Oxalis , commonly live as wood roselle or shamrock , is a divers and widespread genus encompassing hundreds of specie , each with its own charm and utility in gardens and born habitat . This genus belong to the kinfolk Oxalidaceae , and its members are get hold across the globe , from the temperate forests of North America to the tropical rainforests of South America , and the arid region of Africa . The adaptability of Oxalis to different mood and term has made it both a beloved garden industrial plant and , in some cases , an invading metal money in expanse where it is n’t native .

Leaves are trifoliolate , giving them a clover - like coming into court , which explain why some metal money are referred to as “ shamrocks ” . However , the genus includes coinage with varying leafage shapes and sizes , from the fondness - shaped leaves of Oxalis triangularis to the more traditional , clover - like leave of Oxalis acetosella . The leaves often exhibit a unequalled behaviour known as nyctinasty , where they fold up at nighttime or in the absence of lighting , which adds an synergistic element to their cultivation . The foliage can range in color from vibrant greens to bass purple , with some coinage showcasing variegation or trenchant patterns .

bloom deviate wide in semblance , include yellowness , pinks , reds , purples , and whites , often with intricate pattern or stripes in some species like Oxalis versicolor , known as the Candy Cane Oxalis . These prime not only contribute to the aesthetic charm of gardens but also attract pollinator like bees and butterflies , enhancing biodiversity . The blooming stop can be quite extensive for some coinage , providing color throughout much of the growing season .

Many species spring up from bulbs or corm , which allow for soft multiplication through division . They generally favour well - drain dirt , with preference for sun ranging from full sun to mottled shade depending on the metal money . Some , like Oxalis triangularis , are popular as houseplants due to their spectacular appearance and low - maintenance penury , while others are suited for outdoor gardens where they can naturalize or serve as basis cover . However , gardeners must be cautious with sure species , such as Oxalis pes - caprae , due to their trespassing potential , which can outcompete native plant life if not handle .

Species of Oxalis

Oxalis acetosella(Common Wood Sorrel )

Oxalis triangularis(Purple Shamrock )

Oxalis deppei(Iron Cross Oxalis )

Oxalis corniculata(Creeping Wood Sorrel )

Oxalis debilis(Pink Sorrel )

Oxalis tetraphylla(‘Iron Cross ’ )

Oxalis versicolor(Candy Cane Oxalis )

Oxalis stricta(Yellow Wood Sorrel )

Oxalis grandis(Great Wood Sorrel )

Oxalis oreophila

Oxalis magellanica(Magellanica Oxalis )

Oxalis violacea(Violet Wood Sorrel )

Oxalis pes - caprae(Bermuda Buttercup )

Oxalis incarnata(Crimson Wood Sorrel )

Oxalis purpurea(Purple - Flowered Oxalis )

Oxalis articulata(Pink Sorrel )

Cultivation Tips for Oxalis