Candy Cane Sorrel – Oxalis Versicolor

The Candy Cane Sorrel is a perennial bulbous plant from the Oxalidaceae family. It has the Latin name Oxalis versicolor and is native to South Africa. Its showy blooms that bloom from midsummer through to fall have been praised for its unique color combination, displaying a dazzling contrast of red and white. It has been given the RHS award in recognition of its beauty. This vibrant perennial enjoys full sun to part shade, making it perfect for both outdoors in the garden and potting inside.

How to Plant and Grow Candy Cane Sorrel

Candy Cane Sorrel is a fairly easy plant to grow, but there are a few important factors to consider when it comes to planting and caring for it. First, the soil needs to be light and well-drained, preferably with an acidic pH of 6.5 to 7. In its native South Africa, it is found growing in sandy soils, so it’s best to mimic this environment for the best growth of your plant. It will thrive in full sun to lightly shaded areas so a spot in your garden that receives only a few hours of direct sunlight is also suitable. Lastly, it is an drought-tolerant plant, so only water it when the soil begins to dry out.

Meaning and Symbolism

The Candy Cane Sorrel has an interesting etymology associated with its Latin name, Oxalis Versicolor. Oxalic means “acidic” and Versicolor means “variegated colors”, referencing the plant’s colors from white to red. It was given the common name ‘Candy Cane’ in acknowledgement of the swirls of colors resembling that of a traditional candy from the holidays.

History, Mythology, and Religious Significance

In South African folklore, the Candy Cane Sorrel is believed to bring good luck and symbolize a hopeful sign for the coming year. It is associated with the idea of new beginnings, love, joy, faith, and loyalty among other positive sentiments. In several parts of the country, it is a custom to grow these flowers in the home during the holidays in celebration of the blessings coming in the New Year.

Flower Varieties and Their Defining Characteristics

The Candy Cane Sorrel is composed of many varieties, differentiated by their sizes, colors, and blooms. One of the most common is the Oxalis Versicolor Candy Cane, which is a dwarf perennial that grows to about 10 inches high and wide. Its flowers are white and red, creating striking patterns much like the snack. Other varieties of the same species include the Oxalis Triangularis Versicolor, which is a bright pink, and the Oxalis Versicolor Magnifica which has petals that display a light yellow hue.

How to Pot and Repot

When it comes to potting a Candy Cane Sorrel, the best potting soil to use the one that is lightweight and filled with organic material and well-drained. The pot must have at least one drainage hole to allow excess water to pass through and away from the roots. Choose a pot large enough to accommodate the plant’s root mass as it grows, usually a 6-inch or a 7-inch pot. When it comes time to repot, wait until the growth of the container is lagging to repot your Candy Cane Sorrel in a larger container.

How to Prune

Candy Cane Sorrel generally does not require much pruning however, it is still important to prune away dead or discolored foliage and stem ends that have gone dry. To keep your plant compact and full of blooms, trim back the stems after they have finished flowering. Deadheading (removing spent flowers) to encourage reblooming is another important pruning technique. Trim away any foliage that looks or feels discolored, yellow or brown, because this is a sign of disease.

How to Propagate

Candy Cane Sorrel is best propagated through division as it is a perennial plant. In the spring after the last frost, identify the clumps that have grown too large and carefully dig up the tuber clumps, along with their roots. Wash the clumps gently to reveal the natural growth pattern that makes up the bulb. Break them apart and remove any broken or diseased parts, then replant the healthy tuber clumps. Make sure to plant it correctly, using the same soil and light requirements.

Common Pests and Diseases

Candy Cane Sorrel is mostly pest and disease free, but there are certain pests and diseases that can harm your plant. Common pests include slugs, aphids, cabbage worms, and mites that can cause damage to the foliage. Diseases to watch out for are root rot, which is caused by over watering, and leaf spot, which can discolor and deform the leaves.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How long do Candy Cane Sorrels bloom?
A: Candy Cane Sorrels usually bloom from midsummer to fall. In colder regions, they usually bloom earlier in the summer.

Q: Can Candy Cane Sorrel be grown indoors?
A: Yes, Candy Cane Sorrels can be grown indoors in a pot, as long as they are kept in a sunny spot and are provided with ample well-draining soil.

Q: How often should Candy Cane Sorrels be watered?
A: Candy Cane Sorrels should be watered thoroughly and deeply but only when the soil starts to look dry. Water them about once a week or once every two weeks. Make sure not to overwater as this can cause root rot.

Table Fact Sheet

Candy Cane Sorrel	Oxalis Versicolor
Family	Oxalidaceae
Plant Type	Perennial
Mature Size	10 inches (h) x 10 inches (w)
Sun Exposure	Full Sun to Part Shade
Soil Type	Light and Well-Drained
Soil pH	6.5 to 7
Bloom Time	Midsummer to Fall
Flower Color	White and Red
Hardiness Zones	7-11
Native Area	South Africa