Contents
Description
Oxalis Rubens, commonly known as the Pink Shamrock, is a beautiful flowering plant that belongs to the Oxalidaceae family. This plant is native to South America, specifically Brazil, and has become a popular houseplant due to its attractive pink flowers and clover-like leaves.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Oxalidales |
| Family | Oxalidaceae |
| Genus | Oxalis |
Appearance
Oxalis Rubens has distinctive clover-like leaves that are typically green in color, with reddish-purple undersides. The leaves are divided into three heart-shaped leaflets, and are approximately 1-2 inches in length. The plant produces delicate pink flowers that are about 1 inch in diameter, with five petals and a yellow center.
Care Guide
To care for Oxalis Rubens, it is important to provide it with the proper amount of water, fertilizer, soil, sunlight, and to ensure that it is in the right hardiness zone for its needs.Water: Oxalis Rubens prefers moist soil, but it is important not to overwater the plant as this can lead to root rot. Water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.Fertilization: Feed the plant with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.Soil: Use a well-draining potting mix that is rich in organic matter.Sunlight: Oxalis Rubens prefers bright, indirect sunlight. Avoid placing the plant in direct sunlight as this can cause the leaves to scorch.Hardiness Zones: Oxalis Rubens is hardy in USDA zones 8-11. If you live in a colder zone, consider growing the plant indoors.
Common Pests & Diseases
Oxalis Rubens is relatively pest and disease-resistant, but it can be susceptible to mealybugs and spider mites. To prevent these pests, ensure that the plant has adequate air circulation and avoid overwatering.
Habitat
Oxalis Rubens is native to Brazil, where it grows in tropical and subtropical areas. It prefers moist, well-drained soil and partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Oxalis Rubens be grown outdoors?
A: Yes, Oxalis Rubens can be grown outdoors in USDA zones 8-11, as long as it is planted in well-drained soil and partial shade.
Q: How often should I fertilize my Oxalis Rubens?
A: Feed your Oxalis Rubens with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
Q: How often should I water my Oxalis Rubens?
A: Water your Oxalis Rubens when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Be sure not to overwater, as this can lead to root rot.
Q: How do I propagate Oxalis Rubens?
A: Oxalis Rubens can be propagated by division, or by planting stem cuttings in moist soil.
Related Plants
- Oxalis triangularis
- Oxalis adenophylla
- Oxalis deppei
- Oxalis regnellii
References
- “Oxalis Rubens.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=260053.
- “Oxalis Rubens.” NC State Extension, https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/oxalis-rubens/.
- “Pink Shamrock.” The Spruce, https://www.thespruce.com/pink-shamrock-plant-profile-4843981.
