This hardy, clump-forming Mexican wildflower is popular with pollinators. It grows to 15cm tall and 20cm across in full sun or partial shade in a well-drained soil or pot. Avoid parts of the garden that get water-logged in winter.
It's soft pink flowers are produced from June to August and the striking purple and green leaves last even longer appearing in mid-spring until the first frosts in autumn / winter.
We recommend marking where you have planted this one as it dies down completely over winter before reappearing around April time.
Iron Cross / Oxalis tetraphylla
Position: Flower border / Container
Flowering months: Jul / Aug
Light: Full sun / Mix of sun and shade
Soil: Loam / Sand
Tested in our local soil (t.i.o.l.s.): Yes (but avoid heavy clay)
Drainage: Well drained / Moist but well-drained (never waterlogged)
Life cycle: Perennial (lives for many years)
Hardiness: Fully hardy (in Bristol winters)
Over winter: Dies back (deciduous)