Guide to growing Shamrock - Oxalis

The Oxalis genus includes the Shamrock and Sorrel.

They range in height from 5cm to 30cm; this makes them ideal for growing in rock gardens or close to the edges of crazy of paving.

Oxalis may flower towards the end of spring or in the summer (species dependent) and carry cup shaped pink or white flowers.

How to grow Shamrock

Shamrock, and other Oxalis members can be grown from either roots or seeds. If growing from roots then bury the tubers about 4 to 5cm deep in the autumn. The seeds should be sown using fresh seed; this normally is produced at the end of summer. The seeds of shamrock should be lightly covered once sown. Oxalis species like to grow in sunny areas of the garden and have a preference for an acidic soil (pH 4 to 5) soil that has good drainage.

If first growing shamrock indoors the seeds will take about two to eight weeks to germinate at 12 to 21 degrees centigrade. The young seedlings should be transplanted into the garden at about 10cm (small species) to 40cm (large varieties) apart in mid spring, well after the last chance of a frost.

Caring for Shamrock

If you require more shamrock plants then they can be propagated by dividing the tubers in the autumn. Shamrock pretty much look after themselves and require no special attention when growing in the garden; they thrive in dry soils, so only water them in exceedingly dry conditions.