There are several species of yellow wood sorrel. All are similar in appearance. Leaves are a bright, light green and are divided in three heart-shaped parts. Although they are lighter green in color, leaves are otherwise quite similar to those of clover. Leaves are often folded downward, giving them the appearance of a closed umbrella.
Flowers are a bright golden yellow, with four petals.
Size and growth habit of the plant vary considerably. Plants generally grow upright, but have weak stems and may creep along the ground. Entire plants are generally no more than eight inches tall. Yellow wood sorrel is most often found growing right in and among strawberry plants. Yellow wood sorrel is an extremely common weed in Massachusetts strawberry plantings.