Oxalis and Shamrocks
Posted by Hannah Brand on Mar 15th 2026
Weekly Plant Chat: Oxalis and Shamrocks
Hey Plant Friends!
This week we are talking about Oxalis, more commonly known as purple or green shamrock. Oxalis have distinct triangle shaped, purple or green foliage that dances in the sunlight. Extra bonus, they flower! Purple-leaved oxalis have lavender flowers, while green-leaved shamrocks have white flowers. Oxalis and shamrocks are commonly sold around St. Patrick’s Day as a seasonal plant - but with the correct care they make a great houseplant.
Family of Origin
Oxalis is a large genus of flowering plants in the Oxalidaceae, or wood-sorrel family and is native to South America.
Plant Care
Light
Oxalis prefer bright, indirect light and love to sit in a bright, sunny window. Morning sun is best.
Soil
Plant in all-purpose potting soil like Coco Loco, or assemble your own terrestrial mix with 2-3 parts all-purpose potting soil, 1 part vermiculite, 1/2 part worm castings.
Water
Allow the top 1-2 inches of soil to dry before watering. Oxalis will droop when it's time to water, and will recover nicely from drought.
Fertilizer
Fertilize weekly during periods of active growth with an all-purpose fertilizer such as Schultz All-Purpose Liquid Fertilizer. Fertilization is not needed when plants go dormant.
Hot Tips
Oxalis go dormant in the summer, usually only for a month or so. When this happens, the foliage will die back almost completely. Fear not, this is normal! Reduce watering, trim back dry foliage (this helps promote a thicker, fluffier plant), and place in a cool, dark location. After about a month of rest, return to a sunny window, water well, and watch the magic unfold. During dormancy, you can propogate them by division - simply separate the bulbs and plant in individual pots.
Oxalis love bright light in your home. But be careful, those papery leaves can’t take the intensity of the sun's rays on their foliage for long periods of time. Too little light leads to leggy plants. If you notice this happening, move to a sunnier spot. Rotate when you water for even growth as they love to grow towards the light.
Keep an eye out for insect pests including aphids and spider mites. Check for pests weekly when watering. Keep a bottle of Bonide’s Eight Insect Control on hand for easy treatment.
Oxalis are toxic to our furry friends and are not pet-friendly.
Shop Now!
Oxalis are available in 2", 4”, and 6" pots in the greenhouse.
If you have any questions about Oxalis care, feel free to stop in and ask! Otherwise, email us at hello@tonkadale.com - we're here to help!