Oxalis bicolor - Candy Cane Shamrock

Introducing Oxalis bicolor, a delightful addition to any container garden, be it indoors or outdoors. This charming perennial plant, a member of the Oxalidaceae family, boasts a plethora of common names, including Shamrock, False Shamrock, Good Luck Plant, Wood Sorrel, and Picnic Flower, & more, reflecting its rich cultural significance and symbolic associations with luck, love, and prosperity.

Ed's Plant Profile:

• Taxonomy: Oxalidaceae
• Common Names: Shamrock, False Shamrock, Good Luck Plant, Wood Sorrel, Candy Cane Sorrel, Picnic Flower
• Native Range: Originally hailing from Brazil and other parts of South America, Oxalis triangularis has found its way into gardens worldwide, thriving in regions spanning North America, Europe, and Asia.
• Symbolism: Beyond its botanical beauty, Oxalis holds historical and cultural significance, symbolizing various virtues like luck, love, and prosperity.

Ed's Care Guide:

• Light: Flourishes in bright indirect light, though partial shade is also tolerated.
• Water: Keep soil consistently moist, watering when the top inch feels dry; reduce watering during winter dormancy.
• Soil: Optimal growth occurs in well-draining, slightly acidic soil with a pH between 5.5 and 6.5. A blend of potting soil, perlite, and peat moss ensures ideal conditions, while general-purpose potting mix suffices.
• Humidity: Maintaining humidity levels between 40-60% is favorable for Oxalis.
• Temperature: Thrives in temperatures ranging from 60-75°F (15-24°C).
• Feeding: Apply a balanced water-soluble fertilizer with equal parts nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium (e.g., 10-10-10 or 20-20-20 formula) during the growing season.
• Propagation: Easily propagated through division of bulbs or corms, or via stem cuttings.
• Pests: Generally resilient to pests, yet remain vigilant for aphids, spider mites, and mealybugs.
• Toxicity: While generally non-toxic, exercise caution around pets.
• Growth: Typically reaches heights and widths of 6 to 12 inches.
• Fun Fact: Placing Oxalis outdoors can attract fluttering butterflies, adding an enchanting touch to your garden.

Elevate your green space with Oxalis bicolor, a whimsical and versatile plant that brings both aesthetic charm and cultural significance into your home or garden.