Oxalis bowiei — Clump forming

Overview

Oxalis bowiei is a clump forming bulbs in the genus Oxalis, part of the Oxalidaceae family, with deciduous foliage. Oxalis bowiei grows best in full sun, and tolerates most soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H4. Suggested uses include patio and container plants, rock garden and cottage and informal garden.

About

Oxalis bowiei, Bowie's wood-sorrel, red-flower woodsorrel, or Cape shamrock, is a plant from the genus Oxalis, which is native to what was Cape Province and KwaZulu-Natal in South Africa. It has also been naturalized in Australia. It is named after James Bowie who collected plants for the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew at the beginning of the 19th century. Its flowering stems may be a foot or more in height and are produced continuously for a considerable length of time during summer. Grow it in full sun and most soil types. In UK gardens it is hardy through an average UK winter (RHS H4). It works well for patio and container plants, rock garden and cottage and informal garden. It tolerates soil of any pH, well-drained conditions and west-facing and south-facing aspects. Plant after last frost in fertile soil.

Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Oxalis bowiei

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Oxalis

Sunlight: Full sun
Soil type: Chalk, Loam, Sand
Soil pH: Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moisture: Well-drained
Aspect: West-facing, South-facing
Exposure: Exposed
UK hardiness: H4

Plant details

Oxalis bowiei size, habit and characteristics

Plant type: Bulbs, Alpine Rockery
Habit: Clump forming
Foliage: Deciduous
Suggested uses: Patio and container plants, Rock garden, Cottage and informal garden

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Oxalis bowiei

Propagation: Propagate by division in spring; small sections of the rhizomes root readily with bottom heat
Pest resistance: May be susceptible to slugs and snails
Disease resistance: May be susceptible to a rust

Frequently asked questions

Where is the best place to plant Oxalis bowiei?

Oxalis bowiei prefers full sun. It suits exposed positions.

What soil does Oxalis bowiei need?

Oxalis bowiei is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including chalk, loam and sand. It is happy in soil of any pH. Aim for soil that stays well-drained.