Purple shamrock
Oxalis triangularis
Perennial houseplant with distinctive purple, triangular clover-like leaves and delicate pink or white flowers; grown from bulbs/rhizomes for ornamental foliage.
Caution: Toxic to Pets
Toxicity: mildly toxic
Contains oxalates that can cause oral irritation, drooling, vomiting or stomach upset if ingested by pets or children; not usually life-threatening but avoid ingestion.
🌱Care Requirements
Light
Place in bright, indirect light such as an east- or north-facing window or behind a sheer curtain. Avoid prolonged strong afternoon sun which can bleach or scorch the purple leaves; provide a few hours of morning sun if possible.
Water
Water thoroughly when the top 2–3 cm (¾–1¼ inch) of soil is dry. Allow excess to drain and never let the pot sit in water. Reduce frequency during cooler months or dormancy; err on the side of slight dryness rather than constant wetness.
Humidity
Prefers moderate indoor humidity. Normal home levels are usually adequate; raise humidity with a pebble tray, grouping plants, occasional misting, or a small humidifier in very dry air.
Temperature
Ideal 15–24°C (59–75°F). Avoid sustained exposure below 10°C (50°F) or prolonged highs above 30°C (86°F), which can cause stress, leaf drop, or dormancy disruption.
🔧Common Problems & Solutions
Yellow, mushy leaves and rotting crowns
Cause: Overwatering, poorly draining soil or waterlogged pot
Solution: Improve drainage, repot into fresh well-draining mix, reduce watering and remove rotten tissue. Allow soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Leaf edges bleached or scorched, browning tips
Cause: Too much direct afternoon sun or hot, dry conditions
Solution: Move to bright indirect light, provide shade from intense sun, increase humidity and avoid hot drafts.
Sudden collapse or loss of leaves (plant looks dead)
Cause: Natural dormancy or stress from temperature/light changes
Solution: Reduce watering, keep bulbs cool and slightly dry during dormancy; resume normal care in spring and new growth should appear.
Sticky residue, distorted growth or cottony clusters
Cause: Pests like aphids, mealybugs or scale
Solution: Isolate plant, wipe leaves with soapy water, use insecticidal soap or neem oil and repeat treatments until pests are gone.
✂️How to Propagate Purple shamrock
Best propagated by dividing tubers/offsets in spring. Gently remove plant from pot, brush away soil and separate small bulbs or offsets that have their own roots. Replant each bulb 2–3 cm deep in fresh, well-draining mix, water lightly and keep warm with bright indirect light. Seeds can be sown on surface of moist mix and kept warm and humid until germination.
🌍Origin & Background
Family: Oxalidaceae
Native to: Native to South America, especially Brazil and nearby regions; widely cultivated worldwide.
Natural Habitat: Occurs in shaded understories, forest edges and rocky slopes with dappled light, seasonal rain and well-draining soil; tolerates brief dry periods and partial shade.
🗓Seasonal Care Guide
Winter
Expect reduced growth or dormancy; keep cool (around 10–15°C), cut back watering, provide bright indirect light and avoid fertilizing until spring.
Spring
Resume regular watering and light feeding as new growth appears; repot or divide bulbs if crowded and place in bright indirect light.
Summer
Provide bright indirect light and steady moisture; protect from intense afternoon sun and maintain moderate humidity and good airflow.
Fall
Gradually reduce fertilizing and monitor for dormancy signs; allow soil to dry a bit more and lower water frequency as growth slows.
❓Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I water my purple shamrock?
Water when the top 2–3 cm of soil is dry, typically every 7–14 days depending on season, pot size and indoor conditions.
Does Oxalis triangularis like direct sun?
It prefers bright, indirect light; a few hours of morning sun are fine but avoid harsh afternoon sun that scorches leaves.
Why are my purple shamrock leaves folding or drooping?
Leaves naturally fold at night or during stress and dormancy; check light, water and temperature to ensure conditions are stable.
How often should I repot or divide this plant?
Repot or divide every 1–2 years in spring when bulbs crowd the pot or growth slows; division refreshes vigor.
Is purple shamrock toxic to cats and dogs?
Yes, it contains oxalates and is mildly toxic; ingestion can cause drooling, oral irritation or stomach upset, so avoid access.
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Last updated: 11/7/2025