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Shamrocks (Oxalis)

The earliest reference to the shamrock was in the 5th century when St. Patrick used the shamrock to explain the Trinity to the Druids. There is no proof of knowing that this really happened, however, the shamrock continued to become a part of Irish legend and history. Today in Ireland, the three-lobed leaf is a symbol of Ireland and is proudly worn as a “good luck” badge on St. Patrick’s day.

The “lucky clover” is not the same as the Shamrock plant sold at the grocery stores around St. Patrick’s day. The word shamrock is derived from Celtic word, “trefoil” (three-leafed), or “little clover”. Trifolium repens is the small white clover that is found in lawns and also used as a green manure cover crop. Irish experts consider this to be the true shamrock. Although, others may argue that the yellow flowered (Trifolium dubium) is the real deal. Both are difficult to grow indoors.

Lucky Shamrock
The ones sold in grocery stores referred to as a “shamrock” belong to a large family of Oxalis with over 800 varieties, native to Chile and South Africa. They grow from small corms or tuberous roots which produce delicate, clover-like leaves that are light sensitive and close on cloudy days and at night (nyctinstic movements). The leaves range from a green to purple with flowers that come in a variety of colors; white, cream, yellow, pink, purple and red.
Oxalis regnelli, sold as the shamrock plant, has white flowers and green foliage. Another version, O. triangularis has purple leaves with pinkish to white flowers.

Oxalis triangularis

CARE
Indoors – keep in a well-lit location (east or west window) away from hot and cold drafts at temperatures of 60-70F during the day and 55-65F at night. They should be kept barely moist at all times and not allowed to stand in water as that will cause root rot. Fertilize every 2 -4 weeks with a houseplant fertilizer. The plant is relatively pest free and may be planted outdoors when the weather gets warm or kept as a houseplant. After blooming, if the plant dies back, allow it to go dormant for 1-3 months. The corms should be kept cool and dry. After dormancy, repot and or divide the corms (optional). When signs of new growth emerge, begin to water, fertilize and move to a sunny spot. Oxalis regnelli and O.triangularis are hardy in zone 6-10. There are hardier varieties that can be grown outdoors as a nice ground cover.
Troubleshooting: Tall & lanky plant – needs more light, too warm (temps over 75)
Yellowing plant – watering too much.
May the luck of the Irish be with you!
Happy St. Patty’s!!

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77 comments to Shamrocks (Oxalis)

  • Marilyn Bradley

    Brown margins on leaves
    If the edges of my Shamrock are turning brown, what does that mean? It is growing and seems to do well except for the browning. Thanks

    It may be a watering problem. Too much or not enough. Another factor is too much or too little nutrients. If it is actively growing and the plant hasn’t been fertilized, add diluted fertilizer with your water once a wk. If you are fertilizing and the edges are brown, elliminate fertilization. Low light and humidity can also cause brown edges. If the leaves are dying back (getting less and no flowers) chances are that your shamrock is starting to go dormant until the next growing season.

  • theodore B

    Droopy stems
    To Dawn B: we too had problems with drooping long stemmed leaves and blossoms .we fashioned a four legged affair topped by a thin square of scrap panneling with a circular 8″ dia hole. we slit a old garden hose to line the edge for friendly corners. hose length Pi x dia , roughly 3×10 in or case.the legs were 3/4 sq wood stock screwed to bottom of the sq. panel,they are 2-3″ longer than depth of pot. we lowered the pot thr u the hole from above ,the rounded edge collared the stems ever so gently.good luck .it worked swell for us

  • Jean Evans

    Fungus gnats
    My Shamrock Plant is doing well – except it has somehow has attracted these small gnat-like insects. How can I get rid of these? I was thinking of handling it systemically with a product?

    You may have fungus gnat-grayish small black flies. They live in moist soil and feed on decaying organic material-the result of overwatering and possibly “older soil”. One approach to controlling them is to allow the soil to dry out for several days. The larvae live in the top layer of the soil and once its dry they die and the adults have no place to lay their eggs. There are also biological controls such as parasitic nematodes, predatory mites and Gnatrol (B.T. var. israelensis). The use of a soil drench is also recommended but be sure to check the label for houseplant use. For more info check TAMU.edu/ext

  • tyler

    Question: my purple shamrock plant is a few years old and is dormant, I think, for the first time. I’ve stopped watering for the most part and keep the room dark. I’m noticing that the corms are sticking out well above the soil line and the leaves don’t look very healthy. I don’t want the plant to die – what should I do? Thanks!

    Do nothing at this time. The leaves will dry up and this is normal when the plant goes to dormancy. There are several kinds of Oxalis that have different blooming times. If yours bloomed in the spring then new growth should start in the fall. Summer blooming plants start in spring and fall blooming in July/Aug. Replant it in fresh soil a few months. Start to water lightly and it should start to grow again.

  • Karen

    Chlorotic ring spot virus
    My indoor shamrock plants have developed white and brown spots over all the leaves. Is there a way to treat this problem?

    It’s hard to tell without a picture. They have few pest and diseases. One disease that they do get is Shamrock chlorotic ring spot which is transmitted by an insect (aphid). There is no treatment and it will eventually kill the plant.

  • Lisa

    Are the white tubers stemming from the corms of the purple Oxalis viable for planting/flourishing or should I toss them after harvesting the corms? Are they poisonous (oxalic acid)?

    The white tuberous roots can also be planted. Oxalis is listed as having low toxicity level. The more you eat the sicker you’ll get. I don’t recommend you eat any of it. Check http://www.ces.ncsu.edu for more info on poisonous plants.

