Growing Shamrocks or Oxalis

Because its leaves are divided into four sections, oxalis is commonly called the shamrock plant.

Oxalis is an easy-to-grow plant with bright green or burgundy leaves that develop into tiny white or pink flowers that stand above the foliage. Another unique feature is that oxalis leaves fold up at night. Oxalis grown from bulbs, and like all bulbs, requires a period of dormancy each year. Don’t throw the plant in the garbage when it appears to be dying because with proper care, it will come back better than ever.

How to Care for Oxalis

Put oxalis in a sunny window, but keep it out of hot afternoon sun. Oxalis will do best at temperature that don’t exceed 75 degrees Fahrenheit, with temperatures around 60 degrees F.

Keep the potting soil just barely moist. Allow the potting soil to dry our slightly between each watering, and don’t water the oxalis plant until the soil feels dry to the touch.

Fertilize the oxalis monthly during the growing season using a water soluble houseplant fertilizer applied according to the directions on the container. Don’t fertilize it during fall and winter.

Give the oxalis plant a rest period when it begins to look droopy and wilted. Its normal for the leaves to die back, so when they do, stop watering. Place the dormancy plant into a cool, dark room for up to three months. When you see new leaves sprouting, move the oxalis back into bright light, and return to regular water and fertilizing.