Oxalis purpurata
Care, watering, light and tips for Oxalis purpurata on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Oxalidaceae
- Difficulty: Easy to care for
- Watering: every 4 days
- Light: Partial shade
- Temperature: 10–30 °C
- Toxicity: Toxic to pets
About Oxalis purpurata
Oxalis purpurata, commonly known as Acetosella, is a small perennial herbaceous plant renowned for its delicate, bright green trifoliate leaves, which can display purple undertones on the underside, and its charming white or pink flowers. It's ideal for hanging baskets, garden borders, or as ground cover in semi-shaded areas, adding a touch of color and texture. Its leaves fold up at night, a fascinating nyctinastic behavior.
Native range
South Africa and the Mediterranean Basin
Care tips
It prefers bright indirect light or partial shade; strong direct sun exposure can scorch its leaves. Water moderately, allowing the top layer of the substrate to dry out between waterings, avoiding waterlogging which can rot the bulbs. Use a well-draining substrate rich in organic matter. A common mistake is overwatering during its dormancy period (often in summer), which can be fatal for the plant.
How to save a dying Oxalis purpurata
- Warning signs
- Wilting, yellowing or browning leaves; no flowering; stunted growth. May indicate overwatering or lack of light.
- First aid
- Check drainage. If waterlogged, remove plant, discard wet soil, prune rotten roots, and repot in dry, light substrate.
- What kills it
- Overwatering is its biggest enemy, rotting its bulbs. Lack of direct light also weakens it quickly.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if its bulbs are not completely rotted. With a substrate change and good drainage, it can regrow.