How to Grow and Care for Shamrock Plants

Oxalis

There are over 500 different species of Oxalis that are commonly known as Sorrels or Shamrocks. Many of them have become weeds after being imported into other regions. However, several species like the Silver Shamrock are very well behaved and make great additions to the garden as ground covers or as rock garden plants.

Growing Shamrocks in the Garden

Shamrocks may grow from bulbs, corms or rhizomes. The hardiness varies with different species, from hardy in zone 3 to frost tender. Tender species can be grown in containers and brought indoors to overwinter.

Shamrocks grow and bloom best in full sun, but will they will tolerate partial shade. In hot summer regions they will need protection from the afternoon sun. They should only be planted in very well drained soil.

Water regularly and thoroughly while actively growing, but Shamrocks prefer to be kept on the dry side during winter while they are dormant. In areas with wet winters they should be grown in raised planting beds or under the eaves of the house.

Provide protection from slugs and snails.

Growing Shamrocks as House Plants

Many hybrid Shamrocks are grown and sold as house plants in early spring. They are very easy to care for plants, but they do have a few cultural requirements. Shamrocks grow best when they are grown in bright light but not direct sun, relatively cool temperatures and plenty of fresh air.

Keep the soil evenly moist when your Shamrocks are actively growing, but allow them to slowly dry out and go into dormancy when they begin to lose vigor.

The Shamrock's Dormant Period

Like all bulb type plants, Shamrocks require a period of dormancy every once in a while. Shamrock Plants grown in containers will need two or three rest periods every year to continue growing their best. When your Shamrock plant starts looking a little punky, stop watering and as the leaves all turn brown, pull them off.

Set the planter somewhere that it will remain cool and dry for about two or three months.

Note: The purple leaved varieties of Shamrocks only need about a month of rest. After your Shamrocks have enjoyed their 'vacation' you can resume watering and give them a shot of all purpose house plant food (10-10-10). In a very short time you will be rewarded with a happy new Shamrock!

Propagating Shamrock Plants

At the end of the dormant cycle you might want to remove the Shamrock bulbs or tubers from the pot. Separate the bulbs and replant just under the surface of the soil in good, slightly sandy houseplant soil.

Shamrocks