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Conservatory GreenhouseHerbaceous Perennial

Oxalis tuberosa

oca

O. tuberosa is a sprawling perennial with edible, fleshy, red or yellow tubers, fleshy stems, and green or purple, trifoliate leaves. Small clusters of yellow, funnel-shaped flowers, 2cm across, are produced in summer

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Size
Ultimate height
0.1–0.5 metres
Time to ultimate height
2–5 years
Ultimate spread
0.1–0.5 metres
Growing conditions
Loam
Sand
Moisture
Well–drained
pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring Green Purple
Summer Yellow Green Purple
Autumn Green Purple
Winter
Position
  • Full sun
  • Partial shade
Aspect

East–facing or West–facing

Exposure
Sheltered
Hardiness
H2
Botanical details
Family
Oxalidaceae
Native to the UK
No
Foliage
Deciduous
Habit
Trailing
Genus

Oxalis can be annuals or perennials, with fibrous, bulbous or rhizomatous rootstocks, palmately divided leaves and funnel-shaped or bowl-shaped flowers that mostly close in dull weather and at night

Name status

Correct

Plant range
Chile

How to grow

Cultivation

Grow under glass in loam-based potting compost with added grit in bright, filtered light and low humidity. Can stand outside in frost-free months

Propagation

Separate and replant tubers in autumn or spring

Suggested planting locations and garden types
  • Patio and container plants
Pruning

No pruning required

Pests

May be susceptible to vine weevil

Diseases

Generally disease-free

Get involved

The Royal Horticultural Society is the UK’s leading gardening charity. We aim to enrich everyone’s life through plants, and make the UK a greener and more beautiful place.