Oxalis triangularis 'Fanny'

Oxalis triangularis 'Fanny' is a lovely variety of purple false shamrock that stands out for its green foliage marbled with silver and its remarkably generous flowering. It is a small perennial bulbous plant, but sensitive to cold, with beautiful foliage that moves with the light and folds amusingly in the evening. Its small flowers of a tender pink colour bloom during a long spring to summer period. Sensational when hanging, adorable in pots, this Oxalis can be placed on the balcony or terrace during the warm season, in a partially shaded (morning sun only) and cool location. Indoors, place it in full light but without direct sunlight.

Oxalis triangularis 'Fanny' belongs to the Oxalidaceae family. Its wild ancestor is widespread in several South American countries such as Argentina, Brazil, Bolivia, and Paraguay. It is an herbaceous plant that grows from a tuberous rhizome. The vegetation emerges from the ground in spring and normally disappears in winter, which corresponds to its resting period in nature, almost dry. From the bulb, a long stem topped with three leaves emerges. The plant measures about 15cm (6in) in height. The leaf is divided into 3 generally triangular leaflets, arranged in the same plane perpendicular to the petiole. The leaves orient themselves by following the light: they close on the petiole in the evening and spread out at sunrise. The flowering period is long, from May-June to July-August, and sometimes even until September. It takes the form of umbels carried by a long petiole. Each umbel bears up to 12 small pale pink flowers, funnel-shaped and with 5 rounded lobes.

Most often perennial plants, with bulbous or rhizomatous roots, rarely used, Oxalis are nevertheless plants that flower abundantly and have a wide range of uses. In short, they are plants for gardeners who want to venture off the beaten path. Oxalis triangularis 'Fanny' will make a big impact in a hanging basket or flowering pot, always away from the harsh sun. This trendy little plant fits perfectly into a contemporary interior.