  • deborah

    How deep and how many
    my oxalis needs to be repotted. all i read so far has not mentioned how deep to set the corms. please inform me of any rule of thumb.

    Plant them 1 1/2 to 2 inches deep. They should be covered with 1 inch of soil. A 6 inch pot can hold 6-9 tubers.

  • Jeanne K

    I have had a purple oxalis plant for several months. When it was purchased, it had about 4 leaves and a few flowers. A few more leaves grew, the flowers fell off, and now for the past several months there have been only 6 leaves. I water it frequently and live in a low light apartment. What should I do to make it grow again? Thank you.

    Sounds like your plant needs a dormant period some need a rest to re-energize. Let it dry out and keep it in a cool,dark place for a month, then bring it out, replant and start to water it. Perhaps that will get it out of the slump its been.

  • Nicole

    Dormancy
    My poor purple shamrock now only has one stem left. I’ve had it for about 3 years, and it seems to go up and down from an abundance of leaves and flowers to just a few. I assume that is typical because it always bounces back. This time, I’m not so sure because there’s no sign of new growth. Is there anything I can do to save it, or is it time to look for a new one? This was my favorite plant!

    Your shamrock needs a rest/vacation. I know its a bad time -especially before St. Patricks day. Let it go dormant for 2-3 months-stop watering and put the pot in a cool, dark place(see above suggestions). When you bring it back out and it starts to grow again, put it in a sunny location and feed it with a houseplant fertilizer.

  • Rose Schlosser

    My 10 year old shamrock has developed whitish, grayish spots that seem to be fungal in nature. When new leaves appear, they are perfect, but soon “catch” the fungus from existing leaves. There are no aphids, flies or other insects that I can observe. Otherwise the plant seems to be healthy, and produces abundant white flowers. Any solution to my problem?

    Shamrocks don’t have too many disease or pests. From your discription it can be Shamrock chlorotic ring spot caused by a virus that was transmitted by an aphid. Eventhough there are no aphids that you can see, it could have been “infected” at another time when the plant was in a weakened state. There is nothing you can do for this virus.

  • Dave

    I am going to replant my “Shamrock” or Oxalis and have never did it before and I have a few questions. You mentioned the planting depth should be 1 1/2 to 2 inches deep but do you plant the “Tuber” or “Rhizome” vertical or horizontal in the pot?? Kind of a weird question but I really dont want to kill my little friend. Oh, do you seperate the little seeds off of the tuber as well and plant the seeds that that way? My Sham and I would appreciate your help and I have bookmarked your page for future referances. Thanks for the help. :)

    Poke them into the soil, you don’t have to worry which side is up, they will grow from any position. I would leave the “little seeds” on the tuber so they have a chance to get bigger.

  • Gary

    How long will it take for a dormant shamrock to start to grow, and how can I tell if it is dormant or just dead?

    They can be dormant for 1-3 months. Keep them in a cool, dry environment. Check the corms to see if they are firm.

  • Dewey Elliott

    Do purple shamrocks, if planted outside, spread as bad as green shamrocks?

    The purple oxalis (Oxalis regnelli, triangularis) is not considered invasive. They will spread by bulbs, runners and seeds but at a slower rate than the green oxalis.

  • Robyn Maitland

    I recently moved and after being in my new apartment for two weeks I have started noticing yellow, greenish spots that look almost “sprayed” on the leaves of my very healthy Shamrocks! Could this be chlorotic ring spotting?
    Is it possible it came from something off of the dusty blinds in the new place? Will my other plants near it get infected too?
    Thanks! :(

    It’s hard to tell without seeing it. If the new leaves are coming up normal then it could have been some kind of chemical exposure that spotted your leaves. Is the plant still producing lots of leaves or are they slowly decreasing? If so your shamrock may be going dormant

    .

  • roninofako

    how long does it take for bulbs to sprout? Planted mine 2 weeks ago and nothing yet…using peat pellets and keeping moist, but not saturated, am I doing this correctly? Oh, and plenty of light during the day and temps are within acceptable limits…

    I’m not sure how long it takes to sprout but I would think that it needs some time to develop a root system. It sounds like you are doing everything right just watch the watering not too much or the corm will rot. Be patient. Some things are worth waiting for.

  • GILLIAN HOLT

    I have small baby oxalis growing out from the top of my flowers on my Triangularis what do I do with them , can I just pot them up? etc thanks for any help re this question

    You can repot them or place them in the existing pot to grow with the rest of the plant.

  • Robyn Maitland

    I posted a comment weeks ago saying that I had moved and my shamrocks were spotting and seemingly dying quickly…
    I just wanted to update you and tell you that I continued to pull the spotted stalks and then had to go out of town for a few days – when I returned, I found them healthy again and thriving!
    Thanks for your help :) Robyn Maitland

    Hooray!That’s great!

  • LISA

    CUpdate on my shamrock - all the leaves died and now I have 10 new leaves :) )
    One question – my plant had an upper layer of moss which I removed so some of the corms are exposed slightly above the soil – shall I add some soil to cover the corms or is it ok for them to be exposed?

    Slightly exposed corms are ok, if you add a bit of soil (1/2 inch) on top of them they will benefit from additonal nutrients in the soil.

