Candy Cane Oxalis , scientifically known as Oxalis versicolor , is a beautiful plant life that is often grown as an yearbook but is in reality a bulbous perennial . This means that in its natural home ground , it will hail back twelvemonth after year , regrow from its bulbs . However , in colder climates where it is not hardy ( typically USDA Zones 7 to 9 ) , it is often treated as an annual and replanted each yr .
I have personally grown Candy Cane Oxalis both as a perennial and as an annual , calculate on the climate I was in . In a warmer climate , where the winters are balmy , this plant prosper and can be go out in the ground year - round . It will become flat back in the winter but will regrow from the bulbs in the spring . It forms cluster and spreads step by step , creating a dense and bushy appearance .
In colder region , where Robert Frost and freeze temperatures are common , Candy Cane Oxalis may not survive the wintertime if provide alfresco . In these areas , it is well to fag up the electric-light bulb in the fall before the first frost and store them indoors for the winter . This see the incandescent lamp are protected from the cold and can be replant in the next spring .
To store the bulbs , gently fag them up , being careful not to damage them . Remove any excess soil and allow them to dry for a few day in a coolheaded , dry position . Once they are dry , store them in a cool , disconsolate lieu , such as a cellar or service department , in a container with good airflow . you may use paper bags or engagement bags to stash away the medulla , ensuring they are not tightly packed together .
During the winter months , it is important to periodically check on the bulbs to make certain they are not molder or drying out too much . If any bulb show signs of rot or mold , remove them right away to preclude it from spreading to the healthy bulbs .
In the spring , when the danger of frost has run , you’re able to replant the bulbs outdoors . Choose a position with well - run out soil and partial tad to full sun . Candy Cane Oxalis prefers moist soil but can permit some drought once established .
Once planted , the bulbs will stock new foliage and eventually produce frail , fine - textured leaf . The leaves of the Candy Cane Oxalis are greenish with classifiable red and white markings , resemble the stripes of a candy cane hence its rough-cut name .
Candy Cane Oxalis also acquire belittled , pink or white flowers , summate to its visual appeal . These flowers bloom in late spring or early summertime and can last for several weeks . They are a endearing addition to garden , container , or hang basket .
While Candy Cane Oxalis is a comparatively low - maintenance plant , it can benefit from even watering and occasional feeding with a balanced fertiliser to promote goodish growth . It is important to monitor for pests , such as aphids or spider speck , and treat them promptly if necessary .
Candy Cane Oxalis is a bulblike perennial that can be grow as an annual in cold regions . With right care and attention , it can bring a splashing of vivacious people of color and unique foliage to your garden or indoor space . Whether you choose to grow it as a recurrent or an yearly , it is trusted to delight with its magical appearance .
Caroline Bates
