Oxalis
The Flower of
Good Luck
Oxalis are grown for their shamrock-shaped foliage and dainty little tubular flowers. These striking leaves are photophilic, which mean that the leaves open and close in response to light. At night, the leaves fold down and during the day they open. They’re easy to grow indoors or out, making them ideal plant lovers everywhere, especially during St Patrick’s Day.
Oxalis Care Line Classification
Care Information
Light
Place in bright, diffused light. Near a sunny window is ideal. Protect from direct sun.
Temperature
Moderate home temperatures are ideal, 60-70°F daytimes and 50-60°F nights. Avoid excessively cold or hot areas.
Water
Prefers moderately moist soil. Water thoroughly when soil feels dry to the touch. Remove wrap or decor before watering. Drain off all excess water. Do not let plant stand in water.
The Oxalis: Deep Dive
Season
March
Care
Keep your Oxalis in filtered bright to medium light, but away from direct sun to avoid burning. Allow the soil to dry between waterings, ensure the top 2 cm of soil is dry before watering. The worst thing you can do with bulbs is overwater, as it will rot the bulb. Expect to water about once every 2 weeks. Best to take off wrap/container and place in a sink before watering to allow it to drain from the bottom of the pot. Once pot has drained, replace to original spot.
Dormancy: Oxalis occasionally go dormant, and this can happen suddenly in the summer (which is quite strange for plants as it’s the growing season). This usually occurs every 2-7 years, and gives off the appearance that your Oxalis has died. Don’t panic! Simply put your Oxalis in a dark corner and discontinue watering. In about 2-4 weeks, you will see a new leaf emerge. You may then begin watering again and move it back to its sunny spot. They can also go dormant when temperatures exceed 80°F.
Home to Garden
You can grow a shamrock plant outside as long as the species you select is hardy in your climate zone. Alternatively, you can grow the plants in a pot outdoors and move them inside during the winter months. Plant your in-ground oxalis bulbs in the fall, positioning them 3 to 5 inches apart and 1 inch deep. Dig a hole deep enough that you can set the plant with its crown slightly above the soil line. Spread the roots evenly over the base of the hole, and tap gently to remove air pockets as you replace the soil. After watering the transplant well, cover the hole with a 2- to 3-inch layers soil. Oxalis needs 1” of supplemental water per week in the absence of rain.
Flower Meaning
GOOD LUCK! The shamrock is the most recognized symbol of the Irish, especially on St. Patrick’s Day. The original Irish shamrock is said to be none other than white clover, a common lawn weed originally native to Ireland. Occasionally, a fourth leaflet will appear, making a “four-leaf clover,” said to bring good luck to the person who discovers it.”
Fun Facts
Oxalis came to the United States in the 1980s and its popularity continues to grow. When the weather is warm and there is adequate moisture, the Oxalis blooms with small, pale bell like flowers. There are about 300 species of Oxalis, the green leaf variety that makes great indoor plants is the Oxalis Regnellii. Oxalis gets it’s name from the fact that it’s high in Oxalic acid due to its tangy taste. It is used as a spring salad and for cooking.
