Overview
Oxalis spiralis is a clump forming bulbs in the genus Oxalis, part of the Oxalidaceae family, with deciduous foliage. Oxalis spiralis 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 spiralis is a clump-forming cultivar of the Oxalis genus, which includes both annual and perennial plants with fibrous, bulb-like, or rhizomatous roots. This deciduous bulb thrives in full sun and well-drained soils such as chalk, loam, or sand, and is hardy to UK zone H4. Its palmately divided leaves and funnel-shaped flowers are typical of the genus, closing during overcast weather and at night. Suitable for rock gardens, patios, and informal cottage gardens, it prefers west- or south-facing, exposed sites and is best propagated by division in spring.
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 spiralis 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 spiralis
- 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 spiralis?
Oxalis spiralis prefers full sun. It suits exposed positions.
What soil does Oxalis spiralis need?
Oxalis spiralis 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.
Is Oxalis spiralis hardy in the UK?
Oxalis spiralis has an RHS hardiness rating of H4, meaning it is hardy through an average UK winter, tolerating -10 to -5°C.
How do I propagate Oxalis spiralis?
Propagate by division in spring; small sections of the rhizomes root readily with bottom heat.
More in the Oxalis genus
- Oxalis acetosellacommon wood sorrel
- Oxalis articulata subsp. rubra 'Alba'
- Oxalis bowiei
- Oxalis debilis var. debilis
- Oxalis incarnatapale pink sorrel
- Oxalis obliquifolia
- Oxalis ortgiesiitree oxalis
- Oxalis purpurea
