The Oxalis ‘Velvet Sunset’ is a captivating plant known for its striking foliage and delicate flowers. This ornamental houseplant offers visual appeal with its changing hues throughout the seasons. Its relatively easy care makes it a rewarding choice for many plant enthusiasts.
Unique Characteristics
Oxalis ‘Velvet Sunset’ is distinguished by its dynamic foliage, which shifts in color from orange and pink to copper, mellowing to a lighter green in summer and deep magenta in autumn. This plant features succulent, reddish stems that support leaves with three ovate leaflets, resembling shamrocks. A notable habit of this Oxalis is its nyctinastic movement, where the leaves fold down at night or in low light, reopening with the return of brightness. Small, bright yellow flowers emerge from spring through autumn, adding a cheerful contrast to the rich leaf tones.
Care Guide
This plant prefers bright, indirect light, which enhances its vibrant foliage. Excessive direct sunlight can scorch the leaves, while insufficient light may diminish their coloration.
Allow the top inch or two of soil to dry out between waterings. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so proper drainage is important. Conversely, underwatering can cause wilting and brown leaf tips, indicating a need for more consistent moisture.
A well-draining potting mix is ideal, such as one containing peat moss, perlite, and compost, to provide both drainage and nutritional support. Maintain average room temperatures between 18°C and 24°C (65°F and 75°F). The plant appreciates moderate humidity, achievable through misting or a humidity tray.
During the active growing season (spring and summer), feed the plant monthly with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer. Follow manufacturer’s instructions to ensure adequate nutrients without over-fertilization. Fertilizing during dormancy is not necessary.
Dormancy Period
Oxalis ‘Velvet Sunset’ naturally enters a period of dormancy, typically in winter for summer-growing varieties. During this phase, the foliage may die back as the plant rests to conserve energy.
To prepare for dormancy, gradually reduce watering as leaves yellow and wither, and stop fertilizing. Store the plant, with its bulbs or rhizomes still in the soil, in a cool, dark, dry location away from freezing temperatures. Once new growth appears in spring, gradually reintroduce water and light to encourage emergence from dormancy.
Propagating Oxalis Velvet Sunset
Multiplying Oxalis ‘Velvet Sunset’ is straightforward, primarily through rhizome division or stem cuttings. The plant grows rhizomes, which can be separated to create new plants. When propagating by division, carefully unpot the mature plant and gently separate the rhizomes, ensuring each section has at least one growth point. Plant these divisions a few centimeters deep in well-draining soil, spaced about 2-4 centimeters apart.
Stem cuttings also offer a viable propagation method. Select healthy stems and cut segments that include several nodes. Remove lower leaves to expose the nodes, where new roots will form. Cuttings can be rooted in water, with roots typically appearing within a few weeks, or directly in a light, well-drained soil mix.
Common Issues and Solutions
Leggy growth, characterized by stretched stems and sparse foliage, often indicates insufficient light. Moving the plant to a brighter location with indirect light can promote more compact growth.
Wilting can signal either overwatering or underwatering. Check soil moisture before watering; if consistently wet, reduce frequency, and if dry, increase it. Ensuring the pot has drainage holes and using a well-draining soil mix prevents waterlogging.
Pest infestations, such as spider mites and mealybugs, can affect Oxalis. Spider mites may cause yellowing leaves and fine webbing, while mealybugs appear as cotton-like clusters on stems and leaf axils. Increasing humidity deters spider mites. Both pests can be managed by wiping them off with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol or using insecticidal soap.
Is Oxalis Velvet Sunset Toxic?
Oxalis ‘Velvet Sunset’ contains soluble oxalate crystals, which can be toxic if ingested. These compounds, found throughout the plant, can bind with calcium in the body, potentially leading to a sudden drop in calcium levels.
While the bitter taste may deter pets from consuming large quantities, ingestion can still cause adverse effects. Symptoms of poisoning include drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, weakness, and tremors. In severe cases, kidney damage or acute renal failure can occur, particularly if significant amounts are eaten. Keep Oxalis ‘Velvet Sunset’ out of reach of pets and small children to prevent accidental ingestion.