Oxalis obtusa

Oxalis obtusa, sometimes called Yellow-eyed Sorrel, is a small South African bulbous plant with a long autumn and winter flowering period. It is most commonly cultivated in pots outside of Mediterranean regions. This species, one of the most ornamental in its genus, is characterized by pale green clover-like foliage, and especially by its relatively large flowers for an Oxalis, which are salmon pink with a yellow centre. A lovely indoor plant that brings colour to the winter!

Oxalis obtusa, from the Oxalidaceae family, blooms in winter in the plains of the Cape region during the rainy season. It is an herbaceous plant that grows from a small tuberized rhizome that is brown and resembles a raisin. This storage organ allows it to survive the dry and hot season by resting underground. The vegetation emerges from the ground in October and disappears in April-May. In summer, the plant should not be watered. It forms a cushion-like growth of 10 to 12cm (4 to 5in) in height that spreads over time. The leaves are divided into 3 leaflets and are borne on a long petiole that emerges directly from the rhizome. The flowering period is long, lasting for 6 weeks between late October and late March depending on the growing conditions and planting date. The flowers, 2.5cm (1in) wide, are composed of 5 petals, the colour of which may vary depending on the clones. The most common in cultivation displays salmon pink flowers veined with darker shades, with a yellow centre. This flowering attracts pollinating insects and is followed by the formation of elongated fruits divided into 3 chambers containing the seeds.

Most commonly perennial plants with bulbous or rhizomatous stolons, Oxalis are rarely used, yet they flower abundantly and have a wide range of uses. In short, they are plants for gardeners looking to venture off the beaten path. Oxalis obtusa will make a great impression in a hanging basket or a flowerpot, or in a sunny rockery if planted in the ground. In the garden, it can be paired with other small early-flowering bulbs such as crocuses and botanical tulips. Plant the bulbs among small shrubs that will fill the space in summer, during their dormant period.