Creeping Oxalis

Creeping oxalis (Oxalis exilis) is a member of the Oxalidaceae family and is a native New Zealand species. Its leaves are comprised of three leaflets that have notches at the tip which is why many people confuse it with clover.  It is a perennial plant that grows from creeping stems and stolons which means that it has a tendency to creep over and smother the other more desirable turf species.

It is additionally distinguishable by small yellow flowers that are produced for much of the year. It appears to tolerate a wide range of growing conditions from damp poorly drained soils to quite arid environments.  Its small size and prostrate growth habit make close cut lawns an ideal habitat for its proliferation.  It can be selectively controlled using the active ingredients Picloram & Triclopyr which is sold as the herbicide Triumph Gold.