Oxalis vulcanicola
volcanic sorrel
A species of spreading, bulbous deciduous perennial with fleshy stems and striking trilobe green foliage which turns purple-pink when exposed to sunlight. Small, star-shaped yellow flowers appear on wiry purple stems from Summer through until the Autumn. The plant rotates its foliage to follow the sun, and the leaves can often be seen 'quivering' as they close up in the evening
Synonyms
Oxalis siliquosa hort.Oxalis hedysaroides misapplied
see moreOxalis spiralis subsp. vulcanicola
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Size
Ultimate height
0.1–0.5 metresTime to ultimate height
2–5 yearsUltimate spread
0.1–0.5 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Well–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Yellow | Pink Purple | ||
| Autumn | Yellow | Pink Purple | ||
| Winter |
Position
- Partial shade
Aspect
East–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Sheltered Hardiness
H2Botanical details
- Family
- Oxalidaceae
- Native to GB / Ireland
- No
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Habit
- Spreading branched, 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
- Mexico to Panama
How to grow
Cultivation
Grow in well-drained, humus-rich soil in full sun in a sheltered position, or in an alpine house in a mixture of equal parts loam, leaf mould and grit
Propagation
Propagate by seed or division
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Houseplants
- Patio and container plants
- Rock garden
- Sub-tropical
- Conservatory and greenhouse
Pruning
No pruning required
Pests
May be susceptible to slugs, snails and vine weevil larvae
Diseases
May be susceptible to a rust
Get involved
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