Oxalis plants bring luck, add charm, and create visual interest in your indoor spaces. You’ll discover these fascinating plants come in an array of colors, from deep purple shamrocks to copper-toned varieties that sparkle in filtered light. While most people know the common green shamrock, there’s an entire world of unique Oxalis species waiting to transform your windowsills and shelves into miniature gardens of fortune.
Contents
- 1 1. Purple Shamrock Blooms Indoors
- 2 2. Wood Sorrel Grows Easily
- 3 3. Iron Cross Oxalis Thrives
- 4 4. White Crystal Oxalis Sparkles
- 5 5. Reddish Shamrock Widens Gracefully
- 6 6. Yellow Wood Sorrel Spreads
- 7 7. Triangular Oxalis Blooms Brightly
- 8 8. Pink Butterfly Oxalis Flourishes
- 9 9. Copper Shamrock Blooms Copiously
- 10 10. Green Carpet Oxalis Spreads
- 11 11. Silver Oxalis Shimmers Naturally
- 12 12. Golden Irish Shamrock Blooms
- 13 13. Black Pearl Oxalis Blooms
- 14 14. Fire Fern Oxalis Glows
- 15 15. Sweet Clover Oxalis Dances
1. Purple Shamrock Blooms Indoors
Purple shamrock (Oxalis triangularis) produces delicate, butterfly-like flowers that bloom in shades of pale pink to lavender, creating a striking contrast against its deep purple foliage. These small, tubular blooms appear in clusters above the leaves and can flower continuously for several months when grown in ideal conditions. Each flower opens during daylight hours and closes at night or on cloudy days, adding an interesting dynamic element to indoor displays.
- Light: Bright indirect light to partial shade; morning sun is beneficial but protect from harsh afternoon rays
- Water: Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; allow top inch of soil to dry between waterings
- Soil: Well-draining potting mix rich in organic matter
- Temperature: 60-75°F (15-24°C)
- Humidity: Average household humidity (40-50%)
- Fertilizer: Feed monthly with balanced liquid fertilizer during growing season
- Container: Pot with drainage holes to prevent root rot
- Dormancy: Reduce watering when plant shows signs of dormancy, typically late summer or fall
2. Wood Sorrel Grows Easily
Wood sorrel, also known as Oxalis, is one of the easiest indoor plants to grow and maintain, making it a popular choice for both novice and experienced gardeners. This resilient plant spreads through underground rhizomes and produces delicate, clover-like foliage that opens during the day and closes at night. Its vigorous growth habit allows it to quickly fill containers and create lush displays, while its adaptable nature means it can thrive in various indoor environments with minimal care requirements.
- Light: Bright indirect sunlight; can tolerate some direct morning sun but avoid harsh afternoon light
- Water: Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; water when top inch of soil feels dry
- Soil: Well-draining potting mix rich in organic matter
- Temperature: 60-75°F (15-24°C)
- Humidity: Average household humidity levels (40-50%)
- Fertilizer: Feed monthly during growing season with balanced houseplant fertilizer
- Container: Any pot with drainage holes; prefers slightly crowded conditions
- pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (6.0-7.0)
3. Iron Cross Oxalis Thrives
Iron Cross Oxalis (Oxalis tetraphylla) is a striking houseplant known for its distinctive dark purple marking in the center of four heart-shaped green leaves, creating a cross-like pattern. This low-growing perennial reaches heights of 6-12 inches and produces pink to red flowers during its blooming period. The plant’s unique foliage pattern and reliable growth habits make it a popular choice for indoor cultivation, with leaves that fold up at night and reopen in daylight.
- Light: Bright indirect sunlight; can tolerate some direct morning sun
- Water: Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; reduce watering during dormancy
- Soil: Well-draining potting mix rich in organic matter
- Temperature: 60-75°F (15-24°C)
- Humidity: Average household humidity levels
- Fertilizer: Feed monthly with balanced liquid fertilizer during growing season
- Container: Pot with drainage holes to prevent root rot
- Dormancy: Allow natural dormancy period in late summer or fall
- pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (6.0-7.0)
4. White Crystal Oxalis Sparkles
White Crystal Oxalis Sparkles is a charming variety of Oxalis that features delicate, triangular-shaped leaves in a shimmering silvery-white color with green edges. The foliage creates a dazzling display that resembles scattered crystals, especially when light hits the leaves. This compact plant produces small white flowers that bloom periodically throughout its growing season, adding to its ornamental appeal.
