Growing Oxalis

Green Thumbs often take pride in growing plants that need pampering. I once spent time nurturing orchids. When friends marveled at those temperamental orchids, my hat size expanded. But easy-to-grow plants are just as rewarding as those that put up a fight. They make miniature gardening a pleasure.

Oxalis is easy to grow, especially when treated as a houseplant. With minimal care, it rewards the gardener with pleasing foliage color, an interesting form that changes based on light, and flowers.

A wood sorrel that grows from tiny bulbs, Oxalis sends up clover-like, heart shaped or triangular leaf triads. There are varieties with green leaves that comprise mini "shamrocks", copper-toned varieties, dark purples…. Some of my favorites have maroon foliage, often with variegation for even greater impact in miniature gardens.

Oxalis changes its form noticeably as its leaves open and close in response to levels of light. The leaves greet the light of day by becoming fully opened "shamrocks" and fold down like tiny umbrellas when the light dims. With these two different looks, Oxalis provides changing visual interest, delighting those who engage in miniature gardening.

Thinking back, there have been few times I have seen Oxalis at nurseries or in catalogs. Far from pedestrian, Oxalis is an uncommon gem—a special treat to enjoy in miniature garden displays.

Varieties grow beautifully outdoors in not-so-cold Plant Hardiness Zones. They spread, which is desirable to me, but can begin to take up too much real estate in some miniature gardens. I opt to use them as houseplants. When they are inside near a window, I can enjoy their colors and moves, and I am nothing but impressed by these miniature garden picks. Most plants used indoors are green and draw the eye to more greenery outside. But the Oxalis I have chosen adds an unexpected splash of burgundy. It is an eye-pleaser.

Now for care: Easy-going, yes… but that is not to say Oxalis needs no attention. Oxalis is expressive, and it politely makes its needs clear. Those who tend miniature gardens need not puzzle over the clues that Oxalis reveals about its health, for they are straightforward:

Wilting stems: Oxalis needs watering.Crisp leaves: The soil is too dry.Mushy bases on stems: Oxalis is regularly overwatered.Legginess: Oxalis needs more light.Lack of flowers during the expected bloom period: Oxalis needs more sunlight, a cooler location, or a little sand mixed into its soil.

Be on the lookout for these clues. But if Oxalis looks happy, do not overthink things: Maintain these plants in well draining soil, water once the soil dries out, and feed periodically with houseplant fertilizer. That is all that is needed. If this miniature garden gem begins to look all-around unhealthy, rest easy in the knowledge that bulb-based Oxalis goes through a brief dormancy but will come back with all its bounty. If dormant, leave the plant without light and water for a period of rest. Then feed, increase exposure to sunlight, and resume regular care once you begin to see new growth.

It is important that pets do not join you in admiring Oxalis. If your pets are prone to nibbling the leaves of miniature garden specimens, be sure to choose a perch that is out-of-reach to them. Oxalis is toxic to pets. With that perch providing good (indirect-to-direct) sunlight and the same warmth that humans in the home enjoy, the miniature garden display you create with Oxalis will be a show-stopper.

There is no shame in wanting to be an orchid-tamer. Challenges promote growth. Hard work is healthy. But adding Oxalis to your miniature gardening routine will free up your time to work on challenges while delighting in beauty.

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