Purple Oxalis
oxalis purpurea
Also known as: ["Purple Shamrock","False Shamrock"]
Overview
A perennial herbaceous plant with clover-like leaves and vibrant purple flowers, native to South Africa.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Oxalidales |
| Family: | Oxalidaceae |
| Genus: | Oxalis |
| Botanical Name: | Oxalis purpurea |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: indoor pot or sheltered garden bed
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–25°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"8–10"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining potting mix with added perlite or sand; can also use cactus mix with some organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically during spring or early summer.
- Pruning Intensity: Light pruning; remove only dead or damaged leaves.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; can tolerate some direct morning sun but avoid harsh afternoon sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct light; protect from intense sun to prevent leaf burn; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter strong light; avoid direct afternoon sun.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overwatering; water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom.
Soil
well-draining, slightly acidic potting mix
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; adjust pH if necessary.
Temperature
Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); can tolerate cooler temperatures but avoid frost; prefers moderate humidity.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from drafts; maintain moderate temperatures year-round.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season
Dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; fertilize during active growth; stop in dormancy.
Propagation
Methods
Division of tubers or stem cuttings.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Separate tubers or take stem cuttings.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
- Wait for roots to develop.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand; can also propagate in water for stem cuttings.
Hormone
Optional but can help with root development for stem cuttings.
Timeline
Tubers may sprout in 2–4 weeks; stem cuttings root in 3–6 weeks and establish in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Clean knife or scissors, pots, well-draining soil, rooting hormone (optional).
Quick Tips
Ensure tubers are firm and healthy; use clean tools to prevent disease; maintain humidity for cuttings.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip off yellowing or dead leaves at the base with clean scissors.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning needed; focus on removing dead or yellowing foliage to maintain appearance and health.
Tools
Clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears.
Checklist
Check for dead leaves; use clean tools; remove only necessary foliage; avoid over-pruning.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before active growth begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot one size larger than the current one, with drainage holes.
Method
Gently remove the plant; trim any crowded roots; place in a new pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound; beneficial for tuber growth.
Checklist
Check root boundness; prepare new pot; handle roots gently; use fresh soil; ensure drainage.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water thoroughly; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, ensuring even moisture without saturating the soil. Water early in the day to allow foliage to dry. Ensure proper drainage to prevent waterlogging.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water when the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate organic matter like compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, or stunted growth in extreme heat or cold; leaf drop in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and can cause leaf drop or dormancy; frost can damage or kill the plant.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; protect from drafts; reduce watering in cooler conditions.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause wilting, leaf scorch, or premature dormancy; may lead to dehydration.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid contact with leaves.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during active growth (spring and summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats are sensitive to oxalic acid, and ingestion of Oxalis purpurea can result in mild to moderate gastrointestinal distress. The plant's toxicity is generally low, but cats should not be allowed to consume it due to their smaller size and potential sensitivity.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Oxalis purpurea can cause mild gastrointestinal upset due to the presence of oxalic acid. While generally not life-threatening, large quantities may lead to more severe symptoms, particularly in small breeds or those with pre-existing health issues.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicOxalis purpurea contains oxalic acid, which can interfere with calcium absorption and lead to metabolic disturbances when ingested in significant quantities. The effects are generally mild but can be more pronounced in individuals with pre-existing kidney conditions.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Oxalis purpurea toxic to pets?
A: Yes, it is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.
Q: How often should I water Oxalis purpurea?
A: Water when the top inch of soil feels dry, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
Q: Does Oxalis purpurea require full sun?
A: It prefers partial shade to full sun, but in hot climates, it benefits from afternoon shade.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Oxalidaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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