Oxalis palmifrons – Palm Leaf Oxalis with Rosette Growth

Palm-like Rosettes of Oxalis palmifrons

Oxalis palmifrons, known as the Palm Leaf Oxalis, is a striking species native to South Africa. This highly prized oxalis forms tight, palm-like rosettes and flourishes in cool climates. It blooms from late autumn with charming white flowers, though flowering is rare. Its unique leaf arrangement and cold-tolerant nature make it especially well-suited to temperate regions such as Melbourne.

Distinctive Features

• Rosette growth: Forms tight, symmetrical rosettes with finely divided leaves resembling miniature palm fronds.
• Seasonal flowering: Produces 4 cm white blooms sporadically in late autumn under optimal conditions.
• Cold requirement: Needs a period of winter chill for active growth, making it ideal for cooler gardens.

Care Tips

• Light: Best in full sun outdoors for a compact shape; tolerates bright indirect light indoors but growth may be looser.
• Water: Water during active growth; keep dry during dormancy in spring and summer.
• Humidity: Prefers dry to average humidity levels; avoid excess moisture during dormancy.
• Media: Use a well-drained sandy or gritty mix to prevent bulb rot.
• Temperature: Performs best with cool nights and mild days; not suitable for hot, humid climates.
• Fertiliser: Feed lightly during active growth with a low-nitrogen fertiliser once a month.
• Repotting: Best done in late summer before autumn growth begins; fresh media encourages new root formation.

Additional Notes

• Plants go dormant in spring, with leaves dying back as corms retreat underground.
• Not suited to warm indoor conditions unless placed by a cold window through winter.