Oxalis versicolor L.

Horticultural & Botanical History

‘The Oxalis versicolor is considered as one of the most beautiful of the many species cultivated in gardens; and, though well known to, and described by several of the older Botanists, has graced our collections but a few years, being introduced to the Royal Garden at Kew, from the Cape (where, as well as in Ethiopia, it grows spontaneously) by Mr. Masson, in the Year 1774.

Many of this genus flower early in the spring, the season in which this species also puts forth its blossoms, but by dexterous management it may be made to flower during most of the year; and this is effected by placing the pea-like tubera or knobs which the root sends forth, and by which the plant is propagated, in pots filled with loam and bog-earth at stated distant periods.

Like most of the Cape plants, it is well adapted to the greenhouse, and succeeds best when placed on a front shelf of the house, where it can have plenty of light and air; some keep it in the stove, but there the plant is drawn up, and the flowers lose a part of their brilliancy: In no situation do they ever expand but when the sun shines on them; this is the less to be regretted, as they are most beautiful when closed.’  [BM t.155/1791]. 

‘This old greenhouse plant was introduced into this country many years ago, and it merits a place in every one.  It forms a spreading, branching, somewhat bushy plant if properly tied up; or if left loose will hang over the side of the pot.’  [FC p.220/1853].  The plant as figured in Flore des Serres is much more brightly coloured than the plant generally grown today, the edges of the petals crimson at the back and pink inside, the colour still visible when open.  [FS f.834/1853].  

History at Camden Park

Listed in all published catalogues [B.381/1843].

Notes