Oxalis debilis
Oxalis debilis · Oxalidaceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant oxalis debilis: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Foliage
- Evergreen to semi-evergreen
- Flowering
- Spring and summer, pale pink to magenta flowers
- Mature size
- 15 to 30 cm tall, spreading habit
- Growth
- Fast
- Hardiness
- Low hardiness (mild climate, light frosts)
- Origin
- South America
- Soil type
- Well-draining, light soil
- Exposure
- Bright light, partial shade tolerated
Care
Watering
Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged, especially during the growing season. Reduce watering in fall and winter. Avoid standing water which promotes rot.
Light Exposure
Prefer bright, indirect light. Indoors, place the plant near a window without intense direct sun. Light partial shade is tolerated.
Soil
Use light, well-draining substrate enriched with potting soil and sand. Adding perlite improves permeability and reduces rotting risks.
Fertilizing
Apply balanced, diluted fertilizer once or twice a month during growth (spring-summer). Stop in winter or reduce applications.
Pruning and Pinching
Remove damaged or dead parts. Light pinching of stems in spring promotes branching and a more compact habit.
Diseases and Pests
Watch for spider mites and mealybugs indoors. Good air circulation reduces risks. Avoid excess humidity which encourages fungal issues.
Did you know?
The genus Oxalis, to which this species belongs, takes its name from the Greek 'oxys' (acid) referring to oxalic acid present in its leaves, which gives them a slightly tart flavor. Some Oxalis species are consumed in certain regions, while others are invasive, forming veritable plant carpets in favorable conditions.
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
- Slender yellow woodsorrelOxalis dillenii
Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.