Four-leaf pink-sorrel

Four-leaf pink-sorrel Care

Oxalis tetraphylla

What is the plant

Oxalis tetraphylla is a bulbous plant from Mexico. A common name is "Iron Cross", after a famous cultivar; it is also known as "lucky clover", and in a wild or feral state as four-leaf sorrel or, least ambiguously, four-leaved pink-sorrel.

The plant has leaves divided into four and has been called "lucky leaf" and even "four-leaf clover", but it is not a true clover. Related to the common wood-sorrel (Oxalis acetosella), it is commonly used as an ornamental plant. It is also edible, the flowers and leaves having a sharp lemon flavor. However, since the oxalic acid in the plant can interfere with the absorption of certain nutrients in the body, especially calcium, too much can be harmful. If a lucky clover, Oxalis tetraphylla in New Year’s Eve fulfills its purpose as a little present or table decoration, the pretty plant should not be rashly used as compost. With the decorative, four-split leaves and pretty flowers, an oxalis tetraphylla acts as a distinctive summer blossom on the window sill and decorates the balcony.

If you’ve recognized any mistakes feel free to notify us about it. This would help us to provide only the best-quality information.

Humidity

Normal

Lighting

Part Sun

Temperature

10°C - 10°C

Hardiness zone

min 7a

Difficulty

Medium

How to Care for the Plant

Water
The floral Oxalis tetraphylla, lucky clover loves uniform soil moisture, without the risk of waterlogging. Water a four-leaf clover only when the soil surface is noticeably dry. It is an advantage for the vitally when using only soft water. In the normal tap water, lime is present, which increases permanently the PH value in the substrate.
Fertilizer
A characteristic of a lucky clover (Oxalis tetraphylla) is the low nutrient requirement. If you use a common liquid fertilizer every 4 weeks between April and September, the potted plant is fully satisfied.
Sunlight
On the balcony or in the garden Oxalis tetraphylla can be placed in a sunny to semi-shady position. Indoors sunny and bright spots are welcome.

Disease diagnosis

Check your plant’s health

Ease your plant care routine with PlantIn's personalized system.

Soil
Opt for peat free mixes for container plants, vegetables or herbs can be used.
Temperature
In a sunny place, a lucky clover feels like home when temperatures hover between 18 and 20°C. In winter time, please choose a place away from an active radiator as the dry heat does not please your green mascot.
Container
Choose a container with enough drainage holes.