  • kim

    I HAVE A PURPLE SHAMROCK AND THE LEAVES ARE SO LONG AND THEY’RE DROOPING NOT MATTER HOW MUCH OR HOW LITTLE I WATER THEM. SOMEONE TOLD ME TO CUT THEM ALL DOWN AND THEY’LL COME BACK. IS THIS TRUE? I’M AFRAID I’LL KILL IT IF I CUT IT BACK.

    When the leaves are tall and lanky they either need more sun or they are too warm (temps over 75 degrees)

  • Shiona

    Shamrocks (Oxalis) Can anyone tell me if the sap from the common Oaxlis could make skin burn &tingle? Inadvertantly got some sap(i think) on my lip whilst weeding today. Very unpleasant!! Shiona

    Oxalis is listed as having low toxicity level. The oxalic acid gives that unpleasant taste. Check http://www.ces.ncsu.edu for more info on poisonous plants.

  • kim

    Shamrocks (Oxalis)I have had a purple oxalis in my front garden for years and have basically ignored it. It comes back bigger and better every year. This year I have noticed that the leaves have an orange spots on their underside. What is this? Help
    Kim, San Antonio, TX

    It’s possible that you have a rust caused by a fungus- Puccinia oxalidis (red rust) or “Puccinia sorghi which appears as yellowish dots near the margins of the leaves and later pale orange pustules break out.”1 Remove the damaged(rusty) leaves when the plant is dry and destroy them. Keep the leaves as dry as possible and water in the morining so the plant has time to dry out. Plants should not be crowded and need good air circulation. P. sorghi doesn’t do enough damage to warrant spraying. P. oxalidis is more destructive.
    1Diseaes of Ornamental Plants-Pirone

  • kiki

    I received a pot of purple oxalis as a gift a few months ago— the plant was a sample of a larger plant that had been growing for quite some time. I have never seen it grow flowers, and it usually has only around ten leaves (the plant is not very dense). But the leaves it does have are large and healthy-looking. Could the problem be that it’s so warm this time of year, or should I let it go dormant for a month? How can I tell?

    Let it continue to grow as this is a good growing time. Keep it in a light shaded area outdoors and it may perk up. Also give it a light dose of 10-10-10 fertilizer to stimulate more growth. If it is too hot outdoors keep it inside and fertilize. The plant will tell you when it’s going dormant. It will produce less new growth, then let it dry out and store.

  • Rae in MO

    Shamrocks (Oxalis)
    I was given a root mass of oxalis regnellii…separated the rhizomes and have repotted 1 rhizome per large coffee mug (with rocks in the bottom for drainage) to give as gifts. Little plants are growing well and started blooming with 2 weeks of being planted in mid-August. I have 2 questions: I would like to be able to tell the gift recipients how long they can expect it to take before they would need to divide or repot their plants. Since the plants started blooming immediately, I would also like to know when you think their normal “growing season” is–summer or fall? Thanks for your help!

    You can repot after blooming when the container is full of rhizomes or overcrowded. It can take one year or more depending on how well the plant grows. The normal growing season is summer. They may continue to bloom through the fall and then go dormant for a few months.

  • Ellen in South Georgia,USA

    Shamrocks (Oxalis) My shamrocks are years old. I never remember them going dormant. The inside plants both have developed the white spots similar to your description of chlorotic ring spot. They’re in an east window with African violets and orchids. Neither of these seem to have the spots. Do I discard the shamrocks? What about the other plants? Thanks.

    Oxalis is susceptible to chlorotic ring spot virus transmitted by aphids. It will not affect the african violet or orchids. If it is worth the effort, isolate the diseased shamrock plant and repot the healthy corms in fresh soil. As there is no cure, see if the plant will recover on its own if not … you gave it a try.

  • Jvincent

    When my shamrocks came out of hibernation last year, they got really “leggy.” They have Western light, and lean like crazy. Would they be happier in the ground (in central Florida), or should I wait until the next dormancy? Or might they need a bigger container than the 7″ clay pot they’re in?

    Shamrocks can get tall and leggy when they don’t get enough light and are too warm. Ease the container into a brighter location and see what happens. I wouldn’t repot until they are dormant. Shamrocks can live in a container for years without repotting. If you see a decline in growth then, you may need to repot. They will also do well planted outdoors in the spring in dappled shade and should come up every year. They are hardy in zone 8-11. I’m not sure how well your leggy shamrocks would survive a transplant outdoors-it may trigger dormancy or some of it would die back and start producing new leaves.

    Shamrocks (Oxalis)

  • C Brink

    Comment on Plant & Gardening Tips, for topic: Shamrocks (Oxalis)

    After reading this thread, I am assuming my pink-flowered oxalis has P. oxalis rust. These plants are in beds at the foot of Madame Galen trumpet vines which shade our arbor in the hot Texas summers. For the past 3 or more years the trumpet vine leaves have turned yellow, developed brown spots, and dropped and thus no shade for us. Are these two problems related?

    Is is possible that you have some kind of leaf spot fungal disease on the trumpet vine. It’s difficult to determine whether or not the rust is spreading to the vine but the treatment should take care of both. Fungal disease usually occurs in humid, wet (rainy) conditions. Here are some preventative treatments: 1. avoid overhead watering getting the foliage wet 2. provide good air circulation-which means you may have to thin out the vine 3. Sanitation- remove/rake all diseased leaves and don’t allow them to winter over as that will just re-infect the plant. 4. Apply a preventative fungicide before infection begins. Think of when this problem started and make sure to spray before hand. You may need several applications.

