Shamrock

Oxalis deppei

Also known as the Good Luck plant.

Origin:

This Mexican native was introduced into cultivation during the heyday of plant collecting in Victorian times and has proven itself garden worthy and non-invasive.

Light:

Full sun to bright light.

Water:

Keep soil slightly moist.

Feeding:

Fertilize monthly with regular houseplant fertilizer.

Potting medium:

Well drained.

Additional Info:

Oxalis is a perennial that grows from a scaly tuber. It is often seen as a houseplant in March. The soft green leaves have a purple variegation in the center of the leaves resembling a cross. The plants grow in clumps and will teach up to 12 inches (30 cm) tall. Unlike most Oxalis species this one prefers a sunny location. They are hardy in the landscape in USDA zones 8-10.

Purple Shamrock

Oxalis regnellii "Atropurpurea'

Oxalis regnellii atropurpurea like cool air and moist soil while they are growing. A suitable compost for shamrocks consists of 2 parts peat moss to 1 part loam to 1 part sand. Bright indirect light is best, but they will grow in lower light levels. Fertilize weekly while they are growing with a balanced fertilizer. No matter what you do, they will seem at times to be unhealthy and lose their leaves. When this happens, they are "tired," so let them "rest." Shamrocks are bulbs, and they require a dormant period every once in a while. Restrict all watering. As with any bulb, let the leaves die back naturally. Do not remove any leaves until they are brown. Let the bulbs stay dormant for 3 to 4 weeks, then water and fertilize. In most indoor-grown shamrocks, this dormant period occurs 2 to 3 times a year.