The Oxalis triangularis gets its Latin name from the bitter taste of its leaves and their distinctive, triangular shape. As a houseplant, it's definitely the shape which helps it stand out the most! Their lush bright green contrasts with summer white or pink flowers which bloom amongst the clover-like leaves of this plant. Its delicate leaves close overnight and open again in the daylight, and as it grows this plant will form a carpet of foliage as far as you let it, or trail a little over a the edge of a shelf or ledge. It is a semi-succulent which will appreciate a brighter spot, and will not thank you for giving it too much water. It may die back over winter, but don't worry as it's tiny, bulb-like corms will sprout again come spring.
Scientific Name
Oxalis triangularis (bitter triangular-leaved plant)
Common Name
False Shamrock, Sour Grass, Sour Clover, Sleeping Beauty
Origin
Native to Brazil
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.
Water
Keep the soil relatively moist in the growing season, watering when only the top layer 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 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
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.