  • M. Powell

    Rust
    My purple Shamrocks have been growing happily in my Richmond, Virginia garden for years. Recenty, however they have developed a heavy coating of a yellow-orange powder which completely covers the underside of the leaves. In a few days, the affected leaves wither away. I do not see insects, so I assume the powder is a fungus. it does not seem to be affecting any other plants in the garden. However, purple shamrocks located in various areas are all affected. What should I do? I prefer the most eco-friendly approach possible.

    Hi

    There are 2 kinds of rusts that affect Oxalis 1. Puccinia sorghi – starts as neat, yellowish dots near the margins of the leaves; later pale orange pustules break out on the leaf. Theydo little damage.
    2. Red Rust (Puccinia oxalidis) Occurs in Fla. but may be up to your state. Can kill the plant within 2 wks. and has an alternate host Mahonia.
    Source: Diseases and Pest of Ornamental Plants Pirone
    Rust occurs in wet, rainy crowded conditions, in cool to warm-temperatures. The spores are spread by wind and splashing water and the closer the plants are the faster it spreads. Remove the infested leaves when plants are dry and destroy. Avoid overcrowding to allow for air circulation. Water early in the day .
    If all fails try a fungicide such as Daconil or Maxx-be sure to check the label so that it is safe to use on oxalis.

  • JEN

    Hello- I purchased a green shamrock plant about 4 months ago, since then it has grown very well and has bloomed constantly. Recently I have noticed that the leaves look “pitted” and some of the leaves have white spots on them. I have inspected the leaves for insects but have not found any. I have the plant sitting on a southeast window ledge where it seems to get plenty of sun light. Are these white spots considered chlorotic ring spot disease and if so any suggestions? Thank you

    Hi Jen
    It may be that it is Chlorotic ring spot. If you have an extension office close by, take in a leaf and see if they can identify it for you. At any rate CRS is caused by a virus and there is no cure. It can eventually kill the plant. Hopefully, the plant can fight it off and recover.

  • Margaret

    I have an Oxalis that I have had for about 2 years. It has been veryhealthy, but I cannot move it from its location by the window, otherwise it will just die down. As long as I leave it in its present location (easterly window) it continues to thrive

    I guess it likes where its at . It’s good to listen to your plants.

  • Kris

    I need a little help. My daughter gave me an oxalis triangularis (sp?) for Mother’s Day 2002, it was started in an old soup can at school. 2 years ago i finally got up the courage to repot it into a “real” flower pot. It flourished! Which is quite a feat for me (i have a black thumb). Anyways, now the pot has become too small and the corm (?) is beginning to stick out above the soil. I know i need to divide it and repot both into their own pots, but i’m an idiot when it comes to this. I have NO IDEA what to do or how to do it. Unfortunately the only info i’ve been able to find just says to divide the corm, how many inches, etc. I need to know how to divide the corm. Any help would be awesome because I’m afraid it’s not going to last much longer the way it is. Thank you!

    Hi Kris
    As oxalis continue to grow they will move up to the soil surface, which is ok. You don’t need to divide the corm, you can plant both corms in a larger pot. If you want to divide it be sure each half is at least 1-2 inches long with a growing “eye”, then cut it at a natural indentation. Plant them 1 1/2 to 2 inches deep. and cover with 1 inch of soil. Choose a container that is 1-2 inches larger than the present one.

  • Jen

    Great page. I have had my green Oxalis for 3 years – I don’t think it has ever gone completely dormant, until just recently when I thought I’d killed it. I was moving, and it wilted in the heat – then it was outside for some fresh air and a rainstorm broke all the stems. 1 little shoot survived, but died shortly after. The plant appeared completely dead, and dried out pretty well.
    I was so thrilled when 1 new shoot appeared a few weeks ago. Since then I have watered it and put it in the sunlight. It still only has 1 shoot. Is now a good time to repot (hasn’t been repotted in 3 yrs), or should I wait till it goes dormant again? What can I do to promote more growth – it still just has 1 stalk.

    Hi Jen
    Now is a good time to repot your oxalis in fresh soil. Repotting may be just what it needs to get started.

  • Jen

    The tips of the leaves of my oxalis are ruffly as if they’ve been nibbled on – there are a couple of small holes in the leaves too. I looked for pests, but can’t see anything on the leaves. There are a couple of small puckers in the leaves too, but otherwise they appear a nice dark green. Is there a pest? Please advise!

    It’s hard to say what kind of pest is nibbling on the leaves. If its outdoors, could be a rabbit having a taste test. Once you repot it bring it indoors to avoid additional “guests” in your container.

  • Natasha

    Shamrocks (Oxalis)
    I have recently taking a cutting of my very successful oxalis triangularis to France where it is growing nicely in a couple of pots inside. However I noticed on my last visit that it seems to have become ‘French’! By that I mean that the leaves seem to shut down between 12-3pm (even though it is in a bright spot) as if it is taking a ’siesta’, something my plants have never done in the UK. Can anyone explain why this might happen?
    Many thanks

    Hi Natasha
    The leaves of shamrocks are light sensitive ( nyctinstic ) and fold up on overcast, cloudy days and at night but why the response happens at 12-3 pm is interesting. Perhpas something is shading the plant at that time.

  • Jen

    Shamrocks (Oxalis)
    Oh – and to add to the above – the leaves were puckered/curled when they emerged from the soil. This has not progressed after they unfold.

    Hi Jen
    Skip the insecticidal soap unless you see some kind of insect on the plant and do not fertilize. When you repot a plant in fresh soil, there is enough fertilizer in it to keep the plant growing for a while. It may also be the type of soil that is affecting your shamrock’s new growth. Water reguarily but make sure that the soil isn’t too wet and eventually any excess will wash out of the soil.

