Photo of Oxalis teneriensis flower, form by Annie's Annuals & Perennials

Photo by Annie's Annuals & Perennials

Used with permission, all rights reserved

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Oxalis teneriensis

Also Known As

  • Oxalis herrerae

Plant type

shrub, perennial

size

  • H: 1'-3'
  • W: 1'-3'

planting zones

  • 9a-12

More Options

Oxalis teneriensis plant details

Oxalis teneriensis is a broadleaf evergreen or semi-evergreen perennial shrub with green foliage. In spring and summer yellow flowers emerge. Grows well with sun - mostly sun and regular - low water. Drought tolerant once established. Adapts to various soil conditions. Does well in average, rich and well-drained soil.

CHARACTERISTICS OF Oxalis teneriensis

Plant type: perennial shrub
Plant family: oxalidaceae
Foliage: evergreen or semi-evergreen green
Mature size: 1 FT - 3 FT - wide, 1 FT - 3 FT - tall
Flowers: yellow blooms in spring and summer
Uses: container plant, houseplant

GROWING CONDITIONS for Oxalis teneriensis

USDA Zones: 9a - 12
Sun exposure: sun - mostly sun
Watering frequency: regular - low
Soil needs: average, rich and well-drained

Nursery contributed plant descriptions

Definitely not your average Oxalis, this fascinating Peruvian succulent member of the genus will stump the casual plant geek and delight everyone with it cheery spring to summer yellow flowers. To 3ft tall and wide in time, stout succulent stems sport inflated leaf petioles each tipped with a tiny oxalis leaf. Awesome houseplant or patio plant for a bright location, even makes an interesting "bonsai" subject with less water and grittier soil. Sun to part shade and at least occasional summer water. Not picky about soil but avoid saturated soil.
When you think of Oxalis, this probably won’t be what first comes to mind, for there are very few plants in this genus that are legitimately shrubs. Native to Peru, Oxalis herrerae grows to 3’ tall & wide with time & care. In rich soil, with supplemental water it is a lush & leafy plant, & in drier circumstances it drops its leaves to show its groovy, succulent stems. Each leaf has a swollen, succulent petiole – an interesting detail! Acid yellow, 1” flowers are provided at the top of the branches off & on throughout the year, most heavily in Spring & Summer. While it’s true that rich soil & regular water will yield healthier looking plants, this species can grow in many soils & exposures, & even looks rather interesting in its tortured state! Cut back hard in Spring for a tidy appearance. Not invasive whatsoever!

Gardening facts about Oxalis teneriensis plant

How to Grow Oxalis teneriensis

  • Sun Exposure

    • sun - mostly sun
  • Water Needs

    • regular - drought tolerant
  • Soil Needs

    • adaptable
    • average
    • well-drained
    • rich

Features

  • Foliage Color

    • green
  • Flower Color

    • yellow
  • Flower Season

    • summer
    • spring
  • Foliage Season

    • evergreen
    • semi-evergreen
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