Oxalis mollissima
Care, watering, light and tips for Oxalis mollissima on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Oxalidaceae
- Difficulty: Easy to care for
- Watering: every 7 days
- Light: Partial shade
- Temperature: 10–30 °C
- Toxicity: Toxic to pets
About Oxalis mollissima
Oxalis mollissima, locally known as Cholluku, is a small perennial herbaceous plant from the Oxalidaceae family, native to the Andes. It is characterized by its delicate trifoliate leaves and bright yellow flowers that open on sunny days. It is ideal for rock gardens, path borders, or as a groundcover in temperate-cold climate gardens.
Native range
Andean region of South America (mainly Peru, Bolivia, and Ecuador)
Care tips
It requires full sun to partial shade exposure for optimal flowering. Watering should be moderate, allowing the substrate to dry slightly between waterings, and reduced during its winter dormancy period. It prefers well-drained soils, rich in organic matter, and with a slightly acidic pH. A common mistake is overwatering, which can lead to root rot.
How to save a dying Oxalis mollissima
- Warning signs
- Wilting or yellowing leaves, soft stems, no new growth. May shrink.
- First aid
- Check drainage. Water only when soil is dry to touch. Place in bright indirect light.
- What kills it
- Overwatering. Does not tolerate soggy soil. Strong direct sun also burns it.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if you act fast. Remove damaged parts and adjust watering/light. It's resilient.