  • Joyce

    Are the leaves of the shamrock (oxalis) plant edible? Can they be used as garnish on a salad for St. Patrick’s Day without making anyone ill?

    Hi Joyce
    From the research, Oxalis regnelli leaves and flowers are edible in small quatities. The leaves contain oxalic acid which gives them a sharp, acidic flavor adding zest to salads. Too much can be dangerous and cause digestion problems. Oxalis tuberosa was grown for its edible tubers.

  • Help,shamrocks have taken over my backyard. They are taking over all flowerpots. Shamrock is growing in the flowerbeds,in borders,everywhere. Where did it come from? Can it smother my potted plants? Should I enjoy this plant or be concerned? I have never purchased a shamrock plant,where did it all come from? Thanks!

    Hi Heidi
    There are many types of plants referred to as shamrocks and some are persistant weeds. The seeds can be spread by wind, birds, insects and people. I would pull any unwanted shamrock “weeds” or they will compete for nutirents and moisture with other plants.

  • Leslie

    I planted my corms as a houseplant 5 weeks ago. Nothing! Followed the guidelines. Light watering, about 12 hours + of indirect sunlight. Keep my house at 69 degrees. Am I doing something wrong?

  • Pam Scott

    I wanted to send a picture of the issue on my Oxalis shamrock, but I don’t see any links to that. My plant was healthy, is blooming and still sending up new leaves. I had divided and transplanted the bulbs a couple months ago when I thought it was going to die and I would lose the whole plant. I did not know it goes through a natural cycle as a houseplant. However, now leaves, one by one that looked healthy, are starting to turn green then brown and even turn a dark blue in spots around the edges, and eventually the whole plant dies. I have been using my aquarium water to water all my house plants. I also have a coleus that is also developing problems…looks like tan scabs on the underneath of the plant. Since this is happening to two plants at the same time, I am inclined to think it’s the fish water….maybe over doing it…thoughts? Sorry for the book. I don’t usually have problems with my plants in house.

    Hi Pam
    Could it be a matter of watering too much?

  • Kimberly

    Hi, I’ve repotted my shamrock and now the leaves are droopy and the leaves don’t open…HELP

    Your plant is suffering from transplant shock. Place it in a shaded area until it recuperates.

  • Nelya

    I got small oxalis root several years ago.It was blooming and I enjoyed it .Now leaves of the plants become rusty and get dryed.I removed leaves but it started again.Please give me advise what should I do? Thank you.Nelya

    It’s possible that you have a rust caused by a fungus- Puccinia oxalidis (red rust) or “Puccinia sorghi which appears as yellowish dots near the margins of the leaves and later pale orange pustules break out.”1 Remove the damaged(rusty) leaves when the plant is dry and destroy them. Keep the leaves as dry as possible and water in the morining so the plant has time to dry out. Plants should not be crowded and need good air circulation. P. sorghi doesn’t do enough damage to warrant spraying. P. oxalidis is more destructive.
    1Diseaes of Ornamental Plants-Pirone

  • Michelle

    My shamrocks,that came from the grocery store this past St. Patty’s day, were doing great until now. They have yellow spots on the top of the leaves but under the leaves is a bright orange powder. What can I use to kill whatever is hurting my plant?

    Hi Michelle
    It sounds like a rust caused by a fungus- Puccinia oxalidis (red rust) or “Puccinia sorghi which appears as yellowish dots near the margins of the leaves and later pale orange pustules break out.”1 Remove the damaged(rusty) leaves when the plant is dry and destroy them. Keep the leaves as dry as possible and water in the morining so the plant has time to dry out. Plants should not be crowded and need good air circulation. P. sorghi doesn’t do enough damage to warrant spraying. P. oxalidis is more destructive.
    1Diseaes of Ornamental Plants-Pirone

  • Skiann

    I just recently acquired some shamrock seeds. I have planted these seeds and the shamrocks are already growing nice and tall. Actually they are getting so tall that they are starting to fall over. Do these plants require a stake and being tied up?

    Hi Skiann
    Shamrocks normally do not require staking but they can get tall and lanky due to low light or too warm temperatures. See above comment from 2005/06/18 by Theo about droopy stems solution.

  • Christina

    I’ve had my purple shamrocks for 6 months and still only have about 10 stems and have never seen flowers. Is that normal and what should i be feeding them?

    Hi Christina
    If you can, place your shamrock outdoors in a shaded area with some direct AM sun. Slowly acclimate it to brighter light. Feed it a balanced houseplant fertilizer (10-10-10) or fish emulsion every two week during the growing season. See if that will jump start your Oxalis.

  • Kari

    Rust on shamrock
    I live in Virginia and have several purple shamrock plants in different locations through out my yard that develope small orange spots or pustules on the under side of the leafs. It eventually makes a hole in the leaf as if an insect is eating it. I followed your advise on previous posts and remove infective leaves as soon as I see the orange spots as well as increase the air flow. The problem is everytime new leafs come up they develope the orange spots and I have to pull them off. Is it possible the whole root is infected with something.
    HELP

  • we have pink shamrocks. the flowers and the clover-like leaves are beautiful!

  • Brenda

    I have recenty started a purple shamrock from one of my neighbors plants. So far there’s 4 shoots, each with a purple, shamrock type leave on the end…how long till the bulbs(tubulars) multiply so it starts to look like a real plant instead of 4 leaves in a pot??

