Purple Oxalis (Oxalis triangularis)
Regular price $18.95Stunning Edible Shamrock
Common Names: Purple Shamrock, Purple Oxalis, False Shamrock, Love Plant
Family: Oxalidaceae
Origin: South America (Brazil)
Purple Oxalis (Oxalis triangularis), also known as the Purple Shamrock or False Shamrock, is a striking ornamental plant prized for its triangular, deep purple leaves and delicate pink or white flowers. While it's often grown for its unique foliage and ability to brighten up shaded areas, this beautiful plant is also edible and has a tangy, citrus-like flavor due to its oxalic acid content. In addition to its culinary use, Purple Oxalis is easy to grow and makes an attractive addition to both indoor and outdoor gardens. This charming plant adds a burst of color to pots, borders, and shaded garden beds.
Distinctive Features, Uses, and Nutritional Value
Foliage: The deep purple, triangular-shaped leaves of Purple Oxalis fold up at night and open again in the morning, giving it a dynamic presence in the garden. Each leaf resembles a butterfly or shamrock, making it a popular choice for ornamental use.
Flowers: The plant produces clusters of small, delicate pink or white flowers that bloom from spring to fall.
Edibility: Both the leaves and flowers of Purple Oxalis are edible, with a pleasantly tart, lemony flavor. The tangy leaves can be used in salads, as a garnish, or in small quantities to add a zesty note to dishes. It's high in vitamin C and has antioxidant properties, though it should be consumed in moderation due to its oxalic acid content.
Culinary and Ornamental Uses
Purple Oxalis is often used in the kitchen as a garnish or to add a pop of color and a tangy flavor to salads, soups, and other dishes. In ornamental gardening, it is valued for its vibrant foliage and ability to thrive in low-light conditions, making it a perfect plant for indoor pots or shaded garden beds. It can also be grown outdoors as ground cover or a border plant, adding color and texture to the garden.
Our Purple Oxalis plants are shipped in 4" biodegradable coconut coir planters that can be planted directly in the soil, promoting strong root growth and ensuring an eco-friendly start.
Climate and Soil Requirements
- Climate: Purple Oxalis thrives in temperate to tropical climates. It is best suited for USDA hardiness zones 6-11. The plant prefers temperatures between 60-75°F and can be grown both indoors and outdoors.
- Soil: Prefers well-draining, fertile soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH (5.5-7.0). Amend the soil with compost or organic matter to enhance fertility and drainage if necessary.
Planting
- Location: Choose a location that receives bright, indirect light. Purple Oxalis can tolerate some direct sunlight but prefers partial shade, especially in hotter climates.
- Soil Preparation: Prepare the soil by tilling and adding compost or organic matter to improve fertility and drainage.
- Planting Time: Plant bulbs or rhizomes in the spring or fall. Space them 4-6 inches apart and 1-2 inches deep.
- Container Planting: If growing indoors or in containers, use a well-draining potting mix and ensure the container has adequate drainage holes.
Watering
- Consistent Moisture: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry.
- Winter Dormancy: Reduce watering during the winter months when the plant enters a period of dormancy.
Sunlight
- Bright, Indirect Light: Provide bright, indirect light for optimal growth. If grown indoors, place the plant near a bright window with filtered light.
Fertilizing
- Growing Season: Apply a balanced, liquid fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during the growing season to promote healthy growth and vibrant foliage.
- Dormant Season: Avoid fertilizing during the winter dormancy period.
Pruning and Maintenance
- Routine Pruning: Remove any dead or yellowing leaves to maintain the plant's appearance and health. Trim back leggy growth to encourage a fuller, bushier plant.
- Pests and Diseases: Monitor for pests such as aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control infestations. Ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal diseases.
Harvesting Leaves
- When to Harvest: Harvest leaves as needed throughout the growing season. Young, tender leaves offer the best flavor.
- How to Harvest: Use scissors or garden shears to cut the leaves, taking care not to damage the main stem.
