Oxalis Plant Size:
Get the Right Size for You

Oxalis plants, also known as wood sorrels, are a popular choice among gardeners for their vibrant flowers and attractive foliage. These plants come in various sizes, from small ground covers to larger shrubs. Choosing the right size of an Oxalis plant is crucial to ensure it fits well in your garden and meets your aesthetic preferences. In this article, we will explore different sizes of Oxalis plants and provide tips on selecting the perfect size for your gardening needs.

Small Oxalis Varieties

Small-sized Oxalis plants are ideal for gardeners who have limited space or prefer a compact garden design. These petite plants can be planted as ground covers or used in containers, hanging baskets, or rock gardens. Here are some popular small Oxalis varieties:

1. Oxalis triangularis (Purple Shamrock)

The Oxalis triangularis, commonly known as the Purple Shamrock, is a stunning small-sized Oxalis plant that grows up to 6-12 inches in height. It features dark purple leaves with triangular-shaped leaflets and produces delicate pink or white flowers. This variety is an excellent choice for indoor gardening due to its compact size and captivating foliage.

2. Oxalis deppei (Iron Cross)

The Oxalis deppei, also known as the Iron Cross, is another small-sized Oxalis plant that reaches a height of about 6-8 inches. It has distinctive clover-like leaves with a reddish-brown pattern resembling an iron cross, hence its name. This variety produces bright yellow flowers that add a pop of color to any garden or container.

3. Oxalis articulata (Pink Wood Sorrel)

The Oxalis articulata, commonly referred to as Pink Wood Sorrel or Pink Shamrock, is a charming small-sized Oxalis plant that grows up to 6-8 inches tall. It features delicate pink flowers and attractive green foliage. This variety is perfect for adding a touch of elegance to hanging baskets or rock gardens.

Medium-Sized Oxalis Varieties

Medium-sized Oxalis plants are versatile and can be used in various garden settings. They are great for filling gaps between larger plants or as stand-alone features. Here are a few popular medium-sized Oxalis varieties:

1. Oxalis adenophylla (Silver Shamrock)

The Oxalis adenophylla, also known as Silver Shamrock or Pink Wood Sorrel, is a medium-sized Oxalis plant that grows up to 12-15 inches tall. It features silver-green leaves with delicate pink flowers that create a graceful appearance in any garden. This variety is ideal for borders, flower beds, or mixed containers.

2. Oxalis regnellii (Francis)

The Oxalis regnellii, commonly referred to as Francis, is another popular medium-sized Oxalis plant that reaches a height of about 12-18 inches. It has vibrant green leaves with bold purple markings and produces lovely white or pink flowers. This variety adds a splash of color and texture to any garden setting.

3. Oxalis spiralis (Candy Cane Sorrel)

The Oxalis spiralis, also known as Candy Cane Sorrel, is a unique medium-sized Oxalis plant that grows up to 12-18 inches tall. It features twisted green leaves with red and white stripes, resembling the candy cane plant it is named after. This variety creates an eye-catching display in gardens or containers.

Large Oxalis Varieties

For gardeners looking to make a statement or fill larger areas, large-sized Oxalis plants are the perfect choice. These robust plants can grow into shrubs and provide an impressive focal point in any landscape design. Here are a few notable large-sized Oxalis varieties:

1. Oxalis tetraphylla (Lucky Clover)

The Oxalis tetraphylla, commonly known as the Lucky Clover or Four-Leaf Sorrel, is a large-sized Oxalis plant that can reach a height of up to 3 feet. It features four-leaf clover-like leaves and produces attractive pink or white flowers. This variety is often used as a border plant or as a backdrop in flower beds.

2. Oxalis perdicaria (Cape Sorrel)

The Oxalis perdicaria, also referred to as Cape Sorrel or African Wood Sorrel, is another striking large-sized Oxalis plant that grows up to 2-3 feet tall. It has deep green leaves with purple undersides and produces vibrant pink flowers. This variety is suitable for creating a tropical ambiance in larger gardens or as a standalone feature.

3. Oxalis triangularis subsp. papilionacea (False Shamrock)

The Oxalis triangularis subsp. papilionacea, commonly called False Shamrock, is a large-sized Oxalis plant that can reach heights of up to 2-3 feet. It features eye-catching purple leaves with distinctive triangular-shaped leaflets and produces delicate pink or white flowers. This variety is perfect for adding drama and color to any garden setting.

Choosing the Right Size

When selecting an Oxalis plant size for your garden, consider the available space, desired visual impact, and maintenance requirements. Small-sized varieties are great for containers or confined areas, while medium-sized plants work well as fillers or stand-alone features. Large-sized varieties make excellent focal points or backdrops in larger gardens.

Additionally, consider the growth habit and spreading tendency of the specific Oxalis variety you choose. Some varieties may spread rapidly and require regular maintenance to prevent them from becoming invasive.

In conclusion, choosing the right size of an Oxalis plant is essential for creating a visually appealing garden that fits your available space. By considering the various sizes and characteristics of different Oxalis varieties, you can select the perfect size to suit your gardening needs and preferences. Whether you opt for a small, medium, or large-sized Oxalis plant, these beautiful plants are sure to bring charm and color to your garden.