Also known as Butterfly Plant · Butterfly Sorrel · Fairy Wings
Safety note: This plant may be toxic to humans and pets. See toxicity details.
Oxalis triangularis, or False Shamrock, is an ornamental herb known for its deep purple, triangular leaves that fold at night. It produces delicate white to pink flowers
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Bright indirect light. Avoid direct sun.
60% intensity
Keep soil consistently moist, allowing top 2-3 cm to dry between waterings. Reduce in dormancy.
70% intensity
Well-draining, rich potting mix.
50% intensity
Prefers stable temperatures between 15-27 °C. Protect from cold drafts.
60% intensity
House Plant, Indoor, Outdoor, Greenhouse
50% intensity
Feed every 2-4 weeks during active growth with diluted liquid fertilizer.
50% intensity
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | Yes 5/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | Yes 5/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
Contains soluble oxalates, which can cause oral irritation, vomiting, diarrhea, and kidney damage if ingested in significant amounts by pets or humans.
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water thoroughly when the top 2-3 cm of soil feels dry, ensuring good drainage. Reduce frequency in winter or during dormancy, allowing the soil to dry out more. Avoid overwatering, which can lead to bulb rot.
Consistent moisture is key during active growth to support its vibrant foliage.
Easily propagated by dividing the rhizomatous bulbs (corms) during repotting, typically in spring. Gently separate the small corms and plant them in fresh, well-draining potting mix.
Ensure each division has at least one growth point. They root readily and grow quickly.
Repot every 1-2 years in spring, or when the plant becomes root-bound. Choose a pot only slightly larger than the previous one to avoid excess moisture retention.
This is also an ideal time to divide the corms for propagation or to refresh the soil, providing new nutrients.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of False Shamrock (Oxalis triangularis)
Where False Shamrock (Oxalis triangularis) is found
Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Oxalidales |
| Family | Oxalidaceae |
| Genus | Oxalis |
| Species | Oxalis triangularis |
Similar in genus Oxalis
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
