Oxalis corniculata is similar to but smaller than the commoner Oxalis pes-caprae; it is a cosmopolitan weed found on almost every continent; its origin is uncertain but it probably arose from the Eastern Mediterranean and it is considered to be native to Greece. There are two forms present on Skopelos, one with green leaves and a variant with purple leaves, Oxalis corniculata variant atropurpura, which is generally found in the narrow lanes of Skopelos town, outlining the paving stones.

The plants have clover-like leaves but each with four leaflets. The leaves contain oxalic acid, giving them a bitter taste; they can be added to salads but if eaten in larger quantities can be toxic.