The Encyclopedia of House Plants

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Oxalis

Family: Oxalidaceae.

Oxalis adenophylla Common name(s): Shamrock, Sorrel
Oxalis Genus of about 500 species of fibrous-rooted, bulbous, rhizomatous, or tuberous annuals and perennials, from various habitats worldwide. Some types of oxalis have shamrock-like leaves. Most require full sun and an evenly moist soil when actively growing. Dormant plants are kept drier. Use dilute liquid fertilizer, at weekly intervals on actively growing plants. Bulbous types are planted in autumn. Plant the bulb 1/2 inch deep and place the pot in a dark area until growth appears. When growing, move it to its regular growing area. Oxalis deppei has red flowers in spring, Oxalis cernua (Bermuda Buttercup) bears yellow blooms and Oxalis Bowiei is pale purple. The leaves close at night.
Growing conditions Watering and misting Propagation
Warm - minimum 50F in winter. As much light as possible. Shade from hot sun. Grow in soil-based potting mix. Keep compost moist at all times - reduce watering in winter. Mist leaves frequently. Propagation is by offsets removed at planting time or by root division. Sow seed at 55-64 F (13-18 C) in tate winter or early spring.
Oxalis crassipes ‘Rosea’
Strawberry Oxalis is very compact and attractive plant for shaded windowsill. Prolific grower and bloomer with rose-pink flowers and clover-like leaves. Does well in shade or partial sun.

Could be grown in garden, too, zones 5-9. Does not reseed or run, but forms tubers that withstand cold and drought. Bright pink flowers cheer up the garden continuously from spring through hard frost.

 Oxalis crassipes ‘Rosea’
Oxalis deppei Lodd.
Oxalis deppei Lodd.
Oxalis triangularis
Oxalis triangularis

Users' comments:

Christina
Canada
31st May 2009 		I've been looking everywhere for the name of this triangular leafed plant and here it is. I would like to add that (if this is the same plant as the one I own) under the leaf is a beautiful purple color.
Bobbi
USA
24th Jun 2009 		I have tons of these all over my yard and in containers. They are very hardy and the only time they wilt is during the very hot summer months. I keep them well watered and out of the direct sunlight.
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