Oxalis Triangularis - Purple Shamrock Butterfly Plant (Corm)

Plant Type: Corm (Bulb) | Pot Included | Free Delivery

About Oxalis Triangularis (Purple Shamrock)

Oxalis Triangularis, commonly known as Purple Shamrock or Butterfly Plant, is a stunning and unique houseplant that's sure to captivate with its vibrant purple, triangular leaves and delicate pink or white flowers. The leaves fold up at night like butterfly wings and open again in the morning, creating a mesmerizing daily display that never gets old!

This easy-care plant grows from corms (bulbs) and features deep purple, almost burgundy foliage that creates a dramatic contrast in any plant collection. The shamrock-shaped leaves and charming flowers make it perfect for St. Patrick's Day celebrations, but its beauty is worth enjoying year-round!

Why Choose Oxalis Triangularis?

• Stunning deep purple triangular leaves
• Leaves fold up at night like butterfly wings - fascinating to watch!
• Delicate pink or white flowers
• Easy care and beginner-friendly
• Grows from corms - can go dormant and regrow
• Perfect for St. Patrick's Day and year-round beauty

Care Instructions

Light: Thrives in bright, indirect light. The purple coloration is most vibrant with adequate light. Can tolerate some direct morning sun but avoid harsh afternoon sunlight. Medium light is acceptable but colors may be less intense and flowering reduced.

Water: Water when the top 2-3 cm of soil feels dry to the touch. Keep soil consistently moist during active growth but not waterlogged. Reduce watering significantly during dormancy. Ensure excellent drainage to prevent corm rot.

Humidity: Tolerates average household humidity (40-50%). Not particularly fussy about humidity levels, making it very adaptable to typical indoor conditions.

Temperature: Prefers moderate temperatures between 15-24°C. Can tolerate slightly cooler temperatures. Protect from extreme heat and cold.

Soil: Use well-draining potting mix. A standard houseplant mix with added perlite works well. Good drainage is essential for healthy corms.

Fertilizer: Feed every 2-3 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer) with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength. Stop feeding during dormancy.

Dormancy: Oxalis may go dormant, losing all its leaves. This is natural! Reduce watering to minimal and stop fertilizing. Store in a cool, dry place. After 2-3 months, resume watering and the plant will regrow from the corms.

Repotting: Repot every 1-2 years in spring. Corms multiply over time, so you can divide them when repotting to create new plants.

The Butterfly Effect

One of the most fascinating features of Oxalis Triangularis:

• Leaves fold up at night (nyctinasty) like sleeping butterflies
• Opens again in the morning with light exposure
• Also folds up on cloudy days or when touched
• This daily movement is mesmerizing to watch!
• A living, moving work of art in your home

Propagation

Propagate by dividing corms during repotting. Gently separate the small corms (bulblets) from the main corm and plant in fresh potting mix. Keep moist until new growth appears. Each corm will produce a new plant!

Common Issues & Solutions

• Leaves not opening: Insufficient light. Move to brighter location.
• Fading purple color: Too little light. Increase light exposure for more vibrant coloration.
• Yellowing leaves: Overwatering or natural dormancy approaching. Check soil moisture and adjust watering.
• Plant dying back completely: Likely entering dormancy - this is natural! Reduce watering and wait for regrowth.
• Leggy growth: Insufficient light. Move to brighter location and prune leggy stems.
• No flowers: Insufficient light or nutrients. Increase light and fertilize regularly during growing season.
• Pests: Generally pest-resistant, but watch for aphids and spider mites. Treat with insecticidal soap.

Care Tips

• Watch the leaves fold and unfold - it's magical!
• Don't panic if the plant goes dormant - it will come back!
• Brighter light = more vibrant purple color
• Deadhead spent flowers to encourage more blooms
• Corms multiply over time - divide to share with friends
• Perfect for time-lapse photography of leaf movement

Toxicity Warning

Important: Oxalis Triangularis contains oxalic acid and is toxic to pets and humans if ingested in large quantities. Can cause stomach upset and irritation. Keep out of reach of children and pets.

Perfect For

• Beginner plant parents
• Desks and windowsills
• St. Patrick's Day celebrations
• Adding purple color to plant collections
• Teaching children about plant movements
• Low-maintenance plant collections
• Gifts for plant lovers

Bring magic and movement to your space with the enchanting Oxalis Triangularis - a purple beauty that dances with the light!