helloplants.org

Oxalis purpurascens

Family: Oxalidaceae


What it is like

A herb with a bulb. It keeps growing from year to year. It grows 20 cm high.


Where it is found

It is a subtropical plant. It grows in hot arid places with a marked dry season. The dry season can be 6-11 months. It grows between 935-2,479 m above sea level. It can grow in arid places.

Countries/locations it is found in

Africa, Botswana, Namibia, South Africa, Southern Africa


How it is used for food

The leaves are eaten raw and also in vegetable dishes. The root bulbs are eaten raw and in vegetable dishes. CAUTION: The leaves contain oxalates and can affect calcium absorption. They probably damage kidneys. They should not be eaten in large amounts.

Edible parts

Leaves, roots, bulb


How it is grown


Its other names

Local names

Orunarunue, Suring

Synonyms