Purple Shamrock
Oxalis triangularis 'Atropurpurea'
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Perennial
Height
9 inches
Width
12 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
8, 9
Water
Moderate
Humidity
Average
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
South America
Toxicity
Toxic to pets if ingested
The Story
Plant Bio
Herbaceous perennial, grown from a rhizomatous tuber, featuring distinctive trifoliate leaves composed of three triangular, deep purple leaflets. Produces delicate, five-petaled, funnel-shaped flowers. Distinguished by its exceptionally deep purple, almost black, triangular leaflets, providing striking color contrast. The leaves exhibit nyctinastic movement, folding at night and opening in daylight.
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds into well-draining soil in early spring for best germination.
- Mist cuttings lightly to maintain moisture and encourage root growth.
- Water regularly but avoid waterlogging to prevent rot.
- Fertilize monthly with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer during active growth.
- Divide mature plants in early spring to promote healthy new growth.
- Mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Pro Tip
Use bright indirect light for optimal growth and vibrant foliage color.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Provide consistent moisture during the growing season 🌱
- Place in bright, indirect sunlight for best color display
- Use well-draining soil to prevent root rot
- Divide plants every 2-3 years to maintain health
Don't
- Avoid overwatering, which can cause rot ❌
- Don’t expose to full, harsh sunlight that can scorch leaves
- Refrain from fertilizing in dormant winter months
- Don’t let soil stay soggy after watering
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Deadhead | ||||||||||||
| Divide | ||||||||||||
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| Mulch | ||||||||||||
| Plant | ||||||||||||
| Spring Cleanup |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Purple Shamrock questions
What zones can Purple Shamrock grow in?
Purple Shamrock is hardy in USDA Zones 8–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Purple Shamrock deer resistant?
Yes — Purple Shamrock is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Purple Shamrock bloom?
Purple Shamrock typically blooms in spring, summer through late spring. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Purple Shamrock need full sun?
Purple Shamrock does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
More Oxalis to compare
Oxalis Lasiandra
Oxalis lasiandra
Triangular Oxalis Purple Shamrock
Oxalis triangularis
False Shamrock
Oxalis triangularis 'Fanny'
Purple Shamrock
Oxalis stricta 'Plum Crazy'
Purple Shamrock
Oxalis triangularis 'Burgundy'
Lobed Wood Sorrel
Oxalis lobata
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
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Hardy in your zone?
Grow Purple Shamrock with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.
