Understanding PAR and DLI Requirements for Oxalis Triangularis (Purple Shamrock)

Oxalis triangularis, often called the Purple Shamrock or Iron Cross Plant (铁十字芋), is admired for its deep purple leaves and delicate pink blooms.
Although it thrives in low to moderate light, maintaining the right balance of PAR and DLI is essential for strong coloration, compact growth, and healthy regrowth after dormancy.

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1. Early Growth / Sprouting Stage (Weeks 1–3)

Metric	Range	Notes
PAR (µmol·m⁻²·s⁻¹)	50–100	Gentle light helps new leaves unfurl without bleaching.
DLI (mol·m⁻²·day⁻¹)	4–6	Avoid direct sun; too much light can fade young foliage.

Tips:

• Use filtered sunlight or an LED lamp set to low intensity.
• Maintain even moisture and moderate humidity (~60%).

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2. Vegetative / Mature Foliage Stage (Weeks 3–10)

Metric	Range	Notes
PAR (µmol·m⁻²·s⁻¹)	100–200	Enhances leaf color contrast and supports dense growth.
DLI (mol·m⁻²·day⁻¹)	8–12	Moderate DLI maintains deep purple pigmentation.

Tips:

• Best results occur under bright indirect light (north or east-facing window).
• Avoid overexposure: direct sunlight can cause the leaves to curl or bleach.
• Keep photoperiod around 12–14 hours for consistent growth rhythm.

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3. Flowering Stage (Weeks 10–16)

Metric	Range	Notes
PAR (µmol·m⁻²·s⁻¹)	150–250	Stimulates flowering while maintaining leaf color.
DLI (mol·m⁻²·day⁻¹)	10–14	Prolongs blooming and keeps stems upright.

Tips:

• Gradually increase light exposure to promote buds.
• Ensure proper ventilation and avoid heat buildup near LEDs.
• Regular trimming after blooms helps renew the plant for another cycle.

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4. Dormancy Stage (After Flowering)

Metric	Range	Notes
PAR (µmol·m⁻²·s⁻¹)	<50	Allow gradual reduction of light before resting.
DLI (mol·m⁻²·day⁻¹)	<4	Supports the bulb’s natural rest phase.

Tips:

• When leaves yellow, reduce watering and move the pot to a shaded area.
• After 6–8 weeks, resume normal lighting to trigger regrowth.

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Summary Table

Growth Stage	PAR (µmol·m⁻²·s⁻¹)	DLI (mol·m⁻²·day⁻¹)	Lighting Type
Sprouting	50–100	4–6	Filtered or diffused
Vegetative	100–200	8–12	Bright indirect
Flowering	150–250	10–14	Moderate, consistent
Dormancy	<50	<4	Low / shaded

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Why Monitoring PAR and DLI Matters for Oxalis

Oxalis’ stunning purple color fades quickly under low light or burns under intense light.
By measuring PAR and DLI precisely using the AquaHorti AH-PARDLI Logger, you can:
Track real-time PAR and daily DLI accumulation
Identify light loss during cloudy or shaded hours
Maintain perfect coloration and steady growth year-round

The AH-PARDLI gives growers an easy way to visualize light balance — ensuring your Purple Shamrock stays vibrant and lively under any growing condition.