
The Oxalis Genius has over 800 recognized species throughout the
world.
This particular species is native in Argentina, Bolivia, and
Paraguay.
It was first cultivated in the United States in 1930.
The beautiful purple color in the leaves is hard to beat.
The long stems for the ground are topped with a cluster of three
deltoid-shaped leaflets, which are one and a half inches long.
The leaflets fold at the mid-vein and resemble purple butterflies.
The root or rhizome is an interesting thing in itself.
It looks like a fat zipper that is zipped up.
It does not matter if you plant the rhizome straight up or lay it
down, it will flourish either way.
The book on this plant is part-shade (at least protection from the
hot afternoon sun), rich moist sandy soil,
zone 7-12, height 6"-10" ,15-25 cm
This species does not have freestanding flowers, which tends to
create a droopy look in certain instances.
However, the plant's beautiful white blooms create a colorful look
for any garden. |