How To Propagate Oxalis

The oxalis is an easy-to-grow houseplant that has clover-like green or purple leaves and blossoms in white, pink, red or yellow. Oxalis is native to South Africa and South America and is also called wood sorrel or shamrock plant because of the shape of the leaves. Propagate the oxalis plant by dividing the plant corms after the dormant season.

Step 1

Move the oxalis plant to a cool, dry location after blooming when the plant begins to die back. The plant will go into a dormant stage for one to three months. The purple-leaf variety will come out of dormancy after one month.

Step 2

Remove the plant from the growing container to divide the corms as soon as new growth appears. Gently separate the root corms by pulling them apart to create new plants.

Step 3

Plant the divided corms in growing containers with drainage holes. Fill the container with sterile potting soil that is airy for good drainage. Make sure the bulb is covered with soil equal to two times the height of the bulb.

Step 4

Water the plants well with warm water after planting to stimulate new growth. Water the plants once the top layer of soil becomes dry to the touch.

Step 5

Fertilize the plant with a water-soluble fertilizer and move it to a sunny location to continue plant growth. Continue to fertilize every two weeks during the growth period of the plant.