How to care for an Oxalis Triangularis?
CARE INSTRUCTIONS: OXALIS TRIANGULARIS
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OUR EXPERT ADVICE
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Indoors, choose a very bright location, near a window, but out of direct sunlight; the more light the Oxalis receives, the more vibrant its color will be. If placed outdoors, opt for partial shade and a sheltered spot away from the wind.
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Before watering, make sure the substrate is dry throughout ; it does not tolerate excess water.
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Use a well-draining substrate to promote root health, such as our " Universal Mix Soil/Perlite Substrate" .
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Inspect your plant regularly to detect any pest problems early.
Introduction
Oxalis triangularis, often called purple clover or purple-leaved clover, is a spectacular perennial plant known for its distinctive triangular leaves of dark purple color.
Native to South America, this plant attracts attention not only for its beauty but also for its ability to close its leaves in response to light.
It is ideal for adding a touch of colour and originality to any interior.
Features
- Common name: Purple clover, Violet-leaved clover
- Scientific name: Oxalis triangularis
- Family: Oxalidaceae
- Origin: Brazil and other regions of South America
- Nickname: Purple Wood-sorrel
- Flower color: Pale pink to white
- Flowering period: Late spring to early summer
- Ideal temperature: 15-25°C
- Humidity: Moderate to high
- Vegetation type: Perennial
- Foliage type: Evergreen
Did you know that?
Oxalis triangularis is often used in studies of circadian rhythms in plants because of its predictable leaf movement in response to daylight.
HOW TO CARE FOR AN OXALIS TRIANGULARIS INDOORS?
INDOORS:
Light :
Indoors, to maximize the iconic color of Oxalis triangularis, choose a location near a window . However, be careful of direct sunlight, especially during the height of summer.
The more light your Oxalis triangularis 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.
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 :
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 triangularis receives, the more intense its color will be.
Water :
We advise you to leave your Oxalis triangularis 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 TRIANGULARIS?
A light, rich, and well-draining potting mix is recommended. A blend of potting soil for houseplants enriched with essential elements and perlite ensures good drainage while retaining the necessary moisture.
We recommend using our " Perlite potting mix " for future repotting, which will meet 100% of the needs of Oxalis triangularis!
ABOUT FLOWERS
The flowers of Oxalis triangularis, which are pale pink to white in color, appear on long, thin stems.
To encourage abundant flowering, ensure the plant receives sufficient light and water during its growing season.
WHEN SHOULD I REPOT MY OXALIS?
Repot Oxalis triangularis in early spring every two years, or when you notice that the bulbs are starting to become too cramped in their pot.
Use a slightly larger pot with good drainage to encourage new growth.
HOW TO WATER AN OXALIS TRIANGULARIS?
Watering should be moderate, allowing the soil to dry slightly between sessions.
Avoid leaving the pot in stagnant water to prevent root rot.
HOW TO PROPAGATE AN OXALIS TRIANGULARIS?
Propagate by division of the bulbs in late winter or early spring.
Gently separate the bulbs and plant them in fresh new soil to start new plants.
THE WINTER REST OF THE OXALIS TRIANGULARIS
Oxalis triangularis, known for its distinctive purple leaves and delicate flowers, enters a resting phase during the winter months, a natural cycle that allows it to survive less favorable conditions.
This dormancy period is crucial for its life cycle and future flowering.
Outdoors, Oxalis triangularis is prone to losing its leaves when temperatures begin to drop, signaling the start of its winter rest.
This reaction is a natural adaptation to the winter conditions of its native habitat in South America, where it conserves resources by reducing its leaf mass.
Indoors, although protected from direct cold, Oxalis can also exhibit a period of rest, often signaled by a reduction in growth or the loss of some leaves.
This can be due to a combination of factors such as reduced available light, changes in watering routines, or simply the plant's response to its internal biological cycle.
Tips for managing winter rest:
When your Oxalis triangularis enters a period of dormancy, often marked by the loss of its leaves in winter, it is essential to follow a few steps to ensure its proper rest and vigorous recovery in spring.
Location during rest
Place your Oxalis in a cool spot in your home, where the temperature is between 10°C and 15°C. A location away from direct sunlight is ideal, as the plant doesn't need it during its dormancy. A closet or a rarely used room can work, but make sure the space doesn't become too dry.
Watering during dormancy
Reduce watering to a minimum. A light watering every month will be enough to prevent the bulbs from drying out completely.
Avoid excess water to prevent rot.
Preparing for spring
With the lengthening days at the beginning of spring, gradually begin to expose the plant to more light and slightly increase watering.
This will signal to Oxalis that it is time to come out of its dormancy.
As soon as new shoots appear, resume regular watering and place the plant back in its usual growing location.
These appropriate care during the winter rest period are crucial for the life cycle of your Oxalis triangularis, allowing the plant to regenerate and flower abundantly in the following season.
Understanding and respecting the natural cycle of Oxalis triangularis is essential for its health and flowering.
This rest period is not a sign of poor health, but a natural stage that contributes to the vigor and beauty of the plant in the seasons to come.
OXALIS, AN EDIBLE PLANT
Oxalis triangularis, known for its distinctive purple leaves and delicate flowers, is not only an attractive ornamental plant but also edible.
Its leaves, with a slightly tangy taste reminiscent of chives or sorrel, can be a surprising and refreshing addition to various dishes.
The leaves of Oxalis triangularis can be used to enhance salads, soups, and even desserts, offering a pleasant touch of acidity that enhances the flavors.
In addition, its edible flowers add an aesthetic and gustatory dimension to dishes, perfect for decorating and delicately flavoring desserts.
Although edible, it is important to consume Oxalis triangularis in moderation.
Like other members of the Oxalidaceae family, the leaves contain oxalic acid, which in large quantities can be irritating to the digestive system and interfere with calcium absorption.
People suffering from kidney problems or kidney stones should avoid consuming it.
HOW TO PREVENT AND TREAT PESTS?
Inspect regularly to prevent any signs of mealybugs, thrips or spider mites.
In case of infestation, treat with natural and biological methods such as black soap.
OUR EXPERT ADVICE:
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Indoors, choose a very bright location, near a window, but out of direct sunlight; the more light the Oxalis receives, the more vibrant its color will be. If placed outdoors, opt for partial shade and a sheltered spot away from the wind.
-
Before watering, make sure the substrate is dry throughout ; it does not tolerate excess water.
-
Repot every two years to stimulate growth.
-
Use a well-draining substrate to promote root health, such as our "Universal Substrate Mix Potting Soil/Perlite".
