Shamrock (Oxalis griffithii)

Shamrock

The shamrock is a plant that gardeners love and hate in equal measure. It is a prolific bloomer, sometimes year-round, but it’s also extremely invasive. In a warm, sunny area it can take over an entire garden plot in one season, pushing out other cultivated plants.

Scientific classification

Species

Shamrock (Oxalis griffithii)

Woodsorrels, quandongs, and allies

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Toxic to Pets

Toxicity

Perennial

Lifespan

Herb

Plant Type

All year round

Bloom Time

7 cm to 25 cm

Plant Height

20 cm to 30 cm

Spread

2.5 cm to 5 cm

Flower Size

White, Pink

Flower Color

Images of Shamrock

Distribution of Shamrock

Distribution Map

Shamrock is a plant originally native to parts of East Asia. It has been successfully cultivated in various regions outside its native habitat, suggesting a broad adaptability to different environments. The exact extent of its introduced range is not specified, but shamrock is known to be established beyond its original geographic boundaries.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Care Guide for Shamrock

Every week

Water

Partial sun

Sunlight

10 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Shamrock thrives in moderate moisture and prefers evenly moist soil. Watering once a week maintains its lush foliage. As an indoor herbaceous perennial, shamrock benefits from higher humidity, supporting vigorous growth and potential year-round blooming.

Fertilize: For optimal shamrock growth, apply balanced fertilizers monthly in spring and summer. Switch to high phosphorus bi-monthly during autumn, then reduce feeding in winter. Use diluted solutions to avoid root burn, adjusting amounts based on shamrock's size. Follow safety guidelines for best results.

Pruning: Shamrock features clover-like leaves and delicate flowers. Prune in early to late spring to encourage growth and maintain shape. Remove dead stems, but avoid over-pruning to prevent stress. Regular maintenance improves light exposure and reduces disease risk, yielding optimal results.

Propagation: Shamrock propagates well through division. Gardeners should separate root bulbs with a growth point, replant in well-draining soil at the same depth, and maintain consistent moisture without waterlogging. Minimal disturbance after division aids in shamrock's establishment in its new setting.

Repotting: Repot shamrock in early spring every 2-3 years using a slightly larger, well-draining pot to facilitate growth. After repotting, maintain moist but not waterlogged soil and provide bright, indirect light to promote healthy foliage development.

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