How to Grow Oxalis
Oxalis tetraphylla
Plant oxalis bulbs 5 cm deep in spring after the last frost, spacing them 10-15 cm apart in full sun or partial shade. They thrive in containers and borders, producing charming four-leaf clover foliage with distinctive dark cross markings and delicate pink flowers throughout summer. Water regularly during growth but avoid waterlogging. After foliage dies back in autumn, lift bulbs, dry thoroughly, and store frost-free over winter.
When to Start
Plant directly outdoors once soil temperature reaches 10°C. No seed starting needed — grow from bulbs, tubers, or sets.
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Growth Stages
Approximate days from start
Care Essentials
- Balanced liquid feed every 2-3 weeks during active growth and flowering.
- Plant bulbs 5cm deep in spring after last frost. Ideal for borders, rockeries, and containers. The distinctive four-leaf clover shape with dark cross markings makes this a charming ornamental.
Growing Conditions
- Min. soil temperature
- 10°C+
- Germination temperature
- 15–22°C
Pet Safety
- Direct sow
- —
- First harvest
- —
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Spacing & Planting
| Plant spacing | 12 cm |
| Row spacing | 18 cm |
| Sow depth | 5 cm |
| Mature height | 15 cm |
| Mature spread | 20 cm |
Plant bulbs 5cm deep and 10-15cm apart in groups for best effect. Works well in containers.
Pests & Diseases
Pest Vine Weevil
Identification: Adults cause notched leaf edges; white C-shaped larvae found in soil around damaged bulbs. Plants suddenly wilt and collapse when larvae sever roots and eat into bulbs
- Apply biological control nematodes (Steinernema kraussei) in spring or autumn when soil is warm
- Check containers in autumn and remove any larvae found
- Use sticky barriers around pot rims to trap adult weevils at night
- Drench compost with acetamiprid-based vine weevil killer in late summer
Pest Slugs and Snails
Identification: Irregular holes in leaves and young shoots eaten; slime trails visible around plants
- Apply organic slug pellets (ferric phosphate) around emerging shoots
- Use copper tape barriers around containers
- Encourage natural predators such as hedgehogs and ground beetles
- Ferric phosphate-based pellets
Pest Aphids
Identification: Clusters of small green or black insects on young leaves and flower stems, causing distorted growth
- Blast off with a strong jet of water
- Spray with fatty acid-based insecticide
- Encourage ladybirds and hoverflies
- Spray with a contact insecticide if infestation is severe
Disease Bulb Rot
Symptoms: Soft, mushy bulbs with foul smell; yellowing and wilting foliage; plant fails to emerge in spring
Treatment: Destroy affected bulbs. Improve drainage and avoid overwatering
Prevention: Ensure well-drained soil or compost. Do not overwater. Dry bulbs thoroughly before winter storage. Inspect stored bulbs regularly and discard any showing signs of rot
Disease Oxalis Rust Puccinia oxalidis
Symptoms: Small orange-brown pustules on the undersides of leaves; yellowing and premature leaf drop
Treatment: Remove and destroy affected leaves. Improve air circulation around plants
Prevention: Avoid overhead watering. Space plants well for good air circulation. Remove fallen debris
Growing Conditions
| Min. soil temperature | 10°C |
| Germination temperature | 15–22°C |
| Photoperiod sensitivity | day neutral |
Frequently Asked Questions
- How far apart should I plant Oxalis?
- Plant Oxalis 12cm apart with 18cm between rows.
- When does Oxalis flower?
- Oxalis typically flowers approximately 65 days after transplanting.
- Is Oxalis frost hardy?
- Oxalis is classified as Half Hardy.
