Shamrock Plant (Oxalis) Identification and Care

Plant ID

Your friend's plant is Oxalis triangularis (Purple Shamrock) or Oxalis deppei (Green Shamrock) — also called Good Luck Plant. Three butterfly-shaped leaflets that fold at night.

Care

• Light: Bright indirect.
• Water: Evenly moist during growth.
• Dormancy: Bulbs naturally die back. When foliage yellows, stop watering. Store pot in cool, dark place 4 weeks. Then resume water and light.
• Propagation: Divide bulbs or sow seed.

Where to Buy

• Stores around St. Patrick's Day.
• Online (eBay, specialty bulb retailers).
• Local nurseries may carry bulbs.

Fun Fact

Leaf movement (nyctinasty) — folds at night, opens by day.