Pot size: 12cm x Plant height: 30cm approx
Fits a pot with a 13cm - 15cm diameter.
*Pot in image not included in price
About
The beautiful oxalis are a favourite amongst many for their striking deep purple foliage, delicate lilac flowers (both the foliage and flower are edible), and because their leaves draw upwards at night and open during the day giving the illusion of a butterfly opening and closing its wings. They can be kept as both an indoor or outdoor plant.
Light: Bright but indirect
Although Oxalis can withstand direct sunlight in the garden, indoors it's best to house them in a spot with bright but indirect light. If your Oxalis isn't getting enough light it will likely become leggy and sparse, a good indicator that it needs to be moved.
Water: Moderate to frequent
Over summer you should water your Oxalis once the top inch of soil has dried out. For the rest of the year you can wait for at least half the pot of soil to dry, as Oxalis are better suited to being slightly underwatered than being left too damp, which could cause the bulbs to rot. If left too long between waterings the stems will hang low over the edge of the pot, but will jump right back up when given a good soaking.
Humidity: Low
Although native to Brazil, Oxalis are perfectly suited to the average humidity levels found in the home and won't need misting.
Note:
Oxalis are a bulb so will die back over winter when planted outdoors. It is less likely to die back when kept as a houseplant, although it will usually half in size as it goes dormant. If it does die back you should either leave the bulbs in the soil until Spring (make sure to not water during this time as this could rot the bulbs) and wait for regrowth, or you can remove the bulbs and allow to dry for a week or so before storing them somewhere cool and dark until you can plant them outdoors.
Although edible to humans (It’s a bitter citrusy flavour goes nicely on salads and the purple leaves look amazing mixed through!), keep away from curious pets who love a nibble as they are toxic to animals.
If you choose to keep this plant outdoors, they are known to spread quickly. If you don’t mind them taking over a little feel free to pot directly into the ground, otherwise plant them in a pot to keep them contained.