About
Oxalis enneaphylla, the scurvy grass, is a rhizomatous perennial forming a low mat to 8 cm tall and 15 cm wide with slightly fleshy leaves composed of about nine leaflets. Fragrant, funnel-shaped, rosy-pink flowers 2.5 cm across are borne just above the foliage in late spring and early summer. A beautiful, compact Oxalis for a sunny rock garden or alpine trough.
About the genus
Oxalis are annuals or perennials with fibrous, bulbous or rhizomatous rootstocks, palmately divided leaves and funnel-shaped or bowl-shaped flowers that mostly close in dull weather and at night. A diverse genus for sunny or shaded positions.
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun
Soil typeChalk, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureWell-drained
AspectWest-facing, South-facing
ExposureExposed
UK hardinessH4
Plant details
Plant typeAlpine Rockery, Bulbs
HabitMatforming
FoliageDeciduous
HeightUp to 10 cm
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height5-10 years
Suggested usesPatio and container plants, Rock garden, Cottage and informal garden
Native toS America, Falkland Islands
Care notes
CultivationGrows well full sun in any moderately fertile, well-drained, humus-rich soil. Suitable for rock garden, raised bed, trough or alpine house
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationPropagate by seed, sown with moderate heat in late winter or early spring
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to slugs and snails
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to a rust