Candy Cane Oxalis, scientifically known as Oxalis versicolor, is a beautiful plant that is often grown as an annual but is actually a bulbous perennial. This means that in its natural habitat, it will come back year after year, regrowing 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 year.
I have personally grown Candy Cane Oxalis both as a perennial and as an annual, depending on the climate I was in. In a warmer climate, where the winters are mild, this plant thrives and can be left in the ground year-round. It will die back in the winter but will regrow from the bulbs in the spring. It forms clumps and spreads gradually, creating a dense and bushy appearance.
In colder regions, where frost and freezing temperatures are common, Candy Cane Oxalis may not survive the winter if left outdoors. In these areas, it is best to dig up the bulbs in the fall before the first frost and store them indoors for the winter. This ensures the bulbs are protected from the cold and can be replanted in the following spring.
To store the bulbs, gently dig them up, being careful not to damage them. Remove any excess soil and allow them to dry for a few days in a cool, dry location. Once they are dry, store them in a cool, dark place, such as a basement or garage, in a container with good airflow. You can use paper bags or mesh bags to store the bulbs, ensuring they are not tightly packed together.
During the winter months, it is important to periodically check on the bulbs to make sure they are not rotting or drying out too much. If any bulbs show signs of rot or mold, remove them immediately to prevent it from spreading to the healthy bulbs.
In the spring, when the danger of frost has passed, you can replant the bulbs outdoors. Choose a location with well-draining soil and partial shade to full sun. Candy Cane Oxalis prefers moist soil but can tolerate some drought once established.
Once planted, the bulbs will sprout new foliage and eventually produce delicate, fine-textured leaves. The leaves of the Candy Cane Oxalis are green with distinctive red and white markings, resembling the stripes of a candy cane hence its common name.
Candy Cane Oxalis also produces small, pink or white flowers, adding to its visual appeal. These flowers bloom in late spring or early summer and can last for several weeks. They are a lovely addition to gardens, containers, or hanging baskets.
While Candy Cane Oxalis is a relatively low-maintenance plant, it can benefit from regular watering and occasional feeding with a balanced fertilizer to promote healthy growth. It is important to monitor for pests, such as aphids or spider mites, and treat them promptly if necessary.
Candy Cane Oxalis is a bulbous perennial that can be grown as an annual in colder regions. With proper care and attention, it can bring a splash of vibrant color and unique foliage to your garden or indoor space. Whether you choose to grow it as a perennial or an annual, it is sure to delight with its charming appearance.
