Understanding Dormancy in Purple Oxalis (Shamrock Plant)

A purple oxalis dwindled to two leaves and one flower. The owner read about dormancy but had never seen it in years of ownership.

It’s Dormant

Oxalis goes dormant 1–2 times per year. Stop watering entirely.

Dormancy Protocol

1. Let leaves die back naturally; do not remove until brown.
2. Place pot in a brown paper bag in a cool attached garage or closet.
3. Leave 3–4 weeks, then check for growth.
4. If no growth by 6 weeks, give a tiny bit of water every 2 weeks to prevent shriveling.
5. When shoots appear, bring into sun, water, and fertilize weekly (balanced fertilizer).

Growing Conditions (Active Phase)

• Cool air, moist soil.
• Mix: 2 parts peat, 1 part loam, 1 part sand.
• Bright indirect light.
• Weekly balanced fertilizer while growing.