- Light: Bright indirect sunlight; can tolerate partial shade but avoids direct sun
- Water: Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; reduce watering during dormancy
- Soil: Well-draining potting mix rich in organic matter
- Temperature: 60-75°F (15-24°C)
- Humidity: Average room humidity is sufficient
- Fertilizer: Feed monthly with balanced liquid fertilizer during growing season
- Container: Pot with drainage holes to prevent root rot
- Soil pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (6.0-7.0)
5. Reddish Shamrock Widens Gracefully
The Reddish Shamrock (Oxalis regnellii) variety displays deep burgundy to purple-red foliage that spreads elegantly in a fan-like pattern. Its triangular leaves unfold from delicate stems, creating a graceful mounding habit that can reach 8-12 inches in width. The plant produces dainty white flowers that contrast beautifully against the rich-colored foliage, making it an attractive indoor specimen that adds both color and texture to any space.
- Light: Bright indirect sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun
- Water: Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; allow top inch to dry between waterings
- Soil: Well-draining potting mix rich in organic matter
- Temperature: 60-75°F (15-24°C)
- Humidity: Average household humidity (40-50%)
- Fertilizer: Feed monthly with balanced liquid fertilizer during growing season
- Container: Pot with drainage holes to prevent root rot
- Winter care: Reduce watering when plant enters dormancy
6. Yellow Wood Sorrel Spreads
Yellow wood sorrel (Oxalis stricta) is a fast-spreading plant that can quickly colonize indoor spaces through its vigorous root system and self-seeding capabilities. While some consider it a weed in outdoor gardens, this plant’s spreading nature can be controlled when grown indoors in containers. The plant produces delicate yellow flowers and clover-like foliage that folds up at night, making it an interesting addition to indoor spaces despite its invasive tendencies.
- Light: Bright, indirect sunlight; can tolerate partial shade
- Water: Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; water when top inch of soil feels dry
- Soil: Well-draining potting mix with organic matter
- Temperature: 60-75°F (15-24°C)
- Humidity: Average household humidity levels (40-50%)
- Container: Use containers with drainage holes to prevent root rot
- Pruning: Remove spent flowers and yellowing leaves to control spread
- Fertilizer: Feed monthly during growing season with balanced, water-soluble fertilizer
7. Triangular Oxalis Blooms Brightly
The triangular oxalis (Oxalis triangularis) stands out for its striking purple-colored leaves and delicate pink or white flowers that bloom throughout the growing season. Each leaf consists of three triangle-shaped leaflets that fold downward at night and open again during daylight hours, creating an eye-catching display. The flowers appear in clusters above the foliage on thin stems, adding a whimsical touch to this decorative houseplant.
- Light: Bright, indirect sunlight; can tolerate some direct morning sun but protect from harsh afternoon light
- Water: Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; water when top inch of soil feels dry
- Soil: Well-draining, fertile potting mix rich in organic matter
- Temperature: 60-75°F (15-24°C)
- Humidity: Average household humidity levels are sufficient
- Fertilizer: Feed monthly during growing season with balanced, water-soluble fertilizer
- Container: Pot with drainage holes to prevent root rot
8. Pink Butterfly Oxalis Flourishes
Pink Butterfly Oxalis (Oxalis adenophylla) is a charming indoor plant known for its delicate pink flowers and butterfly-shaped foliage. This variety produces clusters of pale pink blooms that rise above clover-like leaves, creating an enchanting display when in full bloom. The plant goes through periods of active growth and dormancy, typically flowering in spring and summer while retreating during winter months.
- Light: Bright indirect sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun
- Water: Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; reduce watering during dormancy
- Soil: Well-draining potting mix rich in organic matter
- Temperature: 60-75°F (15-24°C)
- Humidity: Average household humidity levels
- Fertilizer: Feed monthly with balanced liquid fertilizer during growing season
- Container: Pot with drainage holes
- pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (6.0-7.0)
9. Copper Shamrock Blooms Copiously
The Copper Shamrock (Oxalis vulcanicola) produces abundant, delicate yellow flowers that contrast beautifully with its rich copper-bronze foliage. This variety is known for its particularly prolific blooming habit, often flowering continuously throughout the growing season when conditions are favorable. The small, buttercup-like blossoms appear in clusters above the triangular leaflets, creating an eye-catching display that makes it a popular choice for indoor cultivation.
- Light: Bright indirect light; can tolerate some direct morning sun
- Water: Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; reduce watering during dormancy
- Soil: Well-draining potting mix rich in organic matter
- Temperature: 60-75°F (15-24°C)
- Humidity: Average household humidity levels (40-50%)
- Fertilizer: Feed monthly with balanced liquid fertilizer during growing season
- Container: Pot with drainage holes to prevent root rot
- pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (6.0-7.0)
10. Green Carpet Oxalis Spreads
Green Carpet Oxalis (Oxalis magellanica) is a low-growing, spreading variety that creates a dense mat of delicate green foliage. The plant features tiny clover-like leaves and produces small white flowers when in bloom. This creeping oxalis variety spreads through underground runners, making it an excellent choice for indoor container gardens where it can cascade over edges or create a lush groundcover effect.
