A guide to growing Oxalis Adenophylla
Commonly known as Chilean oxalis or silver shamrock, the Oxalis Adenophylla is native to Argentina and Chile. It is a clumping alpine perennial and does will in a variety of environments, such as far-north locations like Sweden, Norway and Nova Scotia, as well as temperate zones. Its cold-hardiness comes from the bulb's adaptation to freezing during dormancy.
It is an ideal plant for rock gardens, but can also be used in borders, windowboxes, and pots for patios and balconies.
Plant Characteristics
This variety has a bright bloom that reappears each year in early summer, composed of pretty small pinkish flowers, in a funnel shape.
The leaves are heart-shaped and measure from 1 to 2 cm length. The foliage disappears during the coldest months to reappear quickly with the arrival of spring.
- Plant height: 5-8 cm
- Flower diameter: 1-3 cm
- Preferred climate: Mediterranean
- Hardy plant until -20.5°C (USDA Zone 6B)
- Growing difficulty: Beginner
- Pruning period: January
Starting Your Bulbs
- Planting period: Sept. to Dec.
- Soil pH: All
- Soil type: Clay-loam (rich and light)
Plant in any humus-rich, moderately fertile, well-drained soil in full sun or partial shade. Dislikes excessive and wet winters. Protect with a dry winter mulch in colder areas. Suitable for rock gardens, troughs, and alpine houses.
Oxalis is planted from September to December. For a beautiful bloom, cultivate it with direct sunlight, in a bright place. The soil must be dry and well drained. Plant it 10 cm deep with 10 cm spacing between bulbs. Avoid excessive watering and wet the soil thoroughly. Oxalis can be subject to rust. Snails and slugs will eat it.
Care details
- Light: Thrives in bright indirect to bright direct light (sun to semi-shade).
- Water: Water every 1-2 weeks, when the top 2 centimeters (1 inch) of soil becomes dry. Make sure your pot has drainage holes. Expect to water more often in brighter light and less often in lower light.
- Humidity: Any humidity level will do. Normal room humidity is fine.
- Temperature: Best not to let it go below 60°F (15°C).
- Fertilize: Once a month during the growing season using a slow-release blend.
- Pruning: Pinch off any dead foliage.
- Propagation: You can get your oxalis to reproduce once a year by propagation - separation of the rhizomes.
Wintering your bulbs
Oxalis adenophylla is dormant in winter. They are not fully cold hardy, so while they can stay in the ground, they need some protection or a cover.
Buy our Oxalis Adenophylla here.
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