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Description
Oxalis Obliquifolia, commonly known as the Pink Shamrock, is a member of the Oxalidaceae family. It is a perennial plant that is native to South Africa and is known for its strikingly beautiful pink and white flowers that bloom in the spring and summer months. The plant is a popular choice among gardeners due to its compact size, lush foliage, and ornamental value.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Oxalidales |
| Family | Oxalidaceae |
| Genus | Oxalis |
Appearance
The Oxalis Obliquifolia has a compact, mounding growth habit and can reach a height of up to 8 inches. It has trifoliate leaves that are bright green and have a clover-like shape. The leaves are approximately 1 inch in width and have a smooth texture. The plant blooms in the spring and summer months, producing pink and white flowers that are approximately 1 inch in diameter. The flowers have five petals and are held above the foliage on thin stems.
Care Guide
The Oxalis Obliquifolia is an easy to care for plant that requires moderate attention. Here are some care tips:
Water: The plant prefers consistently moist soil, but be careful not to overwater as this can lead to root rot. Water the plant when the top inch of soil is dry.
Fertilization: Fertilize the plant every two weeks during the growing season using a balanced fertilizer.
Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
Sunlight: The plant prefers bright, indirect light. Avoid exposing the plant to direct sunlight as this can scorch the foliage.
Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in zones 8-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Oxalis Obliquifolia is relatively pest and disease resistant. However, it can be susceptible to spider mites and aphids. Overwatering can also lead to root rot.
Habitat
The Oxalis Obliquifolia is native to South Africa and is commonly found growing in open grasslands, scrublands, and savannas. In its natural habitat, the plant grows in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
Question and Answer
Q: Can the Oxalis Obliquifolia be grown indoors?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown indoors as long as it is provided with bright, indirect light.
Q: How often should the Oxalis Obliquifolia be fertilized?
A: The plant should be fertilized every two weeks during the growing season using a balanced fertilizer.
Q: Can the Oxalis Obliquifolia tolerate drought?
A: No, the plant prefers consistently moist soil and cannot tolerate drought.
Q: Can the Oxalis Obliquifolia be propagated?
A: Yes, the plant can be propagated through division or stem cuttings.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to the Oxalis Obliquifolia:
- Oxalis Triangularis
- Oxalis Deppei
- Oxalis Regnellii
- Oxalis Versicolor
References
- “Oxalis Obliquifolia” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=k780
- “Pink Shamrock (Oxalis Obliquifolia)” Gardenia, www.gardenia.net/plant-variety/pink-shamrock-oxalis-obliquifolia
- “Oxalis Obliquifolia” Plantz Africa, www.plantzafrica.com/plantnop/oxalisobliq.htm
