St. Patricks Day March 17 2008

There are literally hundreds of types of oxalis and several of them make very nice indoor blooming plants. The variety most commonly grown as shamrocks for St. Patrick's Day is Oxalis acetosella. It is a three-leaf clover with pure white blooms and a compact growth habit. Another wonderful variety for indoors is Oxalis deppei with red blooms and quartered leaves that have a dark zone near the center of each leaf. There is a variety that has huge maroon leaves and pink blooms and another with delicate yellow flowers. Most oxalis have 3 or 4 divisions to the leaf, but they can have up to 9 parts.

What are the light requirements for shamrocks?
All oxalis need lots of light to grow and bloom well. This can even be full afternoon sun in the winter time, but not in the summer. If you are using artificial light, try to provide at least 12 hours each day.

How much water do they need?
They need to be kept just barely damp. Whenever possible, let them dry slightly between waterings.

Do they have any special temperature requirements?
Shamrocks and other oxalis prefer cool temperatures, especially while in bloom. Keep them in a cool room at night (between 50-65º) and avoid letting them get any warmer than 70-75º during the day. Warmer temperatures will encourage them to go dormant earlier.


Do shamrocks need much humidity?
They do fine with average household humidity. Mist occasionally or place them on a humidity tray.