One of the plants that became very famous a few years ago is Oxalis spiralis. Also known as African clover (or butterfly plant). Have you heard of her?
If you see it in stores, or at the home of a family member or friend, it will surprise you. And the truth is that it is very easy to care for. In fact, today we focus on its characteristics and necessary care so that you can enjoy the plant for many years. Shall we start?
What is Oxalis spiralis like?
Oxalis spiralis is a perennial plant that does not grow much. Normally, it stays at fifteen centimeters in height. The most characteristic thing about it are its leaves, which are heart-shaped and also have a very striking shade between green and pink. But there is more.
And these leaves, which are made up of three lobes, have the curiosity that they are based on light. You see, in the morning, the leaves open. But, at night, you will find them closed. In fact, the first time you see it you will think that it has withered without knowing why. So we already warned you that if that happens to you, the best thing you can do is enjoy because it is a plant with movement.
For example, Imagine that you have it in an area where the sun hits it first thing in the morning. But, later, it remains in shadow and only gives light in a part to the right. Well, in a matter of hours this plant could move its branches and leaves to that area.
Although we have told you that Oxalis spiralis is not too tall, the truth is that, in terms of volume, it can reach thirty centimeters. It's quite leafy and that's really how it looks beautiful.
Now, does it flower? If she does. But we must warn you that this plant does not have very pretty flowers that rival the leaves. The flowers are yellow, although there are some varieties that grow them in pink, white or purple. All of them are made up of five petals in total.
Oxalis spiralis care
Have you been interested in Oxalis spiralis? After seeing its features, it is very likely that you will like having it at home. And it's no wonder (physically she looks even prettier). But, to have it look like the first day, and also be healthy, it is necessary to take into account its needs. And, although it is not a delicate plant, it does have some points to take into account. We tell you all of them.
Location and temperature
You should know about Oxalis spiralis that it is more of an outdoor plant than an indoor plant. But in reality it can be had in both locations. In reality, it will depend mainly on the temperature.
And is that Oxalis spiralis needs an ideal temperature that is between 15 and 25 degrees Celsius. Higher than these can exhaust the plant and dry it out; and less than 15 would damage the leaves, stems and roots due to the cold.
Therefore, if where you live you can maintain a more or less constant temperature, you can have it outside the home (if you can protect it, create an ideal environment...). But if not, better indoors and in an area where it receives a lot of indirect light.
In fact, although we have told you that it needs indirect light, if you can give it a little direct sunlight first thing in the morning or late in the afternoon it will greatly appreciate it.
Substratum
The soil for Oxalis spiralis needs to be very nutritious and also with a lot of drainage. This plant is very active and therefore demands many nutrients, which is why you need it to have an adequate mix.
But, in addition, it is a plant that requires the soil to always be moist (if it dries out, the plant can also dry out very quickly). So add some worm hummus or similar to the mix so you don't have a problem with it.
Irrigation
One of the most important aspects of Oxalis spiralis is watering. As we have told you before, it is a plant that needs the soil to be moist (not waterlogged).. Therefore, it is advisable that you water it the moment you see that the soil is drying out.
Actually, there is no watering guideline because it will depend on where you live, where you have it, what temperature and season it is...
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Another important aspect is the fertilization of the plant. This should be done twice a month during spring and summer.
Even when you transplant it, adding a little organic fertilizer won't hurt at all.
Pruning
Although Oxalis spiralis is not a plant that you should prune, it is You should keep it clean of withered flowers and leaves. This will not only help you have a better physical appearance, but you will also be able to prevent pests and diseases.
Plagues and diseases
Speaking of these, we must tell you that Oxalis spiralis is a somewhat delicate plant in this sense.
The most common pests on this plant are mites and whiteflies. These appear if the maintenance and cleaning of the plant is neglected, which is why you will face these pests.
Regarding diseases, the most common has to do with excess water. But the lack of sunlight can also cause a serious problem for the plant.
Reproduction
And we come to the end, to the propagation of Oxalis spiralis. You should know that this has two common forms of multiplication:
Through bulb suckers: that is, new bulbs that emerge from the first ones and that can be separated by cutting with a very sharp knife and leaving a few days for the wounds to heal before planting them again.
Through cuttings: which you can plant directly into the ground and wait for it to settle and create a new plant.
Oxalis spiralis is a plant that looks beautiful both inside the house and outside. Its flowering is beautiful, but above all, its leaves are the most special thing about it. You have it? Any advice that could be useful so that it is taken care of?