Oxalis flava

Oxalis flava is a bulbous perennial native to the winter rainfall regions of South Africa, particularly the Western Cape. It grows in sandy, well-drained soils in open, sunny locations and becomes dormant during the hot, dry summer months, reshooting with the onset of cooler weather and seasonal rains.

Plants form neat clumps of slender stems topped with trifoliate leaves, each leaflet narrow and bright green. During the growing season, it produces clusters of funnel-shaped, golden-yellow flowers that open in full sunlight and close in low light or cloudy weather. The blooms are held just above the foliage, creating a dense floral display during peak flowering.

Flowering typically occurs from late autumn through winter, sometimes extending into spring in mild climates. The combination of long-lasting blooms and compact growth makes it a suitable choice for pots, rockeries, and winter bulb collections.

Care Tips:

• Light: Full sun is required for healthy growth and abundant flowering.
• Water: Water regularly during active growth; keep completely dry in summer dormancy.
• Humidity: Prefers low humidity.
• Media: Use a sandy, free-draining potting mix.
• Fertiliser: Feed every 2–3 weeks in the growing season with a diluted balanced fertiliser.
• Temperature: Best grown between 10–25 °C; protect from frost.
• Repotting: Lift and replant bulbs during dormancy, refreshing the mix before the next cycle.