Oxalis ecuadorensis Plant Care

Oxalis ecuadorensis (Oxalis ecuadorensis) belongs to the Oxalidaceae family within the Oxalis genus. Oxalis ecuadorensis is native to Ecuador.

Oxalis ecuadorensis displays a low rosette, spreading growth habit, reaching up to 0.5 ft tall with a spread of approximately 1 ft. Oxalis ecuadorensis produces small, funnel-shaped flowers in various colors like pink, white, or yellow.

Leaf size: approximately 1.5 inches.

Water a young or newly planted Oxalis ecuadorensis every 4–7 days, soaking the whole root zone, until it is established — usually one to two growing seasons. Established shrubs mainly need water during long dry spells. In a container, water whenever the top few centimetres of soil are dry.

Oxalis ecuadorensis thrives in bright indirect light. Avoid placing Oxalis ecuadorensis in direct, harsh sunlight for extended periods, as this can scorch the foliage.

Oxalis ecuadorensis tolerates temperatures of 60–75°F. Oxalis ecuadorensis prefers humidity levels of 40–60%.

Well-draining, slightly acidic soil mix with added organic matter like compost or peat moss. Good drainage is essential for Oxalis ecuadorensis to prevent waterlogging, which leads to root rot and fungal issues.

Feed Oxalis ecuadorensis every 6 months during the growing season with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer at the rate on the label. Established shrubs in good soil often need little extra feeding, so let weak growth or pale foliage guide you.

Stop feeding by late summer so new growth can harden before winter.

The PlantoScan app can remind you when to water and when to fertilize each plant.

Choose a spot with bright indirect light and well-draining, slightly acidic soil mix with added organic matter like compost or peat moss. Avoid low spots where water collects after rain.

Oxalis ecuadorensis is suited to USDA Zone 13a.

Plant container-grown or balled-and-burlapped shrubs in spring or early autumn, setting the root flare at soil level, and water well after planting.

Oxalis ecuadorensis can spread to about 1 ft (0.3 m) and reach about 1 ft (0 m) tall. Space plants about 1 ft (0.3 m) apart so mature crowns don't crowd each other, and plant at least half that distance from buildings, fences and paths.

Planning a row or hedge? Try the plant spacing calculator.

Prune Oxalis ecuadorensis while it is dormant in late winter: first remove dead, damaged and crossing branches, then thin lightly for shape.

If it flowers in spring, prune right after flowering instead so you don't remove next year's buds. Never take off more than about a quarter of the shrub in one year.

Oxalis ecuadorensis is frost-tender (hardy to USDA zone 13). In colder areas grow it in a container and move it to a bright, frost-free place before the first frost.

Oxalis ecuadorensis can be propagated through division, seeds, bulbils. Similar propagation techniques also apply to false shamrock plant care, which shares the same genus.

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Oxalis ecuadorensis is susceptible to aphids, spider mites, whiteflies. Inspect the foliage regularly, especially along leaf undersides and stems. Treat infestations promptly with insecticidal soap or neem oil to prevent spread.

Yellow leaves, brown tips or drooping? See common plant problems and how to fix them.

Oxalis ecuadorensis grows outdoors in USDA Zone 13a. It survives winters down to planting zone 13a. Oxalis ecuadorensis is native to Ecuador. In cooler regions, grow Oxalis ecuadorensis as a houseplant or bring it indoors before the first frost.