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Alpine RockeryBulbsConservatory Greenhouse

Oxalis versicolor

striped-flowered wood sorrel

A bulbous perennial 8cm tall, forming a clump of light green leaves composed of three narrow leaflets, with funnel-shaped white flowers, margined with crimson beneath giving a striped effect in bud, from late summer into winter

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Size
Ultimate height
Up to 10cm
Time to ultimate height
1–2 years
Ultimate spread
0–0.1 metre
Growing conditions
Loam
Sand
Moisture
Well–drained
pH
Alkaline, Neutral
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring
Summer Red White
Autumn Red White
Winter Red White
Position
  • Full sun
  • Partial shade
Aspect

South–facing or West–facing or East–facing

Exposure
Sheltered
Hardiness
H3
Botanical details
Family
Oxalidaceae
Native to GB / Ireland
No
Foliage
Deciduous
Habit
Bushy
Genus

Oxalis can be annuals or perennials, with fibrous, bulbous or rhizomatous rootstocks, palmately divided leaves and funnel-shaped or bowl-shaped flowers that mostly close in dull weather and at night

Name status

Correct

Plant range
South Africa

How to grow

Cultivation

Grow in well-drained, sandy or humus-rich soil in full sun in a sheltered position, or in an alpine house in a mixture of equal parts loam, leaf mould and grit

Propagation

Propagate by seed or division

Suggested planting locations and garden types
  • Patio and container plants
  • hanging basket
  • Mediterranean climate plants
  • Conservatory and greenhouse
Pruning

No pruning required

Pests

May be susceptible to slugs and snails outdoors

Diseases

May be susceptible to rust diseases

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