Oxalis versicolour 'Barbers Pole Oxalis' (WA Prohibited)

Oxalis versicolor, commonly called the Barber's Pole Oxalis, is native to the winter rainfall regions of South Africa, particularly the Western Cape. It grows in sandy, well-drained soils in open, sunny positions, becoming dormant in the hot, dry summer months.

This small, bulbous perennial produces slender stems bearing narrow, green leaflets divided into three parts. During the growing season, it forms funnel-shaped flowers with white petals edged in bright red. The petals are twisted in bud, creating a distinct spiral pattern that resembles a barber’s pole, a feature that remains visible even when the blooms are closed.

Flowering typically occurs in late autumn to spring, opening fully in bright sunlight and closing in low light or cloudy weather. In cultivation, it is often grown in pots to allow for easy movement between seasonal growing and dormant periods.

Care Tips:

• Light: Full sun is ideal for strong growth and flowering.
• Water: Water regularly during active growth; keep dry when dormant in summer.
• Humidity: Prefers low to moderate humidity.
• Media: Use a free-draining sandy or gritty potting mix.
• Fertiliser: Apply a diluted balanced fertiliser every 2–3 weeks during growth.
• Temperature: Best grown between 10–25 °C; protect from frost.
• Repotting: Repot bulbs during dormancy, refreshing the mix before replanting.