Candy Cane Sorrel (Oxalis versicolor)

Candy Cane Sorrel: Striped Buds, Pure White Flowers

Candy Cane Sorrel (Oxalis versicolor) is a delightful, small bulbous perennial from South Africa. Its unique charm lies in the flower buds: tightly twisted, they display bold red and white stripes like a candy cane. When the sun hits them, they open to reveal pure white, five-petaled flowers with a yellow throat. The trifoliate, clover-like leaves are fresh green.

Winter-Growing Charmer

It grows in winter and spring, dormant in summer. Plant bulbs in autumn in well-drained soil, full sun to light shade. In cold climates, grow in pots and protect from hard frost. Water during growth, keep dry in summer. The candy-striped buds provide weeks of interest before opening. A conversation piece for containers and rock gardens.

Taxonomy

• Family: Oxalidaceae
• Genus: Oxalis
• Species: versicolor