How to grow and care for Oxalis Triangularis or False Shamrock?

An easy-to-care-for plant, False Shamrock — Oxalis Triangularis is a gardener’s favourite. This plant is common in homes of its native territory, America. If you find this ornamental plant’s unusual form and intriguing properties appealing, familiarise yourself with tips for growing and caring for this houseplant.

 

See also: Bidens pilosa: Know how to plant and care for this herbaceous

 

Oxalis Triangularis: Facts

 

Botanical name: Oxalis Triangularis Common names: False Shamrock, Love Plant, Purple Shamrock, Purple Wood Sorrel Family: Sorrel Type: Rhizomatous Gerbaceous Native: South America Sun: Full to partial Soil: Well-drained, loamy Watering: Occasional Fertiliser: Slow-release, liquid, compost

 

The enticing leaves

The triphylite heart-shaped leaves of the plant resemble a shamrock and come in a variety of colours – from green to deep purple. The leaves close themselves at night or when disturbed.

 

 

The lovely flowers

Blooming in fall to summer, the bell-shaped, five-petal flowers come in multiple colours, from white to pink. The plant goes dormant in the summer, resulting in foliage degradation. This is the time when watering and feeding must be given a rest.

 

 

Propagating Oxalis Triangularis: Tips and tricks

Best time to plant

The best time to plant your Purple Shamrock is spring. The plant can be grown indoors or outdoors in temperatures ranging between 12-24°C. Any well-draining soil is appropriate to grow the False Shamrock.

 

 

The right amount of light

If the Purple Shamrock is part of your garden in India, provide it with a cover during the peak hot hours. Too much direct sunlight may result in plant dehydration. An hour of direct sunlight is enough for proper growth.

 

 

Read also: Blossom flowers: Quick facts, types, and uses

 

Chemical aversion

The plant is extremely sensitive to the chemical. Use only home-grown products for cleaning and fertilisation.

 

 

The right amount of water

Water your plant only when the soil starts to dry. Excessive watering would cause root rot and impact the colour and quality of the foliage.

 

 

See also: about White flowers: Different types and their benefits

 

Oxalis Triangularis medicinal benefits

 

The edible leaves of the plant is known to have a cooling effect on fevers. When taken in small doses of no more than 2 fluid ounces, it can provide some relief from urinary tract infections. It is also effective against mouth sores or ulcers. Externally, it appears to be of benefit when made into an ointment for cuts, scrapes, rashes, and skin infections.

 

Beauty of Oxalis Triangularis in indoor gardening

 

Oxalis Triangularis, commonly called false shamrock, is a species of edible perennial plant in the family Oxalidaceae.

 

 

A garden container bursting with purple oxalis triangularis on an outdoor patio.

 

 

Garden containers of Dark purple Shamrocks with and salmon colored Impatiens in vintage pottery on a patio.

 

 

Oxalis Triangularis plant has purple leaves and resembles a butterfly.

 

FAQs

How can I grow Purple Shamrocks?

Purple Shamrocks can be propagated by division during the growing season.

What is the best time to plant Purple Shamrocks?

The best time to plant Purple Shamrocks is the spring.

How many species are there in the Oxalidaceae family?

The Oxalidaceae family consists of 570 species. This species was first described by Augustin Prouvençal de Saint-Hilaire in 1825.

Is Purple Shamrock toxic?

Yes, Purple Shamrock is toxic to humans and pets. The plant has low-severity poisonous characteristics.

What kind of temperature is fine for growing Purple Shamrock?

This plant can grow in temperatures between 60-75 degrees Fahrenheit. During the night, a temperature below 50 degrees Fahrenheit, too, is fine.