False Shamrock (Oxalis regnelli)

False Shamrock

Oxalis regnelli

Heart-shaped leaves fold like shy palms at dusk, a whimsical indoor favorite. Herbaceous perennial; common name: False Shamrock.

Partial sun
1–2/week
Beginner
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Bright indirect light; avoid direct midday sun which can scorch leaflets
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Watering Water when the top 2 cm of soil feels dry; avoid overwatering to prevent bulb rot
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Temperature Thrives in 15–22°C; protect from frost and temperatures below 10°C
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Characteristics

  • Leaf: Triangular, heart-shaped leaflets (3 per leaf) that fold at night or in intense bright sun
  • Flower: Small, star-shaped pale pink or white blooms on thin, upright stems
  • Stem: Slender, green flowering stems emerging from underground bulbs
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Care Guide

Watering

Keep soil evenly moist but not waterlogged

Fertilization

Diluted balanced feed every 2 weeks. Avoid over-fertilizing to prevent leaf burn; stop feeding in autumn and winter

Banana peel tea:Soak dried banana peels in water for 3 days; dilute 1:20 with water for root drenching to support healthy foliage and blooms
Pruning
  • Remove spent flower stems at the base to encourage new bloom production
  • Trim yellowing or damaged leaves to maintain a tidy clump
  • Dig up and divide overcrowded bulbs in early spring to promote healthy growth
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA: Toxic; contains soluble calcium oxalate crystals that irritate the oral cavity and digestive tract

Humans: Contains soluble calcium oxalates; ingestion may cause mild oral irritation in large quantities

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: Associated with good fortune due to its shamrock-like leaf structure

Usage: Indoor ornamental foliage plant; occasional outdoor ground cover in frost-free regions