The deep purple of this Oxalis is striking on any windowsill. The distinctive leaf shape which gives it both its Latin species name, triangularis, and its common name, 'Shamrock', also add to its visual appeal. At the end of each upright stem is a trio of triangular purple leaves, and in spring and summer they may also be accompanied by flower stems topped with pale purple blooms. The leaves fold back and close overnight, to open again with the next sunrise, adding to the plant's personality. And don't be too concerned if it looks a bit smaller over winter - Oxalis can lose their foliage in colder weather but they have tiny storage organs called corms (like little bulbs) which can hide over winter to grow again in spring. Give this semi-succulent a bright spot and not too much water and watch it grow, move and flourish in your home.
Scientific Name
Oxalis triangularis (bitter triangular-leaved plant)
Synonyms: Acetosella triangularis, Acetosella oxyptera, Acetosella papilionacea, Acetosella regnellii, Oxalis regnellii, Oxalis triangularis ssp. papilionacea, Oxalis truncata
First named in 1825, this plant has held its current classification for 200 years. A number of publications have given it different scientific names over the years, but Oxalis triangularis remains the accepted name.
Common Name
False Shamrock, Purple Shamrock, Purple Wood Sorrel, Purple Butterfly, Love Plant
Origin
Native to South America, this plant grows naturally in Brazil, Northern Argentina, Bolivia, Paraguay and Peru
Light
A spot with bright, indirect light is good for the Oxalis, but it will love you even more if it gets a few hours of morning or evening sun. Harsh midday sunbeams can scorch its foliage.
Water
Keep the soil relatively moist in the growing season, watering when the top inch has dried out; decrease the frequency in autumn and winter for its dormancy period and make sure it does not sit soggy!
Humidity
Average household humidity is fine, as long as your Oxalis isn't too close to a heater which will dry it out.
Soil
Choose a well-draining but moisture retentive soil; a mix with added bark or coir, or one designed for Alocasias, will help prevent root rot. Repot every three years as the plant grows.
Food
Feed every four waters in the growing season, reduce to every six in autumn and winter.
Temperature
Temperature should ideally be between 18-24°C- make sure it doesn't drop below 12°C in winter.
Pet-safe
No, this plant is toxic to pets and small humans when consumed in large amounts.
Sprouts Top Tips
The Oxalis grows from tubers in its root system; you can separate these tubers to split the plant into a few different pots and share or spread your plant around. This is best done when the plant is dormant in winter, but can be done at any time as long as you're gentle with its roots.