    Hi Brenda
    I can’t really tell you how long it will take. If the plant is getting all the requirements it needs it will grow at a faster rate.

  • Kevin

    Aphids and slugs
    Hello. I have recently discovered aphids on my Oxalis. What should I do to get rid of them? Also, I have run across slugs eating my purple Oxalis. Is there a treatment to keep them off? Thanks.

    HI Kevin
    A spray of water can knock off the aphids. If infestation is severe, try insecticidal soap. Slugs like a moist, dark environment and can be control in several ways. Diatomatious earth, coffee grounds, wood ashes and egg shells can be used to deter the slimy critters.

  • Elaine

    I have a purple oxalis which i think is 3 years old.The leaves are turning pale and will not open during the day.Some of the corms are a little above the soil surface.It was very dense in the spring and summer it is now september and it is getting very sparse. Can you please help me as my daughter gave me this plant and I absolutely love it.Thanks for the help

    Hi Elaine
    It sounds as if your shamrock is going dormant.

  • Kelly

    After reading all this, I still need help! I have both green and purple oxalis. I’ve had the green one for a couple of years and it’s never gone dormant. Up until about two months ago, it was growing so much, I split it into two pots. I figured it might have to re-adjust after re-planting, but now it has white spots (which I’m reasonably certain is not caused by chlorotic ring spot), and the leaves are crumpling. They look like deflated balloons. Now the purple plant is starting the same thing. Should I let them dry out and go dormant or cut them back? It seems to still be growing, the leaves have good color, but it just looks terrible.

  • Irene

    My purple oxalis is turning green.HELP

    Hi Irene
    Your purple oxalis may not be getting enough light or the dominant green gene is taking over the purple one.

  • pjb

    Dividing oxalis tubers
    I repotted my purple oxalis from a 5″ pot and discovered roughly 30 tubers. Some are 1″ to 2″ long. Is it ok to break them in half and repot? I saw above that 6-9 tubers can be potted in a 6″ pot. I’m looking forward to having several pots of the purple oxalis. I like it much better than the green. However, it grows well for me too.
    Thanks for all the helpful advice!
    Good growing.

    Hi
    Sounds like your plant is happy in your home. I would pull apart the tubers and plant them as whole. If you break them make sure each section has an “eye” (growing point). It’s best to repot when the plant is dormant.

  • HARRY POTTER

    Drooping stems
    HELP — I HAVE OVER WATERED MY PLANT AND THE STEMS ARE DROOPING WHAT CAN I DO? PLEASE HELP I LOVE THIS PLANT

    Hi harry
    The best thing you can do is to let the plant dry out. Keep the plant on the dry side during the winter and water more when spring is near. If the soil is totally soggy, take out the tubers and plant them in fresh moist soil. The plant may also be going dormant for a few months.

  • Robert Arthur

    Oxalis toxicity
    We came home from shopping and found that our 16 pound cat had eaten 12 leaves of the Oxalis regallii (the leaves are small). We know that, in small quantities, the leaves may be used by humans in salads, however, our cat did not consider the leaves as salad. We have already contacted our Vet and they do not have much information as to the toxicity of the Oxalis leaves regarding ingestion by cats. Can you help us.
    Bob Arthur

    Hi Bob
    It can be toxic to cats. Check the ASPCA http://www.aspca.org/pet-care/poison-control/plants/shamrock-plant.html

  • ruth morris

    what soil type(s) do oxalis like in pots? PH?

    Oxalis like a neutral to slightly acidic soil- a ph of 6.0-7.0

  • Katie

    Hello there. I have had a green shamrock plant for two years now and it has always done very well, even in the window in my dorm room. However, I’ve noticed that it’s starting to look a little “sad” – even new leaves are droopy and purple, and there aren’t near as many shoots as there were in the summertime, when it was flourishing. However, there’s quite an abundance of white blooms on it, which gives me hope. I’m really attached to this plant, so I’d appreciate any insight. Thanks!

    Hi Katie
    Your shamrock may be going into a dormant stage (resting).

  • Meda

    hola feliz año, una pregunta cuando se puede ó se debe sembrar el Oxalis regnellii (treblo morado)

    Gracias

  • Dormant?
    A friend gave me her Oxalis plant before she moved to Arizona. She could not take it on the plane. It had originally been her mom’s. It bloomed right after I brought it home and I took that as a good sign, but since then the leaves have been dying off and getting fewer. Should I just let it go dormant?? Is that what it is trying to tell me?? I don’t want it to die. What should I do?

    Hi Jackie
    Your oxalis plant is most likely going dormant. Let it go and it might perk up in early spring. The shock of being moved probably didn’t help. Check the corms to see if they are firm and make sure the soil drains well when you water. Be careful not to over water esp. in winter.

  • Ashton

    Okay…I absolutely love my purple shamrock plants. I have a couple questions on care though….i live in albuquerque and in the summers here it gets pretty hot, i wanted to plant some oxalis bulbs in my front lawn in a flower bed this summer. when is a good time to do so, if this is even something that would work? Also what is the smallest size pot they should be planted in? I have a couple bulbs planted in very small like 2inch pots because they are “cute” haha. anyhow thanks for the help!

    Hi Ashton
    You can plant purple shamrocks outdoors in your flowr bed in late winter/early spring as soon as any danger of frost has passed.
    It sounds like you’re having fun planting them in pots! I would plant 3-5 in a 4 inch pot depending on how big the bulbs are to allow room for more growth. They will spread. A 6 inch pot can hold 6-9 tubers. Have fun.

