The shape of the individual leaflets on the trifoliate leaves (they come in threes) are triangular. Each of the three triangles directs one of its points to the center of the leaf, where they all meet at one small hub; likewise, each thrusts out a broadside to form the interrupted leaf perimeter.
Among the bigger leaves on a purple shamrock plant, each of these broadsides can measure 3.5 inches in length. The visual effect is one of floppiness. It is as if one were gazing at a butterfly that had a third wing. An oddity worth noting is that their leaflets fold down toward the stem at night, then rise again the next day. The leaflets of purple shamrocks "pucker down" as night falls.
Flowers do emerge out of the mounding clumps, although, competing against the striking leaves, the blooms are bound to take a back seat. The trumpet-shaped blossoms are very light pink in color.
Light
This colorful plant is best grown in partial shade. Bright sun will be too much for this plant.
Soil
Grow in well-drained soil. If you are growing it in the ground, make compost (if you do not already have some), so that you can work it into the ground to loosen the soil and provide nutrients.
Water
Water adequately to get them established, after which point their water needs are minimal.
Temperature and Humidity
This plant thrives in moderate temperatures. It will grow best when daytime temperatures do not exceed 75 degrees Fahrenheit and nighttime temperatures are between 50 and 65 degrees Fahrenheit.
Fertilizer
A little compost should be all the feeding the purple shamrock requires. Even that is not necessary for these easy to care for plants.
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