We love an unproblematic queen. If you’re a lazy gardener like me and you want a happy little plant that will delight you for years to come with practically no effort, then you will love growing Oxalis triangularis, aka “False Shamrock.” This hardy plant looks like something straight out of Alice in Wonderland!

Oxalis triangularis is commonly grown as a houseplant but thrives outdoors in zones 8-11 and is definitely a beginner-friendly plant. I live in zone 8 (Dallas) and planted a small false shamrock in a garden bed many years ago. It has since spread – but not aggressively so – to beautifully fill in the space.

This magical plant has deep purple leaves (or green depending on that variety) that fold in at night and open in bright light and the sweetest white to light pink flowers that pop up above the foliage and look absolutely stunning against the vibrant purple leaves, which look a bit like butterfly wings. Flowering can last from early spring to late fall depending on your zone.

My Oxalis triangularis vanishes in the winter but pops back up in the spring. It’s often one of the first plants to bloom in my yard. The internet will tell you that it isn’t drought tolerant but don’t let that spook you. I’ve had no problems with it here in the Dallas heat. I do have it in a fairly shady bed though, so keep that in mind.

Oxalis triangularis grows about 12″ tall and spreads 12-24″. It also sends out tubers so you might find some new false shamrock plants popping up. Don’t panic though; it doesn’t spread super aggressively. I don’t know about you but I love free plants popping up in the garden!

I truly love growing Oxalis triangularis and I hope you do too! If you want a whimsical little plant to brighten up a garden bed that requires virtually no maintenance, false shamrock is for you.