You don't have to be Irish to appreciate the beauty of the shamrock.
Shamrock houseplants that are available in garden centres this time of year are actually a member of the Oxalis family. The Oxalis regnelii, are a small plant growing 15 centimetres tall. It has dark green triangular leaves known as trifoliate meaning that the leaves are divided into three leaflets.
When you look at each leaflet you will notice that it is made up of two triangles. The leaflets grow at the ends of thin, green, wiry stems as does the small white five petalled flowers. Both flowers and leaves close up night, and in the morning they open up again.
They also grow towards the light, as I have noticed that the one at home that was placed on the coffee table is doing. For even growth rotate the plant every couple of days.
Oxalis regnelii are easy to care for houseplants as they are rarely bothered by pest or disease. Place the plant in a bright location such as a south- or west-facing window. In the summer when the sun gets hot, keep the plant out of the hot direct sun.
These plants prefer cooler indoor temperatures of 12 to 20 Celsius as this will also prolong the flowering time. Water the plants soil thoroughly when the soil begins to feel dry to the touch. Drain out any excess water as the plant does not like to sit in water.
You may notice that after a while the plant will begin to look 'tired' as leaves may yellow and the plant looks leggy. Oxalis are grown from a bulb which will need to go dormant for a small period of time.
When you see the plant needing a rest, stop giving it water and fertilizer and place it in a cool, dark space.
Remove the brown leaves and allow it to rest for a couple of months.
After two months bring the pot out and start to water and it should regrow again. To propagate new plants, dig out the bulbs after they have gone dormant and divide them and replant again. Oxalis prefer to be root-bound before being transplanted.
Have you wondered why shamrocks are a symbol of St. Patricks Day. Apparently there is an Irish tale that speaks of Saint Patrick the saint of Ireland credited for bringing Christianity to the Irish.
He was a teacher and used the shamrock to explain the Holy Trinity of the Father, Son and Holy Ghost, using the three leaflets on one stem. He died March 17 and in honour of him his followers wore a shamrock.
This St. Patricks day, whether you are Irish or not, why not get your own little piece of irish history by having an Oxalis regnelii (false shamrock) plant for your home.
