Whether green or purple, the false shamrock is truly adorable This plant, popular for St. Patrick’s Day, has a secret — it hails from Brazil, not Ireland. by Sara Bruestle Saturday, March 16 ...

Oxalis, or the false shamrock’s (Oxalis triangularis) dramatic dark purple leaves and sprays of starry white or pale pink flowers will make a striking statement in any houseplant collection.

Oxalis is known as "false shamrock." Often, oxalis can prove a bit of a pest. “It’s a native plant, but it’s usually considered a weed in yards and landscapes,” Lollar said.

In the spring, it develops five-petaled, yellow flowers from three stalks emerging from the main stalk. Okra-shaped pods explosively discharge teardrop-shaped seeds when plants are disturbed.

Oxalis Crassipes, the green leafed version has small delicate white flowers and Oxalis Triangularis, or False Shamrock, has dark purple leaves with pinkish lavender flowers.

7. Beautiful blooms Oxalis produces delicate pink, white, or yellow flowers in summer, guaranteed to bring joy to your home. 8. Some are edible A fun fact is that some Oxalis varieties are edible.

Every St. Patrick’s Day, many stores sell a plant called the "false shamrock". As the name suggests, this plant (Oxalis) is not a shamrock, but an easily grown houseplant that does resemble the ...

Purple leaf false shamrock Oxalis triangularis ssp. papilonacea ‘Atropurpurea’ Size: Clumps to one foot high and wide. Bloom season: Pale pink nearly white flowers in summer. Exposure: Full shade.