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| Category: Bulb |
| Family: Oxalidaeceae (Wood-sorrels) |
| Origin: Mexico (North America) |
| Flower Color: Pink |
| Bloomtime: Spring/Summer |
| Synonyms: [O. tetraphylla speciosa] |
| Height: <1 foot |
| Width: <1 foot |
| Exposure: Sun or Shade |
| Irrigation (H2O Info): Medium Water Needs |
| Winter Hardiness: 10-15° F |
| May be Poisonous (More Info): Yes |
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Oxalis deppei 'Iron Cross' (Iron Cross Oxalis) - This bulb, sometimes grown for its edible tubers, is grown by most gardeners for its attractive leaves that are composed of 4 large leaflets that have a strong dark purplish band at their bases, forming a cross like design in the center of the leaf. The leaves that stand up 6 to 12 inches tall are otherwise a bright green that contrast well with this cross and in the summer into fall appear bright pink flowers. Plant in sun or part shade and give occasional to regular irrigation. This plant can remain hardy in frost free gardens and is hardy to around 10° F as a dormant bulb. This Mexican native was introduced into cultivation during the heyday of plant collecting in Victorian times and has proven itself garden worthy and non-invasive. The foliage, containing the poisonous Oxaloacetate, has a lemony taste that when used with moderation is not considered harmful and is often in foods cooked and fresh. Oxalis deppei is synonomized by some authors with Oxalis tetraphylla while others insist they are distinctly different plants. Until we get verifiable information to do differently we will continue to list it as Oxalis deppei, the name we originally received with it..
This description of this plant is based on our research and our observations of it growing at the nursery, in our own garden and in other gardens. We always appreciate receiving feedback of any kind from those who have any additional information about this plant, particularly if they disagree with what we have written or have additional cultural tips that would aid others growing Oxalis deppei 'Iron Cross' .
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