Oxalis Plum Crazy (Oxalis vulcanicola): Care, Light, and Winter Survival
CARE INSTRUCTIONS: OXALIS VULCANICOLA 'PLUM CRAZY'
OUR EXPERT ADVICE
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We recommend placing it outdoors , in a partially shaded location sheltered from the wind.
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If you still wish to enjoy it indoors, opt for a very bright location, close to a window; the more light the Oxalis receives, the brighter its color will be.
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Before watering, ensure the substrate is dry throughout . Caution: it does not tolerate overwatering.
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Creeping Oxalis , pinch your plant to encourage dense and full growth .
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Use a well-draining substrate to promote root health, such as our " Universal Substrate ".
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Inspect your plant regularly to detect any pest problems early.
Introduction
Oxalis vulcanicola 'Plum Crazy ', with its striking pink leaves and bright yellow flowers , offers a spectacular color contrast.
Originating from mountainous and volcanic regions , this variety of oxalis is prized for its unique foliage and its ability to add a touch of color to any garden or indoor space.
Features
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Common name: Oxalis 'Plum Crazy'
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Scientific name: Oxalis vulcanicola 'Plum Crazy'
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Family: Oxalidaceae
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Origin: Mountainous and volcanic areas
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Flower color: Yellow
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Flowering period: Spring and summer
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Ideal temperature: 10-25°C
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Humidity: Moderate to high
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Vegetation type: Perennial
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Foliage type: Evergreen
Did you know that?
The vibrancy of the color of Oxalis vulcanicola 'Plum Crazy' is directly influenced by exposure to light.
The more this variety is bathed in light , without being directly exposed to the sun's rays (be vigilant especially in the middle of summer), the more its leaves maintain and intensify their brilliant purple hue.
This unique characteristic underlines the importance of judicious placement to maximize the plant's natural beauty .
HOW TO CARE FOR AN OXALIS VULCANICOLA 'PLUM CRAZY' INDOORS?
INDOORS:
Light :
Indoors, to maximize the iconic color of Oxalis vulcanicola 'Plum Crazy', choose a location near a window . However, be careful of direct sunlight, especially during the height of summer.
The more light your Oxalis plum crazy receives, the more intense its color will be.
Water :
Before watering, make sure the soil is dry throughout .
We all tend to overwater, so be vigilant and make sure to water your Oxalis when its substrate is dry to a depth of several centimeters.
Note that the soil may be dry on the surface but wet under the first layer.
Avoid stagnant water to prevent root rot.
Before watering, stick your finger into the soil and make sure the substrate is dry.
Temperature :
Thrives in temperatures between 10°C and 25°C.
OUTDOORS:
Light :
Outdoors, choose a location in partial shade , sheltered from direct sunlight and wind.
The more light your Oxalis plum crazy receives, the more intense its color will be.
Water :
We advise you to leave your Oxalis plum crazy in a pot; before watering, make sure that the soil is dry throughout .
We all tend to overwater, so be vigilant and make sure to water your Oxalis when its substrate is dry to a depth of several centimeters.
The potting soil may be dry on the surface but moist under the first layer.
Avoid stagnant water to prevent root rot.
Before watering, stick your finger into the soil and make sure the substrate is dry.
Temperature :
Oxalis plum crazy tolerates temperatures between 10°C and 30°C. We recommend bringing your Oxalis indoors or covering it well during winter.
Humidity :
Prefers moderate ambient humidity. Consider misting it in summer when temperatures are very high.
WHAT TYPE OF SOIL IS NEEDED FOR OXALIS VULCANICOLA 'PLUM CRAZY'?
A well-draining potting mix is crucial.
Use a mixture of potting soil enriched with essential elements , and perlite , to retain moisture while allowing good drainage.
We recommend our " Perlite potting mix " which will 100% meet the needs of Oxalis vulcanicola 'plum crazy'!
HOW TO WATER AN OXALIS VULCANICOLA 'PLUM CRAZY'?
Allow the substrate to dry out thoroughly between waterings.
Oxalis 'Plum Crazy' is less tolerant of excess water than other varieties, so special care must be taken to avoid saturation of the substrate.
HOW TO PROPAGATE AN OXALIS VULCANICOLA 'PLUM CRAZY'?
Propagating Oxalis 'Plum crazy' from cuttings is a simple and effective process, allowing you to multiply this attractive plant.
Stem cuttings are particularly well-suited for this species, offering several options to encourage rooting: in water, directly in soil, or in sphagnum moss. Here's how to proceed with each method:
Preparation of Stem Cuttings :
Select healthy stems on your Oxalis 'Plum crazy' and use clean pruning shears to cut segments 10-15 cm long, including several nodes.
Remove the lower leaves to free up some nodes, which will be the anchoring point for the new roots.
Rooting in Water :
Place the cut stems in a container filled with water , ensuring that the exposed nodes are submerged.
Change the water every week to maintain optimal clarity and prevent stagnation.
Once the roots are well developed, transplant the cuttings into a pot with a suitable substrate.
Rooting directly in the ground :
Prepare a pot with light, well-draining potting soil.
Plant the cuttings , making sure to bury the nodes from which the leaves were removed.
Keep the substrate slightly moist and place the pot in a bright location but out of direct sunlight.
The cuttings should develop roots and show new shoots in the following weeks.
Rooting in Sphagnum Moss :
Lightly moisten some sphagnum moss and use it to surround the bare nodes of the cuttings.
(Optional) Place the cuttings in a mini greenhouse or under a transparent bell jar to create a warm and humid environment, thus stimulating the root system.
Regularly monitor the moisture level of the sphagnum moss and ventilate to prevent mold growth.
Once roots have appeared, transplant the cuttings into a permanent substrate.
Regardless of the method chosen, propagating Oxalis 'plum crazy' from cuttings is a rewarding way to spread and increase your collection of these vibrant plants.
With a little patience and care, you will be rewarded by the appearance of new plants ready to brighten your space with their colorful foliage.
HOW TO PREVENT AND TREAT PESTS?
Stay vigilant against aphid and spider mite infestations. In case of an infestation, using black soap can be effective in controlling and eradicating these pests.
Laura Bruneau
Jardinière & autrice
