Shamrock Oxalis
Oxalis articulata
Last reviewed: June 2026
Shamrock Oxalis is toxic to dogs and cats.
Listed as toxic by the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (last reviewed 2026-05-21). If your pet has been exposed, call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435and your veterinarian's emergency line.
Pollinator Patch flags toxic plants so you can choose a pet-safe native alternative for your yard.
Light
full sun
Water
medium
Size
6"–12" H × 8"–16" W
Bloom
Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug
Native to
NC
Pollinators
bees, butterflies
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Shamrock oxalis is a low-growing perennial with distinctive three-leaflet clover-like foliage and pink flowers that bloom from spring through summer. This compact plant forms neat mounds and spreads gradually to create attractive groundcover patches.
In an HOA neighborhood
Shamrock Oxalis takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: low. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Often considered a weed due to clover-like appearance
- Can spread aggressively and become invasive
- May be confused with common lawn weeds
Wildlife value
The long blooming period from April through August provides nectar for bees and butterflies throughout the growing season.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Pollinator Patch flags toxic plants like Shamrock Oxalis and shows pet-safe natives for your ecoregion instead.