  • Ashton

    Purple shamrock hardiness
    Also, if i plant the bulbs outside in a flower bed….will the bulbs freeze and die in the winter and not come back the next year or will they come back when the weather is nice…..and when is a good time for me to plant the bulbs in the flower bed?

    Hi Ashton
    Purple shamrock are not hardy. They are a native of Brazil. If you live in a frost-free area, then you can plant them outdoors in early spring. Keep in mind, that some complain that they can get invasive. If you have freezing winters, then you need to grow them in a container and bring it indoors for the winter.

  • Jane Robbins

    Pill bugs
    I have a very old Shamrock that has grown very well. From time to time it’s leaves become lighter and not very happy. In the past I have given it a “haircut” and trimmed all the leaves off. It always recovers nicely. Today after it’s “haircut” I noticed a couple of roly-poly bugs on the pot. I kept it in the sink and washed the bugs down the drain. I kept watering the plant every few minutes and managed to “flush” out about 20 of these bugs. Do you think the bugs were the problem or has it been going dormant?

    Hi Jane
    It doesn’t sound as if the roly-poly bugs are the problem. They sound like Pill bugs. They could be minimally feeding on the roots but for the most part feed on decaying organic material and will not harm the plant. Your shamrock may have been trying to going dormant at times. You don’t mention any fertilization. A houseplant fertilizer once a month when it starts to grow again will help perk up the plant.

  • Lisa

    I have a beautiful green oxalis (indoor houseplant) that I’ve had for several years and it has never gone dormant. It now seems like it is bursting out of it’s pot…the center cluster of leaves/flowers are perky and pretty, but the outside leaves are droopy. I’ve had a number of people tell me that I need to divide and re-pot, but I’m afraid of killing it! I know you’ve answered a number of questions on how to do this, but could you give me idiot-proof directions? Even after reading all of the above, I’m still confused. What is a corm? What is a tuber? What do these things look like? When I take my plant and ease it out of it’s pot and dump it on the table, then what? You said to repot when it is dormant, but my plant has never been dormant. I’ve seen, too, that the corms/tubers/whatevers need to have “eyes.” What does this mean? I am really dumb with this stuff…it is a miracle my plant has survived this long with me caring for it and I am so scared to re-pot it. Any help would be much appreciated!!

    P.S. I live in eastern PA and it is now COLD here…even though my plant is inside, should I wait till spring?

    • Shirley

      Hello Lisa, You can repot this plant! I promise, Gently dump the whole plant dirt and all on a flat newspaper covered are. Careful not to mash the top of it. SHake the dirt off of the roots and see how many extra tubers you have. Separate them gently and put into other pots at least 6 inches across and 6 to 8 inches deep. Dirt in the bottom 2/3 rds the tuber and enough dirt to cover the tops even after you’ve watered them. Add a little liquid fertilizer and the should do just fine.

  • jeffsteward

    What should I do if I put my plant away for rest period (so I can separate anmake more plants) and it blooms a large amount in my gararge?

    Hi Jeff
    Apparently, your shamrock is done resting. Bring it inside and enjoy the flowers.

  • judy tooley

    I will tell you one thing about my shamrocks. I had this one pot of
    shamrocks that I bought at walmart that is pretty healthy and when I
    pulled off the dead leaves, I accidently uprooted just one of them
    and planted it in another pot which at the time was just one leaf.
    Now this one leaf has grown into dozens full of blooms. I noticed that
    during Lent that my shamrocks bloom the most during the year. Now
    that I’m getting new windows tomorrow I’m worried that it might hurt
    my plants since it will only get up to 48 degrees. How do I keep them warm?
    judy tooley

    Hi Judy
    Put your shamrock plants in a box or cooler to keep them warm, although I think they would survive 48 degrees for a short time.

  • judy tooley

    Drooping leaves
    Now that my shamrocks have made it through the windows
    being changed. I noticed when I got home today that
    the one I started last year is drooping. It’s been
    very healthy up until now. Is there something wrong?
    I also bought a new purple shamrock with the big leaves.
    The ones that are drooping are the green ones with a
    slight purple underneath.
    judy tooley

    Hi Judy
    It could be exposure to colder temperatures. Any disrubtion in their normal environment can stress the plant causing the leaves to droop. Wait and see, it should send out new leaves.

  • James Palen

    Type of Oxalis
    Hi. I just bought a shamrock for a friend living in coastal San Diego. She’s not sure what type of care to give it and, frankly, niether am I. I’m not actually sure what variety of shamrock I bought (I was in a rush), so I’m not sure if it is oxalis or trifolium. Do you know how I can tell the difference and give some advice on how to have her start caring for it, depending on which one it is. The plant had its little white flowers and an abundance of green leaves on it already when I gave it to her and the flower definitely resembles googled pics of oxalis more than trifolium, but I’m not sure.
    James.

    Hi James
    Most likely you have the large leaved Oxalis “Lucky shamrock” variety-that’s what they sell at the stores around St. Patricks day. Trifolium has a much smaller green leaf. See above picture.

  • Karen

    Dormancy
    Hi! i bought a very small shamrock planted in a glass vase about two years age.There were only four stalks them and I thought it would never get bushy. Now it is starting to get fuller but not as much as hoped. Is this a very busy plant or sparse. It does have very pretty white flowers on it.I have noticed it doesnt seem to go dormant as its supposed to. Is it a full bushy plant normally and does it have to go dormant?

