large quantities are eaten. The species has become naturalized in parts of Europe, North America and eastern Asia, and is cultivated in Colombia. Photographed in Bogotá, Colombia.