Purple shamrock

Oxalis triangularis

leaf · flower

Purple triangular leaves and pink flowers with a tangy sorrel taste, a pinch in a salad.

Origin

Brazil

Where to find it

It is a house and garden plant, sold in garden centers for its purple leaves: pick it from your own untreated pots.

Season (United States)

May to September

Preparation

Rich in oxalates: a pinch for zest, not a bowlful, and avoid it with kidney stones. Its oxalates leach into water: boiling it and throwing the water out takes a good share with it.

Molecules

Beta-carotene (vitamin A) · Lutein and zeaxanthin · Vegetable nitrates · ChlorophyllWhat slows things down Oxalates

Did you know?

Its leaves fold up in the evening like butterfly wings.