Oxalis debilis

Oxalis debilis

large-flowered pink-sorrel

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Taxonomy

Common Names

large-flowered pink-sorrelpink woodsorrelshamrock

Context

nativeRegion

South America (notably Brazil and Argentina), now naturalized widely in subtropical and tropical regions.

usdaZones

8-11 (can be grown as an annual or houseplant in cooler zones).

companionPlants

Impatiens, Begonia, Ferns

culturalUses

Ornamental groundcover; sometimes grown for edible leaves in small quantities, though consumption is limited due to oxalic acid content.

Care

LightPrefers bright, indirect light but can tolerate partial shade.

WateringModerate watering; allow topsoil to dry slightly between waterings. Avoid prolonged drought or soggy soil.

SoilWell-draining, loamy or sandy soil. Tolerates slightly acidic to neutral pH.

FertilizerFeed lightly with a balanced liquid fertilizer monthly during the growing season.

HumidityAverage household humidity is sufficient; avoid excessive dryness.

TemperaturePrefers 15-25°C (59-77°F); sensitive to frost.

HabitHerbaceous perennial, often forming low, spreading clumps.

Mature Size10-20 cm tall, spreads up to 30 cm wide.

Growth RateFast growing under favorable conditions.

BloomingBlooms in spring and summer; small pink to lilac flowers.

DormancyMay go dormant in winter or dry periods, with foliage dying back.

MethodsBulb division, Seed

DifficultyEasy

Best SeasonSpring or early summer for bulb division; late spring for sowing seed.

PruningRemove spent flowers and yellowing foliage to encourage new growth.

RepottingRepot every 1-2 years or when overcrowded.

Pests & DiseasesGenerally pest-free; may rarely attract aphids or suffer from bulb rot in overly wet soil.

ToxicityMildly toxic if ingested in large quantities due to oxalates; keep away from pets and children.

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