    Hi Karen
    Oxalis (shamrock) will spread as the corms grow and divide. I can get full provided it has the right growing conditions. They don’t always go dormant, some plants will continue to grow for years without going dormant. Now that spring is here give it a 1/2 dose of houseplant fertilizer and see if that will help stimulate more growth.

  • Maggie

    I purchased 2 oxalis; one from a plant store (purple), one from a grocery store (green). The one from the grocery store was at first quite bushy with flowers. The one from the plant store was not as bushy. Both had flowers. The plant shop told me to “deadhead” the flowers to keep them blooming. I did and now neither has flowers. The store purchase has thinned out a lot, The plant store one, not as much. Does “deadheading” mean pulling the entire stem out (which I copied from the plant store lady)? Or should I just let the stems die and drop off at their own pace?

    I bought them because I read in a magazine that they are easy to care for, but this does not seem to be the case. Will the purple one continue to grow purple leaves? Some of the newer sprouts seem to be more greenish in color.

    Hi Maggie
    When you deadhead your Oxalis (Shamrock) I pull out the whole stem and flower, but you can pinch of just the flower head. It really won’t make to much difference. They usually dry up and then I pull them off. The purple oxalis probably needs a little more light to produce more purple leaves-lower light will give it greenish leaves. In your case, the younger leaves can be more greenish and as they mature get the purple coloration. Shamrock are easy to grow once they acclimate to the new environment. Make sure you don’t over water.

  • Katie

    I got a Triangularis plant a bit over a year ago. It used to be pretty thick and would frequently produce flowers, but it always had some issues with its leaves being brown and dry around the edges. It started dying more and more, then i left it with my mom when I moved. She didn’t water it much and it didn’t get a ton of light and i think it went dormant. When i got it again, it didn’t look good at all, but i figured it would be ready to come out of dormancy and started watering it. It looked like it was starting to get going again and had a number of little sprouts, but then it kind of gave up. Then nothing for about a month. Finally, I decided to give up. But when I was throwing it out, I saw that the tuber things are still firm and look healthy aside from a lack of roots. It’s spring now, should I try to let them go dormant in a closet or something, or repot them now and see if it does anything? They’re currently out of the soil.

    Hi Katie
    Repot the tubers in good potting soil mix and keep it slightly moist in semi-shade. Once you see new leaves emerge, start to water and place in a sunny window.

  • Kirsty C

    Folded leaves
    Hi,
    I am worried about my Oxalis – it has just been through a dormant period in which we kept it dry and let it rest; now it has started to grow again and has quite a lot of leaves and flowers. The plant looks healthy and the leaves have a good colour, but they are not opening up in the light and I don’t know why. Please help! I am not really sure how to look after the plant properly and feel I am just muddling through.

    Hi Kirsty
    We all muddle through when it comes to gardening. The leaves are light sensitive and fold up on cloudy days and at night (nyctinstic movements). Perhaps they are not getting enough light.

  • Claire

    transplant shock
    Hi,
    I just repotted my Oxalis plant (my first time repotting anything) and not only are all the leaves drooping but the stems as well, and the corms seem to be at odd angles. I noticed that I had broken a few of the stems too in my clumsy attempt to move it to a slightly bigger pot. Is this just transplant shock or have I killed it? I would really appreciate any advice you can give me, because I am at a total loss.

    Hi Claire
    Your plant is suffering from transplant shock. A better time to repot is when it is dormant or not growing very much (winter). Keep it in a shaded area and be careful not to overwater it. Avoid soggy soil. It should perk up in a week or so.

  • Katie

    Thanks for the response. You’ve been keeping up since 2005! Anyway, I repotted and I’ll hope for the best. Thanks again!

    The maiden voyage of Hortchat.com started in 2004. Its been a fun journey and a great learning experience. Thanks!

  • Rupert

    Hello,

    I bought a purple Oxalis last year and it flowered well. It was a hard winter (Scotland) and now there is no sign of it (outside). By this time (end of May) should it be showing or is it dead?

    Hi Rupert
    There should be some sign of life by now. Perhaps its waiting for the soil to warm up.

  • judy tooley

    You know something Rupert? I live in the part of the
    United States where temps get to just above zero like
    last winter. I never had that problem since mine are
    inside as houseplants. We have some kind of wild
    shamrocks that grow here. They have very tiny leaves
    and are a pale and almost yellow color. Just give
    your purple shamrocks time. If they don’t come up,
    just look for some more.
    judy tooley

  • Meg

    I bought purple oxalis with less than 10 leaves, new leaves are forming,but also I see lots of flower buds. Do I need to pinch the flowerheads for the plant to establish first?

    Hi Meg
    Enjoy the flowers, I don’t think pinching them off will make a difference in the plants adjustment.

  • davejohnson

    hi, i have a clover of some kind, but unsure what type, but it has very very long stalks. i read somewhere this meant that it was going to die. some of the leaves have turned yellow, so i’ve removed them. i’ve also just repotted it, so might not have helped it. what do you think is best to do? i hear other people commenting that their’s is multiplying and bushy, what do i need to do so that mine does this, as at the minute it is going up a lot but no signs of any new stalks growing? it is sat in my window, but my flat doesn’t get much sun so its never in direct sunlight. thanks.

    Hi Dave
    A tall & lanky plant indicates that it needs more light or temperatures are too warm.
    It may be a lack of sun that is keeping your shamrock from growing well. They do like bright filtered light. Have you fertilized the plant during the growing season?The plant itself may be going dormant, as some varieties do, and will wake up in 1-3 months.

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