Overview
Parochetus communis subsp. communis is a matforming conservatory greenhouse in the genus Parochetus, part of the Fabaceae family, with evergreen foliage. Parochetus communis subsp. communis grows best in full shade, and tolerates most soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H2. Suggested uses include patio and container plants.
About
Parochetus communis subsp. communis is a matforming cultivar of the Parochetus genus, which includes perennial plants with a trailing or prostrate habit. This evergreen plant features trifoliate leaves resembling clover and blue, pea-like flowers. It thrives in full shade and prefers sheltered, east-, south-, north-, or west-facing aspects. Suitable for conservatories or greenhouses, it grows best in fertile, moist but well-drained soils of various types and pH levels. Hardy to H2, it is ideal for patio and container planting, with interest during spring and summer. Propagation is by division or separate rooted runners.
About the genus
Parochetus communis, known in English as shamrock pea or blue oxalis, is a species of legume, and the only species in the genus Parochetus and in the subtribe Parochetinae. It is a low-growing plant with blue papilionaceous flowers and clover-like leaves. It is found in the mountains of Asia and tropical Africa, and has been introduced to New Zealand.
Wikipedia contributors, "Parochetus", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Parochetus
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Parochetus
- Sunlight
- Full shade
- Soil type
- Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
- Soil pH
- Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Moist but well-drained
- Aspect
- East-facing, South-facing, North-facing, West-facing
- Exposure
- Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H2
Plant details
Parochetus communis subsp. communis size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Conservatory Greenhouse
- Habit
- Matforming
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Suggested uses
- Patio and container plants
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Parochetus communis subsp. communis
- Propagation
- Division, separate rooted runners
- Pest resistance
- Susceptible to slugs and snails
- Disease resistance
- Generally disease-free
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Parochetus communis subsp. communis?
Parochetus communis subsp. communis prefers full shade. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Parochetus communis subsp. communis need?
Parochetus communis subsp. communis is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including chalk, clay, loam and sand. It is happy in soil of any pH. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.
Is Parochetus communis subsp. communis hardy in the UK?
Parochetus communis subsp. communis has an RHS hardiness rating of H2, meaning it is tender, tolerating 1–5°C, and needs frost-free protection over winter.
How do I propagate Parochetus communis subsp. communis?
Division, separate rooted runners.