Oxalis regnellii 'Silverado'

Perennial that develops via underground rhizomes, fast growing, very long flowering, with small bell-shaped flowers and triangular leaves shaded with silver in the centre.

Ornamental clover leaves.
The leaves and flowers close at night, taking the shape of a closed, wrapped umbrella. Oxalis derives from the Greek word 'Oxis' which means 'Acid', referring to the acidity of its leaves.

Classification
Common name: Clover, False Sorrel, Triangular Oxsalis.
Genus and species: Oxalis regnellii
Cultivar: 'Silverado'
Family: Oxalidaceae.

Characteristics
Description of flowers: Small, but numerous bell-shaped flowers with five petals.
Flower color: White, slightly pink when ripe,
Flowering period: From June to October.
Leaves: Ornamental clover-shaped, supported by slender succulent stems, which catch the eye thanks to their central variegation and triangle shape. The variegation is evident if grown in the shade, in the sun the leaves turn green.
Perfume: -
Dimensions: Height 20-30 cm, they progressively widen.

Cultivation
Exposure: Partial shade (morning sun, patchy shade), bright shade. It can stay in the intense sun, but in the hottest central hours, the leaves and flowers close, as at night, to avoid excessive transpiration.
Soil: Very well drained, even poor.
Irrigation: As needed; mostly in the summer.
Frost resistance: USDA 8; evergreen above 9°C.

Care
Pruning: It loses the aerial part when frost arrives, so at the beginning of winter or early spring, the dry parts can be cut right down to the ground. Remove faded stems gradually during the growing season and any damaged or marked leaves.
Propagation: They are propagated by dividing the rhizomes in spring.

Notes of interest
Use in the kitchen: The leaves and flowers have a lemon flavor, suitable decorative for salads. The acidity is due to oxalic acid, also present in rhubarb and spinach. They can be eaten raw or cooked. The roots are also slightly acidic and are edible, cooked or raw, although they are not as good as the leaves and flowers. Be careful that consuming large quantities is harmful, as they contain oxalic acid.