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Tuesday, May 05, 2009

The Shamrock

We have been growning a lovely Shamrock all winter in our kitchen with great success.
image , profile.
Yes, Steve Oxalis_regnellii is edible.

"The earliest reference to the shamrock was in the 5th century when St. Patrick used the shamrock to explain the Trinity to the Druids. There is no proof of knowing that this really happened, however, the shamrock continued to become a part of Irish legend and history. Today in Ireland, the three-lobed leaf is a symbol of Ireland and is proudly worn as a “good luck” badge on St. Patrick’s day."
"The “lucky clover” is not the same as the Shamrock plant sold at the grocery stores around St. Patrick’s day. The word shamrock is derived from Celtic word, “trefoil” (three-leafed), or “little clover”. Trifolium repens is the small white clover that is found in lawns and also used as a green manure cover crop. Irish experts consider this to be the true shamrock. Although, others may argue that the yellow flowered (Trifolium dubium) is the real deal. Both are difficult to grow indoors."
"The ones sold in grocery stores referred to as a “shamrock” belong to a large family of Oxalis with over 800 varieties, native to Chile and South Africa. They grow from small corms or tuberous roots which produce delicate, clover-like leaves that are light sensitive and close on cloudy days and at night (nyctinstic movements). The leaves range from a green to purple with flowers that come in a variety of colors; white, cream, yellow, pink, purple and red. Oxalis regnelli, sold as the shamrock plant, has white flowers and green foliage. "
"Another version, O. triangularis has purple leaves with pinkish to white flowers.
CARE Indoors - keep in a well-lit location (east or west window) away from hot and cold drafts at temperatures of 60-70F during the day and 55-65F at night. "
"They should be kept barely moist at all times and not allowed to stand in water as that will cause root rot. Fertilize every 2 -4 weeks with a houseplant fertilizer. The plant is relatively pest free and may be planted outdoors when the weather gets warm or kept as a houseplant. "
"After blooming, if the plant dies back, allow it to go dormant for 1-3 months. The corms should be kept cool and dry. After dormancy, repot and or divide the corms (optional). When signs of new growth emerge, begin to water, fertilize and move to a sunny spot. Oxalis regnelli and O.triangularis are hardy in zone 6-10. "
"There are hardier varieties that can be grown outdoors as a nice ground cover."
"Troubleshooting: Tall & lanky plant - needs more light, too warm (temps over 75)Yellowing plant - watering too much."
"May the luck of the Irish be with you!Happy St. Patty’s!!" Source: millersgh.com

Thanks Catherine.
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