Oxalis tetraphylla
Oxalis tetraphylla
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Pl. BFB5 — Oxalis tetraphylla
Oxalis tetraphyllaOxalis tetraphyllaOxalis tetraphyllaOxalis tetraphyllaOxalis tetraphyllaOxalis tetraphyllaOxalis tetraphyllaOxalis tetraphyllaOxalis tetraphyllaOxalis tetraphyllaOxalis tetraphyllaOxalis tetraphyllaOxalis tetraphyllaOxalis tetraphylla
IOverview
Overview
Oxalis tetraphylla, commonly known as four-leaf clover, is a perennial plant native to Central and Southern Mexico, El Salvador, Guatemala, and Panama. This small, light-loving plant thrives in dry to moist conditions with well-drained soil that is either sandy or medium-textured. It prefers a pH range of 6.5 to 7 and can grow up to 0.1 meters tall. Known for its edible leaves, flowers, and roots, this plant has been cultivated for culinary purposes. One distinctive feature of Oxalis tetraphylla is its clover-like foliage with four leaflets per stem, which gives it a unique appearance in gardens or as an ornamental plant.
Quick answers
What is Oxalis tetraphylla?
Oxalis tetraphylla, commonly known as four-leaf clover, is a perennial plant native to Central and Southern Mexico, El Salvador, Guatemala, and Panama. This small, light-loving plant thrives in dry to moist conditions with well-drained soil that is either sandy or medium-textured.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Oxalis tetraphylla thrives in light to moderate sunlight and prefers well-draining soil that is either light (sandy) or medium-textured. It requires watering when the soil feels dry but should not be kept consistently moist. This perennial plant grows up to 0.1 meters tall and is hardy in temperate regions, making it suitable for gardens with zones 7-10. Propagation can be done through division of roots or by planting seeds. The edible parts include flowers, leaves, and root, which are safe to consume. Adjust the soil pH to between 6.5 and 7 for optimal growth.
Light
7/10
Water
Dry, Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium
Hardiness
7-10
Life cycle
Perennial
Mature size
0.1 m tall
Soil pH
6.5–7
For first-time growers
How to grow Oxalis tetraphylla for the first time
8steps
Start with Oxalis tetraphylla as a simple, low-maintenance plant for beginners.
- 1
What you'll need
A small pot, well-draining soil, and the oxalis plant.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring or early summer when temperatures are mild.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Use a light, sandy mix with good drainage. Ensure the pot has holes for water to escape.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant oxalis from a nursery pot into your prepared container.
- 5
First two weeks
Keep soil moist but not soggy, and place in bright indirect light.
- 6
Ongoing care
Water when the top inch of soil feels dry. Provide partial shade to avoid scorching leaves.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune dead foliage to maintain a neat appearance, but don't harvest for food.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, placing in full sun, and not providing enough drainage are common issues.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:FlowersLeavesRoot
Edible uses: The flowers, leaves, and roots of Oxalis tetraphylla can be eaten. The leaves are often used fresh in salads or as a garnish. Roots can be consumed raw or cooked. Skip the preparation details to maintain brevity.
Other uses:Ground cover
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
8 native · 12 introduced
Distribution
8 native · 12 introducedDistribution across4 continents· 8 native· 12 introduced
Europe3 regions
introduced (3)AustriaFranceUnited Kingdom
Asia3 regions
introduced (3)IndiaSouth KoreaVietnam
Americas2 regions
native (2)El SalvadorGuatemala
Africa1 region
introduced (1)Cameroon
Broader regions
native:Mexico Central, Mexico Gulf, Mexico Northeast, Mexico Southeast, Mexico Southwest, Panamá
introduced:Réunion, West Himalaya, Yugoslavia, Jawa
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXI
Explore further
Companion planting
Growing zone
XII
About this entry
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Back to the cataloguePlant id · bfb5fd7f-29b6-432a-b85a-74907826f2c1
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