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Description
Oxalis Triangularis, commonly known as the Purple Shamrock, is a herbaceous perennial plant that belongs to the Oxalidaceae family. It is native to Brazil and is now widely grown as an ornamental plant worldwide. The plant’s name comes from its three-lobed leaves that are shaped like a triangle. The leaves are green on the upper side and purple underneath, with a velvety texture. Its flowers bloom in shades of pink or white and have five petals.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Oxalidales |
| Family | Oxalidaceae |
| Genus | Oxalis |
Appearance
The Purple Shamrock grows up to 12 inches tall and 6 inches wide, making it a perfect fit for indoor planters. The plant has a bulbous root system, and its leaves grow in a rosette pattern. The leaves are thin and delicate, with a deep purple color underneath that contrasts beautifully with the green upper side. The flowers bloom on long, thin stems that rise above the foliage, and each flower is about 1 inch in diameter. They have five petals and come in shades of pink or white, with yellow centers.
Care Guide
For optimal growth of the Purple Shamrock, follow these care guidelines:
- Water: Water the plant regularly, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged. Avoid letting the plant sit in standing water.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced liquid fertilizer.
- Soil: Plant the Purple Shamrock in well-draining soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers bright, indirect light, but it can also tolerate some shade.
- Hardiness Zones: The Purple Shamrock is hardy in USDA zones 8-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Purple Shamrock is relatively pest and disease resistant but can be susceptible to spider mites, mealybugs, and aphids. Root rot can also occur if the plant is overwatered or planted in poorly-draining soil. To prevent these issues, examine the plant regularly and take prompt action if you notice any signs of pests or disease.
Habitat
The Purple Shamrock is native to Brazil and requires a warm, humid environment to thrive. It is commonly grown as an indoor plant worldwide and can also be grown outdoors in tropical and subtropical regions.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water my Purple Shamrock?
A: Water the plant regularly, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged. Avoid letting the plant sit in standing water.
Q: What is the ideal pH for the Purple Shamrock’s soil?
A: The Purple Shamrock prefers well-draining soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0.
Q: How often should I fertilize my Purple Shamrock?
A: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced liquid fertilizer.
Q: What are the hardiness zones for the Purple Shamrock?
A: The Purple Shamrock is hardy in USDA zones 8-11.
Related Plants
- Oxalis Regnellii (Purple-leaved Shamrock)
- Oxalis Deppei (Iron Cross)
- Oxalis Triangularis subsp. Papilionacea (Butterfly Oxalis)
References
- “Oxalis triangularis.” Missouri Botanical Garden. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=277614&isprofile=0&
- “Oxalis triangularis.” University of Florida IFAS Extension. https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/fp736
- “Oxalis triangularis.” Gardening Know How. https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/houseplants/shamrock/growing-shamrock-plants.htm
