Oxalis tetraphylla 'Iron Cross'

RHS Plant Profile
lucky clover 'Iron Cross'

Synonyms

Oxalis deppei 'Iron Cross'

Bulbs Herbaceous Perennial

A spreading herbaceous perennial up to15cm in height when in flower, with clover-like green leaves and dark brown patches at the base of each heart-shaped leaflet forming a cross shape. Bright brick pink funnel-shaped flowers appear late spring to late summer

Position

Full sun

Soil Types

Sand, Loam

Max Height

0.1-0.5 metres

Max Spread

0.1-0.5 metres

Size

Time to Maturity
2–5 years
Max Spread
0.1-0.5 metres
Max Height
0.1-0.5 metres

Growing Conditions

Sand Loam
Moisture
Well–drained or Moist but well–drained
pH
Acid or Alkaline or Neutral

Position

Full sun
Aspect
East–facing or South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Sheltered
Hardiness
H4
Drought Resistance
Yes

Colour & Scent

Season Stem Flower Foliage Fruit
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Botanical Details

Family
Oxalidaceae
Native to GB/Ireland
No
Foliage
Deciduous
Habit
Clump forming, Matforming
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
Unresolved

How to Grow

Cultivation

Grow in well-drained, nutrient poor 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

  • City and courtyard gardens
  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Houseplants
  • Patio and container plants
  • Rock garden
  • Banks and slopes
  • Conservatory and greenhouse

Pruning

No pruning required

Pests

May be susceptible to slugs and snails outdoors

Diseases

May be susceptible to rust diseases