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Conservatory GreenhouseHerbaceous Perennial

Oxalis tuberosa

oca

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 GB / Ireland
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 peat-free, 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
  • Sub-tropical
  • Conservatory and greenhouse
Pruning

No pruning required

Pests

May be susceptible to vine weevil

Diseases

Generally disease-free

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