Purple Shamrock: Striking Foliage and Easy Blooms

Botanical Name: Oxalis regnellii

Triangular purple leaves fold along the vein like butterflies above slender stems. Soft-pink, 5-petaled flowers rise above the foliage in spring/summer. 'Triangularis' is a popular variety. Also called False Shamrock. One of the easiest flowering houseplants — just keep moist and shaded.

Care Tips

Dormancy Is Normal

If soil dries out or it gets hot direct sun, it may go dormant (leaves die back). Don't panic — cut off all leaves, and it returns in weeks.

Divide or Repot Anytime

Use drainage holes to prevent soggy soil.

Indoors or Out

Grow indoors year-round, or summer on shady patio. Outdoors in frost-free zones it spreads fast and can be invasive.

Quick Reference: Purple Shamrock Care

• Origin: Brazil
• Height: 6–12 in (15–30 cm)
• Light: Bright indirect for best leaf color
• Water: Let surface dry between waterings
• Humidity: Average indoor
• Temperature: Cool preferred, especially in bloom: 55–65°F (13–18°C) nights / not above 75°F (24°C) days
• Soil: Any good potting mix
• Fertilizer: Balanced liquid every 2 weeks during growth, diluted by half. When blooming stops, every other month.
• Propagation: Divide tuberous roots into smaller clumps, pot separately