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Oxalis vulcanicola 'Zinfandel' (Volcanic sorrel)

Oxalis vulcan­icola ‘Zinfandel’ Photo/Illustration: Bill Johnson


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Hardiness Zones: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11
Botanical Name: Oxalis vulcanicola 'Zinfandel' oks-AL-iss vul-kan-IK-oh-lah Common Name: Volcanic sorrel Genus: Oxalis

The old-fashioned shamrock house­plant is now high fashion. Several introductions from Proven Winners push this group to the fore for its elegant foliage; abundant, delicate flowers; and vigor. Only 6 to 10 inches high with a spread to 12 inches, this plant’s tiny, ¾-inch-wide, bronze-colored leaf clusters and bright yellow flowers are massed on trailing stems that spill over the sides of shaded window boxes and containers.


Noteworthy characteristics: Nice houseplant.
Care: Though this shamrock is frost tender, it is easy to overwinter indoors.
Propagation:

Sow fresh seed or divide rhizomes. 


Problems:

Fungal leaf spots, powdery mildew, rust, and seed smut are the most common problems, but also watch for spider mites and leaf miners. 


Height 6 in. to 12 in.
Spread 1 ft. to 3 ft.;6 in. to 12 in.
Growth Habit Clumps
Growth Pace Moderate Grower
Light Full Sun Only;Full Sun to Part Shade;Part Shade Only
Moisture Medium Moisture
Maintenance Low
Characteristics Showy Foliage
Bloom Time Early Spring; Early Summer; Late Spring; Late Summer; Spring; Summer
Foliage Color Colorful/Burgundy Foliage
Flower Color Yellow Flower
Uses Beds and Borders, Container, Combinations, Ground Covers
Style Suitable as Annual, Cottage Garden, Woodland Garden
Seasonal Interest Summer Interest
Type Perennials

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