Barrel clover
Oxalis barrelieri · Oxalidaceae
📷 Aris riyanto · CC BY-SA 4.0
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant barrel clover: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Scientific name
- Oxalis barrelieri
- Family
- Oxalidaceae
- Plant type
- Perennial herbaceous
- Foliage
- Deciduous to semi-evergreen depending on climate
- Flowering
- Spring to early summer (April-June)
- Adult size
- 20 to 40 cm in height
- Hardiness
- Temperate zones, sensitive to intense cold
- Origin
- South Africa
Care
Watering
Keep the soil regularly moist without excess, particularly during active growth phase. Reduce watering in winter or during dormancy. Avoid stagnant water which promotes root rot. Water at the base of the plant to avoid wetting the foliage.
Light exposure
Place the plant in bright light, ideally in partial shade. It tolerates partially shaded areas but flowers more abundantly with good light levels. Protect it from direct afternoon rays in very hot climates.
Soil and drainage
Use light, well-draining potting mix enriched with organic matter. A mixture of leaf mould and coarse sand works perfectly. Ensure optimal drainage to prevent moisture accumulation at the root level.
Fertilizing
Apply balanced fertilizer every 2 to 3 weeks during the growing season (spring-summer). Reduce or stop feeding in autumn and winter. Prefer moderate concentration to avoid excess nitrogen.
Pruning and cleaning
Regularly remove spent flowers to extend flowering. At the end of the season or after winter, clean up dead or damaged stems. Light pruning in spring maintains a compact shape and encourages branching.
Problems and prevention
Watch for spider mites and whiteflies, particularly indoors or in dry climates. Root rot can occur with excessive moisture. Ensure good air circulation and avoid wetting the foliage to prevent fungal diseases.
Did you know?
The Oxalis genus is renowned for its leaves that fold at night or in cloudy weather, a phenomenon called nyctinasty. In South Africa, certain Oxalis species are pioneer plants that colonize disturbed soils, making them valuable ecological allies for the natural regeneration of ecosystems.
Where to buy it
Plant in spring or early autumn, avoiding spells of intense heat. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, April, May, September.
Add this plant to my garden →Plants from the same family
- OcaOxalis tuberosa
- Yellow sorrelOxalis corniculata
- Common wood sorrelOxalis stricta
- Oxalis perennansOxalis perennans
- Pink sorrelOxalis articulata
- Oxalis debilisOxalis debilis
Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.