Oxalis tetraphylla (often traded under its synonym O. deppei) is a bulbous herbaceous perennial plant from Mexico. It is sometimes sold as lucky clover or shamrock (even if it isn't a clover). In the wild or feral state it is often called four-leaved wood-sorrel after its genus Oxalidaceae. Other English common names for this plant include Lucky Glover, Four-Leaf Sorrel, Four-Leaf Pink-Sorrel and others. It is sometimes called "the iron cross plant" or "oxalis iron cross" because the leaves loosely resemble the iron cross symbol, though this name is not a classic folk term and has fallen out of favour due to the bad political connotations associated with this symbol. It is in the same family as the common wood-sorrel (Oxalis acetosella) and has three wild variants: var. tetraphylla (autonym) distributed in the states of Veracruz, México, Morelos and Michoacán, var. mexicana native to Hidalgo and Guerrero regions and var. guerreroensis native to Oaxaca, Guerrero, Michoacán and Colima regions.
Iron cross is fairly resistant to disease and typically does not suffer from illnesses. Still, it can be vulnerable to pests and diseases present in its environment, although these problems are usually mild. Regarding care, this plant needs a moderate level of maintenance. It should be pruned on a regular basis to keep a neat appearance and encourage healthy growth. Applying fertilizer can also help stimulate flowering. Iron cross is well suited for anyone with outdoor space, such as a garden or patio, and does not demand extensive plant-care experience. It may need more attention if cultivated indoors.
How to keep Oxalis Deppei.
Light
Iron cross grows best with plenty of sunlight, though it tolerates moderate sun. The plant comes from regions with abundant sunshine that promotes healthy growth. Too much sunlight can scorch the leaves, and too little light leads to stunted growth. Therefore, a balance of light is necessary for optimal health.
Temperature
Iron cross is native to temperate climates and does best at temperatures between 59 and 95 °F (15 to 35 ℃). In colder seasons, consider relocating the iron cross to a warmer spot or providing artificial heat.
Fertilizer
For Iron cross, the primary time to apply fertilizer is in early spring when the flowers are beginning to form. The appropriate fertilizer promotes better blooms and helps Iron cross develop attractive flowers. Fertilizing in early spring ensures excellent flowers during the season and supplies energy for dormant growth phases.
Botanical profile.
- Plant Type
- Herb
- Life Cycle
- Perennial
- Genus
- Oxalis
- Family
- Oxalidaceae
- Hardiness Zone
- 8-9
- Mature Height
- 15 cm to 30 cm
- Mature Spread
- 10 cm to 15 cm
- Leaf Color
- Green, Red
- Leaf Type
- Deciduous
- Flower Color
- Pink, Red
- Flower Size
- 2.54 cm to 5.08 cm
- Bloom Time
- Late spring, Early summer, Mid summer
- Planting Time
- Spring
- Harvest Time
- Mid summer
- Native Area
- Mexico, Guatemala, El Salvador, Costa Rica, Panama
Other names.