- Light: Bright, indirect sunlight; can tolerate partial shade
- Water: Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; allow top inch to dry between waterings
- Soil: Well-draining, fertile potting mix with added organic matter
- Temperature: 60-75°F (15-24°C)
- Humidity: Average indoor humidity levels (40-50%)
- Fertilizer: Light feeding with balanced liquid fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during growing season
- Container: Shallow containers with drainage holes
- pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (6.0-7.0)
11. Silver Oxalis Shimmers Naturally
Silver Oxalis (Oxalis adenophylla) creates a mesmerizing display with its delicate, metallic-looking foliage that naturally reflects light, giving it a shimmering appearance. The plant produces clusters of silvery-green leaves shaped like butterfly wings, which fold up at night and open during the day. This unique coloring and movement pattern makes it an eye-catching houseplant that adds a touch of ethereal beauty to indoor spaces.
- Light: Bright, indirect sunlight; can tolerate some direct morning sun
- Water: Moderate watering when top inch of soil feels dry; reduce watering during dormancy
- Soil: Well-draining potting mix with added perlite
- Humidity: Average household humidity (40-50%)
- Temperature: 60-75°F (15-24°C)
- Fertilizer: Light feeding with balanced fertilizer during growing season
- Container: Pot with drainage holes to prevent root rot
- Growing Season: Active growth in spring and summer; may go dormant in winter
12. Golden Irish Shamrock Blooms
The Golden Irish Shamrock (Oxalis vulcanicola ‘Irish Gold’) produces delicate, trumpet-shaped yellow blooms that emerge above clover-like golden-chartreuse foliage. These cheerful flowers appear throughout the growing season, particularly in spring and summer, creating a striking contrast against the plant’s distinctive triangular leaves. While small individually, the blooms appear in clusters and can provide continuous color when properly maintained.
- Light: Bright, indirect sunlight; can tolerate some direct morning sun but protect from harsh afternoon rays
- Water: Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; allow top inch of soil to dry between waterings
- Soil: Well-draining potting mix rich in organic matter
- Humidity: Average household humidity levels (40-50%)
- Temperature: 60-75°F (15-24°C)
- Fertilizer: Feed monthly during growing season with balanced, water-soluble fertilizer
- Growing Medium pH: 6.0-7.0
13. Black Pearl Oxalis Blooms
Black Pearl Oxalis produces delicate, star-shaped white flowers that emerge from dark purple-black foliage, creating a striking contrast. These small blooms appear sporadically throughout the growing season, typically in spring and summer, and stand out beautifully against the plant’s distinctive triangular leaves. Each flower has five petals and grows on thin stems that rise slightly above the foliage.
- Light: Bright indirect light; can tolerate some direct morning sun but should be protected from harsh afternoon rays
- Water: Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; water when top inch of soil feels dry
- Soil: Well-draining potting mix rich in organic matter
- Humidity: Average household humidity levels (40-50%)
- Temperature: 60-75°F (15-24°C)
- Fertilizer: Feed monthly during growing season with balanced, water-soluble fertilizer
- Dormancy: May go dormant in winter; reduce watering during this period
14. Fire Fern Oxalis Glows
Fire Fern Oxalis (Oxalis hedysaroides ‘Rubra’) features striking burgundy-purple foliage that appears to glow when backlit, creating a dramatic display indoors. The triangular leaves fold down at night and reopen during the day, while small yellow flowers occasionally bloom throughout the growing season. This compact variety grows in a mounding habit and adds rich color contrast to indoor plant collections.
- Light: Bright indirect light; can tolerate some direct morning sun
- Water: Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; water when top inch of soil feels dry
- Soil: Well-draining potting mix rich in organic matter
- Humidity: Average household humidity levels (40-50%)
- Temperature: 65-75°F (18-24°C)
- Fertilizer: Feed monthly during growing season with balanced houseplant fertilizer
- Container: Pot with drainage holes to prevent root rot
- Growth Period: Active growth in spring and summer; may go dormant in winter
15. Sweet Clover Oxalis Dances
Sweet Clover Oxalis, also known as Oxalis regnellii, displays delicate white flowers and triangular-shaped leaves that fold up and down throughout the day in a rhythmic “dance” following light exposure. This charming movement, along with its clover-like foliage and dainty blooms, makes it an enchanting indoor plant that adds both visual interest and a touch of whimsy to any space.
- Light: Bright, indirect sunlight; can tolerate some direct morning sun but protect from harsh afternoon light
- Water: Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; reduce watering during dormancy
- Soil: Well-draining potting mix rich in organic matter
- Temperature: 60-75°F (15-24°C); protect from cold drafts
- Humidity: Average household humidity levels (40-50%)
- Fertilizer: Feed monthly during growing season with balanced liquid fertilizer
- Container: Pot with drainage holes to prevent root rot
- pH: Slightly acidic to neutral soil (6.0-7.0)