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Description
Oxalis Tetraphylla Iron Cross, also known as Iron Cross Shamrock, is a perennial plant that belongs to the Oxalidaceae family. It is a native of South America and has become popular as an indoor or outdoor plant in many countries. The plant features four-leaf clovers that form a cross shape, which is why it is called the Iron Cross Shamrock. The leaves are triangular in shape, and the plant has small white or pale pink flowers that bloom in the summer.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Oxalidales |
| Family | Oxalidaceae |
| Genus | Oxalis |
Appearance
The Oxalis Tetraphylla Iron Cross is a small plant that usually grows up to 6 inches tall. Its leaves are green and shaped like a triangle, with each leaf measuring about 1 inch in length. The leaves are clustered together at the base of the stem and are arranged in a rosette pattern. The plant is known for its four-leaf clovers that form a cross shape. The flowers are small and white or pale pink, and they bloom in the summer.
Care Guide
Water: The plant requires moderate watering. Water the plant when the top inch of soil is dry to the touch.Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once every two weeks during the growing season. Use a balanced fertilizer with equal parts nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.Soil: The plant prefers well-draining, slightly acidic soil with a pH between 5.5 and 6.5.Sunlight: The plant prefers bright, indirect sunlight. It can tolerate some direct sunlight but avoid placing it in full sun.Hardiness Zones: The plant can grow in hardiness zones 8 to 10.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Oxalis Tetraphylla Iron Cross is susceptible to aphids, spider mites, and mealybugs. These pests can be controlled by spraying the plant with a mixture of water and dish soap. The plant is also prone to root rot, which can be prevented by ensuring the soil is well-draining and not overwatering.
Habitat
The Oxalis Tetraphylla Iron Cross is native to South America, particularly in Brazil, Argentina, and Uruguay. The plant prefers well-draining soil and can be found growing in open fields, woodlands, and along roadsides.
Question and Answer
Q: Can I grow Oxalis Tetraphylla Iron Cross in a hanging basket?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in a hanging basket as long as it receives bright, indirect sunlight.Q: How often should I fertilize the plant?
A: Fertilize the plant once every two weeks during the growing season.Q: What is the ideal pH for the plant’s soil?
A: The plant prefers well-draining, slightly acidic soil with a pH between 5.5 and 6.5.Q: Does the plant require a lot of water?
A: No, the plant requires moderate watering. Water the plant when the top inch of soil is dry to the touch.
Related Plants
- Oxalis triangularis
- Oxalis deppei
- Oxalis pes-caprae
- Oxalis acetosella
References
- “Oxalis tetraphylla.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c480.
- “Oxalis tetraphylla.” Plants for a Future, www.pfaf.org/user/Plant.aspx?LatinName=Oxalis+tetraphylla.
- “Growing Shamrocks – Oxalis tetraphylla.” Gardeners’ World Magazine, www.gardenersworld.com/how-to/grow-plants/how-to-grow-oxalis-tetraphylla/.
