Skip to content

Enjoy 20% OFF our full range until Sunday
-20%

Oxalis triangularis

purple shamrock

Often referred to as the purple shamrock, this beautiful and curious plant actually has nothing to do with Ireland—it comes from Brazil! Oxalis triangularis has stunning triangular, three-lobed leaves—each lobe like a pair of butterfly wings—in vivid purple-maroon and shades of wine-red. In summer, the leaves are accompanied by numerous small, trumpet-shaped pinkish or white blooms. These are attractive in their own right, but it’s the leaves that are the real stars of the show. Incidentally, the foliage has a photonastic response—in other words, the leaves open up during the day and close again at night!

Oxalis triangularis subsp. papilionacea may be grown to plant outdoors in summer pots, or a position at the front of the border. It is, however, a frost-tender plant: it might survive outdoors over winter in warm, sheltered gardens, but expect to give it some winter protection. Luckily, it does adapt very well to indoor conditions, and it can survive and indeed thrive, for many years as a long-lived houseplant.

Quantity

Quantity
Quantity
Carefully hand-packed in paper bags
We fund carbon removal with every order

Plant profile

How to grow

Read the full growing guide
Plant at the right time

Plant during the recommended period shown in the variety’s specifications. If you cannot plant straight away, store them somewhere cool, dry and well ventilated.

Choose a suitable position

Check whether your varieties prefer sun or shade, then choose a sheltered spot with well-drained soil. Most spring bulbs also grow well in containers.

Prepare the soil
Prepare the soil

Remove weeds and loosen compacted soil. Improve heavy ground with organic matter and horticultural grit. For containers, use peat-free multipurpose compost and ensure good drainage.

Check depth and direction

Plant at the depth recommended for each variety, as their requirements differ. Position shoots or pointed ends upwards. If the correct direction is unclear, plant them on their sides.

Allow enough space
Allow enough space

Follow the recommended spacing for each variety. Planting in clusters or informal drifts creates a natural display, but avoid placing them directly against one another.

Water and aftercare
Water and aftercare

Water after planting if the soil is dry. Keep containers lightly moist but never waterlogged. After flowering, allow foliage to yellow naturally before removing it.
Perfect for pots

Bring colour to patios, doorsteps and favourite corners.

Pollinator-friendly

Welcome bees, butterflies and other pollinators into your garden.

For indoor growing

Bring a touch of natural beauty to windowsills and favourite rooms.

Great for shade

Bring those shady corners of your garden to life.

Thrives in full sun

Choose a sunny spot and watch it flourish.

RHS Recommended

Recognised with the RHS Recommended: Award of Garden Merit for outstanding garden performance.

Perennial

Plant once and enjoy its return, year after year.

Packed in paper

We nurture a future that honours the earth.

Low maintenance

Needs little care and rewards you generously.

In good company

Varieties chosen to complement Oxalis triangularis

Explore all

In good company

Varieties chosen to complement Oxalis triangularis

Explore all
-20%
Allium azureum

Allium azureum

Regular price £3.12
Sale price £3.90
Allium azureum

Oxalis triangularis reviews

Expert care from
choice to delivery

Our horticulturalists prepare every bulb and plant with the utmost care. From selection to packing, each one receives expert attention before beginning its journey to your garden.

Better by nature

From cultivation to packaging and delivery, we are always looking for ways to lessen our environmental impact.

Growing together

Our care team of horticultural experts is on hand to support you choose and garden with confidence.

World of wonders

A collection of world-renowned flower bulbs and perennials of exceptional beauty and character.

Chosen to thrive

Every bulb and plant is sourced, selected and prepared with an expert eye for their quality and garden performance.