I Love Shamrocks!

As long as I'm being nostalgic this week, I thought I'd share one of my Oregonian favorites. I love shamrocks! My grandma always had African Violets and Shamrocks in the kitchen. They're so cheerful and lively- yes, lively!

[caption id="attachment_714" align="aligncenter" width="400" caption="My shamrocks love the light in my bathroom"][/caption]

[caption id="attachment_715" align="aligncenter" width="400" caption="I rotate them around the house. They're so lovely with the paint colors in my living room."][/caption]

[caption id="attachment_716" align="aligncenter" width="400" caption="My brother, Lane, keeps his shamrocks in front of his mural. See his interview on my blog tomorrow!"][/caption]

The leaves open and close with sunlight and the stems droop as soon as the soil is dry only to practically spring back to life with a little drink of water. The leaves are always seeking the brightest light so the stems literally turn towards the light if your twist the planter a little.

Properly named, Oxalis, you can find several types of shamrocks, including my favorite Oxalis Tiangularis- with purple leaves- and learn how to care for them (it's really easy) at Easy To Grow Bulbs and  Willow Creek Gardens.

I grew mine from bulbs, but you can find them in darling planters. A perfect "cheer up!" gift for any friend.