Purple Shamrock, False Shamrock
oxalis triangularis
Also known as: ["Love Plant","Purple Oxalis"]
Overview
A perennial herbaceous plant with distinctive purple triangular leaves that fold at night or in low light.
Benefits & Perks
["aesthetic foliage","low maintenance"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Oxalidales |
| Family: | Oxalidaceae |
| Genus: | Oxalis |
| Botanical Name: | Oxalis triangularis |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Leaf Plants
- Suitable Location: indoor pot in bright, indirect light or outdoor shaded area
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- 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 include orchid bark for aeration.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically during active growth or when leaves yellow.
- Pruning Intensity: Light; remove only damaged or unsightly foliage.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 4–6 hours daily; tolerates partial shade but may lose vibrancy.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sun to avoid leaf burn; adjust light exposure based on indoor vs. outdoor placement.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; avoid direct afternoon sun.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce to every 3–4 weeks in dormancy
Water thoroughly but allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overwatering, especially during dormancy.
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.
Temperature
Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); can tolerate 50–80°F (10–27°C) but avoids extremes.
Avoid drafts; maintain stable temperatures; protect from sudden changes.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth (spring and summer), none in dormancy
Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Division of rhizomes or bulb offsets; stem cuttings can also be used.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Separate rhizomes or cut stems.
- Plant in medium.
- Water lightly.
- Maintain humidity.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid, and bright indirect light; protect from direct sun.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand; can also use water for stem cuttings.
Hormone
Optional for stem cuttings; not necessary for division.
Timeline
Rhizome division: immediate growth; stem cuttings: roots in 2–4 weeks, mature plant in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Clean knife or scissors, pots, well-draining soil, plastic bag (for humidity).
Quick Tips
Ensure each division has roots and foliage; keep cuttings moist until rooted.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip leaves at the base with clean, sharp tools.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning; focus on removing dead or yellowing leaves to maintain appearance.
Tools
Clean scissors or pruning shears.
Checklist
Check for yellowing leaves; use clean tools; avoid over-pruning.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before active growth begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot; ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; place in new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; necessary to refresh soil and provide space.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot; use fresh soil; water after repotting.
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 soil level, ensuring even moisture without wetting the foliage; allow excess water to drain completely.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water when the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate organic matter for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, or leaf curling; stunted growth in extreme conditions.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may enter dormancy; prolonged cold can damage roots.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate pots; reduce watering during dormancy.
Hot Stress
Leaf scorch, wilting, or leaf drop; may cease growth in excessive heat.
Solution: Provide shade; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid foliage contact.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during active growth (spring/summer); cease in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats are sensitive to oxalic acid and may exhibit mild gastrointestinal distress. The plant is not highly toxic, but ingestion should be avoided to prevent discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicDogs may experience mild gastrointestinal upset due to the oxalic acid content. Prolonged or excessive ingestion could lead to more severe symptoms, though this is rare.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicOxalis triangularis contains oxalic acid, which can cause mild gastrointestinal irritation and discomfort when ingested in significant quantities. The acid binds with calcium, potentially leading to mild metabolic disturbances.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why do the leaves of my Oxalis triangularis fold at night?
A: This is a natural behavior called nyctinasty, where the leaves fold in response to changes in light levels.
Q: Is Oxalis triangularis toxic to pets?
A: It is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested, causing mild gastrointestinal upset.
Q: How often should I water my Purple Shamrock?
A: Water when the top inch of soil is dry, allowing the plant to dry out between waterings to prevent root rot.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Oxalidaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | partial shade to full shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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