Oxalis triangularisFalse Shamrock

By Kathryn Stephens

BackgroundThe false shamrock is a perennial plant that is natively found in Brazil. It is a popular pot plant and it is also called a love plant or a purple shamrock. It has purple leaves with light pink flowers.

Reproductive StrategyFalse Shamrock reproduces with bulbs, swollen leaves with stored food. They go through dormancy on a regular basis and at the end of this period, bulbs can be replanted and they will grow into new false shamrocks.

Limiting Factor RequirementThe false shamrock needs a few hours of sun a day, but too much more can damage the leaves. It prefers cooler environments and has short, compact, roots.

Care RequirementsThe false shamrock does not require much water, and can go months without it. It needs a cooler environment, but a few hours of sunlight everyday. Ff the temperature is above 80℉ for a prolonged period of time, it will take on an aged look.

The fake shamrock folds up its leaves at night and after contact.