Oxalis and Shamrocks

Posted by Hannah Brand on Feb 17th 2025

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 step-up your game with a terrestrial mix; 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 show wilt when it's time to water and do 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 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, 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.

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 friend and are not pet friendly.