Oxalis purpurea
TAXONOMY
FamilyOxalidaceae
GenusOxalis
Zone9
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Oxalis purpurea, commonly known as Purple Shamrock or Purple Wood Sorrel, is a tuberous geophyte native to South Africa. It belongs to the family Oxalidaceae and the genus Oxalis. This plant is known for its striking purple foliage and delicate pink or white flowers. It thrives in subtropical climates and has a dormancy period during the hotter months.
ALSO KNOWN AS
Acetosella Breviscapa
Acetosella Laburnifolia
Acetosella Stictophylla
Acetosella Variabilis
Purple Wood Sorrel
Acetosella purpurea
Oxalis aemula
Oxalis arthrophylla
Oxalis breviscapa
Oxalis grandiflora
Oxalis humilis
Oxalis laburnifolia
Oxalis laevigata
Oxalis laxula
Oxalis reptatrix
Oxalis rigidula
Oxalis sanguinea
Oxalis speciosa
Oxalis strictophylla
Oxalis suggillata
Oxalis variabilis
Oxalis venusta
OVERVIEW
VPDCalculate
WaterMoist
SoilLoamy
LightIndirect Bright (6 Hours)
Temperature20° C
Humidity60%
Dormancy2 Months
pH6.5
Pressure1,013 mbar
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DETAILS
Care Instructions
Oxalis purpurea requires bright, indirect light and moderate temperatures. It prefers a humid environment but can tolerate average household humidity levels. Water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry, and reduce watering during its dormancy period. Ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal issues.Soil
Oxalis purpurea prefers well-draining loam soil. A mix of potting soil with added perlite or sand works well to ensure proper drainage. Avoid waterlogged conditions, as this can lead to root rot.Fertilizer
Fertilize Oxalis purpurea with a balanced fertilizer, such as 5-10-10, during the growing season. Apply the fertilizer every 4-6 weeks to support healthy growth and flowering. Reduce or stop fertilizing during the dormancy period.Repotting
Repot Oxalis purpurea every 1-2 years or when the plant outgrows its container. Choose a pot that is slightly larger than the current one and ensure it has drainage holes. Gently remove the plant from its old pot, shake off excess soil, and place it in the new pot with fresh soil.Propagation
Oxalis purpurea can be propagated through division of its tubers. The best time to propagate is during the dormancy period. Carefully separate the tubers and plant them in individual pots with well-draining soil. Water sparingly until new growth appears.Pruning
Pruning is not typically required for Oxalis purpurea. However, you can remove any dead or yellowing leaves to maintain the plant's appearance. Use clean, sharp scissors to make clean cuts.Toxicity
Oxalis purpurea is toxic to pets and humans if ingested. The plant contains oxalic acid, which can cause symptoms such as vomiting, drooling, and difficulty swallowing. Keep the plant out of reach of children and pets.Additional
Oxalis purpurea can be grown both indoors and outdoors. When grown indoors, place it near a bright window with indirect light. Outdoors, it can be planted in a shaded or partially shaded area. The plant may go dormant during the hottest months, so reduce watering and allow it to rest during this period.REVOLUTIONIZE YOUR PLANT CARE
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