purple shamrock (Oxalis triangularis) · Asked on Facebook · 2 November 2026
What is the name of this purple, shamrock-like plant?
This is a Purple Shamrock, also called Oxalis triangularis, a bulb-forming plant with triangular leaves that open in the day and close at night. Grow it in bright indirect light and well‑draining soil, letting the top soil dry slightly between waterings.
The question
“Hello everyone 🙂 what is the name of this plant”
What's likely going on
The plant in the photo is Purple Shamrock (Oxalis triangularis). It’s known for its triangular, three-part leaves that look like little butterflies or shamrocks and often come in deep purple or pinkish-purple shades.
Oxalis grows from small bulbs or tubers in the soil and will sometimes “sleep” by folding its leaves at night or on very cloudy days. That movement is normal and not a sign of a problem.
What to do
Light
Give it bright, indirect light. A spot near a sunny window with filtered light is ideal. Too much harsh midday sun can fade or scorch the leaves.Watering
Water when the top 2–3 cm of soil feels dry. Keep the soil lightly moist, never soggy. Good drainage is important so the bulbs don’t rot.Soil and pot
Use a well‑draining potting mix in a pot with drainage holes. A general indoor mix is fine.Feeding
During active growth (when it has plenty of leaves), feed lightly with a balanced liquid fertilizer once a month, diluted to half strength.Rest period
If the plant suddenly looks tired and many leaves die back, it may be going into a dormant period. Reduce watering, keep the pot in a cool, dry place for a few weeks, then resume normal care when new shoots appear.Pets and kids
Oxalis can cause stomach upset if eaten in quantity, so keep it out of reach of pets and small children.
How to prevent it
- Avoid overwatering to prevent bulb rot.
- Turn the pot every week or two so it grows evenly towards the light.
- Give it a short rest if it stops producing new leaves instead of forcing more water and fertilizer.
When to worry
- Mushy bulbs or a sour smell from the soil: likely rot from too much water; let the soil dry, and remove any rotten bulbs.
- Leaves turning pale yellow and floppy while soil stays wet: improve drainage and water less often.
- No new growth for months even in good light and with careful watering: dig gently to see if the bulbs are still firm; if they’re dry and shriveled or mushy, they may have died and you may need new bulbs.
Answered by the GrowPls assistant. Every plant and room is different; if things don't improve, a clear close-up photo of the affected part is the fastest way to a better answer.
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