Oxalis triangularis ssp. papilionacea

Also Known As

Oxalis triangularis ssp. papilionaceae
Purple Oxalis
Purple Shamrock

Plant type

perennial, bulb / corm / tuber

size

H: 6"-12"
W: 6"-12"

planting zones

6b-10a

More Options

Oxalis triangularis ssp. papilionacea plant details

Oxalis triangularis ssp. papilionacea is a broadleaf deciduous perennial bulb / corm / tuber with purple foliage. In spring and summer pink and white flowers emerge. Attracts bees and beneficial insects making it an excellent addition to pollinator gardens. Grows well with sun - shade and regular water. Prefers to be dry when dormant. Does well in average and well-drained soil. A good option if you're seeking something heat tolerant and humidity tolerant.

CHARACTERISTICS OF Oxalis triangularis ssp. papilionacea

Plant type: perennial bulb / corm / tuber
Plant family: oxalidaceae
Foliage: deciduous purple
Mature size: 6 IN - 12 IN - wide, 6 IN - 12 IN - tall
Flowers: pink and white blooms in spring and summer
Uses: container plant, easy-to-grow, long-blooming, woodland garden

GROWING CONDITIONS for Oxalis triangularis ssp. papilionacea

USDA Zones: 6b - 10a
Sun exposure: sun - shade
Watering frequency: regular
Resistant to: deer, heat and humidity
Soil needs: average and well-drained

Nursery contributed plant descriptions

This Brazilian beauty boasts clumps of large, deep purple, nearly black, shamrock-like foliage centered with lighter purple variegation that are topped by clusters of contrasting 1/2" wide light pink trumpet shaped flowers throughout the growing season. Purple Oxalis is a knockout addition to the shade garden and container gardens and can be enjoyed indoors or out. A bulbous and non-aggressive Oxalis that slowly multiplies it will perform best in a well-draining soil and lightly shaded conditions. Easy and enjoyable! 3-5 plants per pot. In a lightly shaded position in mild winter climates with adequate moisture the foliage may remain throughout the year. This easy free-flowering perennial quickly develops into a tight mass of stubby rhizomes that can be divided at any time of year. May go dormant during summer in hot climates or during dry periods but often comes back to flower again in fall or when moisture returns.

By: Almost Eden

A marvellous foliage plant whose opulent, trifoliate, dark purple leaves, with brighter chevron markings, are immediately coveted and then gaped at incredulously after learning it is not only an Oxalis, a genus deleteriously dismissed, but easily grown in any well drained soil, sun or shade. The attractive, pale pink, five petalled, bell-like flowers are merely an added bonus. Slowly clump forming it usually takes a year or so to establish it's fleshy tap root before looking brilliant and then tolerates dry spells or excessive heat by going temporarily dormant, as it does through winter, though it may still continue to flower even without leaves. Sensational in a pot deep enough to accommodate a root system that while relatively deep is not aggressive and plays well with companions.