Oxalis Planting Guide：Discover the Beauty of “Jumping Clovers”

Have you ever noticed small clover-like plants growing along flowerpots or sidewalk cracks? These plants have heart-shaped leaves that often bounce when touched, which is why they’re affectionately called “Jumping Clovers.” Their scientific name is Oxalis.

Bonus fact: The name “Oxalis” refers to its naturally tangy taste — yes, those leaves are a little sour!

🌿 Oxalis Comes in Many Varieties

Oxalis is a large genus with both wild and cultivated types. Most ornamental varieties are easy to grow and visually striking. Based on their root types, Oxalis plants can be divided into:

• Fibrous-rooted

• Bulbous

• Rhizomatous

• Tuberous

They also differ by planting season:

• Spring-planted: Dormant in winter

• Autumn-planted: Dormant in summer

• Year-round varieties: No dormancy

🍂 Popular Autumn-Planting Oxalis

Autumn Oxalis mainly originates from South Africa and South America. Over 500 cultivated varieties have been introduced in China. The main autumn-planting types include:

1. Oxalis obtusa (OB Series): Most common, highly floriferous

2. Oxalis purpurea: Compact and hardy

3. Oxalis hirta: Long-haired stems

4. Oxalis flava: Bright yellow or bi-colored blooms

Some popular ornamental varieties:

• Oxalis obtusa 'Elizabeth' – Dense foliage, delicate pink flowers

• Oxalis purpurea 'Joory' – Rosy-pink with darker centers

• Oxalis hirta 'Gothenbury' – Violet petals with white centers

• Oxalis flava 'Versicolor' – Also known as “Ice Cream Bicolor”

New and rare types include:

• Oxalis glabra 'Salmon' – Deep wine-red blooms

• Oxalis 'Yael' – Unique tri-colored foliage

• Oxalis palmifrons – Palm-shaped leaves, prized for foliage aesthetics

🌱 How to Plant & Grow Oxalis

1. Soil Mix

Oxalis prefers a well-draining mix. Use garden soil mixed with perlite or coarse sand. Avoid heavy or sticky soil.

2. When to Plant

• Autumn planting: Begin in August after sprouting. Unsprouted bulbs can go in during October–November.

• Spring planting: From March to July.

Tip: If you’re unsure of the bulb’s orientation, plant it sideways. Cover it with soil about 2–3 times the bulb’s height.

3. Digging & Storage

Once leaves have fully wilted, wait 2 weeks before harvesting bulbs. This helps the bulb absorb nutrients for next year’s growth.
After drying, store in breathable paper or mesh bags — do not refrigerate. Room temperature storage is best.

🌼 Bonus: Other Oxalis Types You May Know

• Oxalis triangularis – Purple-leaf variety often used in landscape design

• Oxalis corniculata – Common clover look-alike, seen in green spaces

Whether you're a beginner or an advanced gardener, Oxalis offers vibrant flowers, fun foliage, and a bit of magic. Plant them in fall, and enjoy a burst of springtime color with minimal effort.

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