Overview
Oxalis abyssinica is a flowering plant that belongs to the Oxalidaceae family. It is a perennial herb that is native to eastern and southern Africa. This plant is popular for its decorative leaves and beautiful flowers, which make it suitable for gardening and landscaping activities.
Common Names
Oxalis abyssinica is known by several common names, depending on the region or language. Some of the popular names include African wood sorrel, Ethiopian sorrel, Boga, Insogolo, Gewane and Tenaadam.
Appearance
Oxalis abyssinica has a unique and attractive appearance which makes it an excellent ornamental plant. It has a bushy growth habit, with leaves that are trifoliate and bright green in color. The flowers are star-shaped and range from pink to purple, and appear on thin stems above the foliage. The plant grows up to a height of 30 – 60cm, and its narrow and shamrock-like leaves grow up to 2.5 – 4 cm wide.
Uses
Oxalis abyssinica has several uses, both medicinal and culinary. The plant has been used for centuries in traditional medicine to treat various ailments such as headaches, fever, and stomach upset. In some cultures, the leaves are boiled and used as a vegetable in soups and stews. Additionally, this plant is used as a natural dye to color clothes and crafts.
Light Requirements
Oxalis abyssinica, commonly referred to as African wood sorrel, requires moderate to bright light conditions for optimal growth. If the plant is grown indoors, then it should be placed in a location where it can receive direct sunlight for at least 4-6 hours a day. In outdoor settings, it should be grown in partial shade to protect the leaves from getting scorched by the sun.
Temperature Requirements
The ideal temperature range for the growth of Oxalis abyssinica is between 18°C to 24°C. The plant can withstand slightly higher temperatures, but anything above 30°C will cause stress to the plant, leading to stunted growth. At temperatures below 15°C, the plant will also experience stunted growth. In winter, it is best to keep the plant in a heated greenhouse or indoors to protect it from the low temperatures.
Soil Requirements
Oxalis abyssinica prefers well-draining soil with a pH range of 6.0-7.5. The soil should be rich in organic matter and have good aeration to allow for healthy root development. The plant will tolerate sandy and loamy soil, but it does not do well in poorly drained soil. It is recommended to amend the soil with compost or well-rotted manure before planting to improve its fertility and drainage.
Cultivation Methods for Oxalis abyssinica
Oxalis abyssinica is a relatively easy plant to cultivate. It thrives in warm and humid environments, making it suitable for gardens and indoor pots.
The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic material. Before planting, ensure that the soil is thoroughly mixed with compost and sand.
The seeds should be planted at a depth of 1-2 cm and watered lightly. Keep the soil moist during the germination period, and seedlings should start to appear within 2-3 weeks.
Watering Needs for Oxalis abyssinica
Oxalis abyssinica requires moderate watering. The soil should be moist but not soaked. Over-watering can lead to root rot, which can damage the plant.
Water the plant once or twice a week, depending on the weather. During hot and dry seasons, the plant may require more frequent watering.
Fertilization for Oxalis abyssinica
Fertilize the plant every four weeks during the growing period. Use a balanced fertilizer with an N-P-K ratio of 10-10-10.
Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can lead to excessive growth and make the plant susceptible to diseases.
Pruning Oxalis abyssinica
Pruning is not necessary for Oxalis abyssinica. However, removing diseased or damaged leaves can promote healthy growth.
Trimming back the plant after it has finished flowering can also help stimulate new growth and promote a more compact form.
Propagation of Oxalis abyssinica
Oxalis abyssinica is a beautiful perennial plant that is popular for its attractive foliage and delicate pink flowers. Propagation of this plant can be easily done through various methods such as division, seeds and rhizomes.
Division
Division is the easiest and most common way to propagate Oxalis abyssinica. The best time to divide the plant is in spring or autumn when the plant is actively growing. Carefully remove the entire plant from the soil and gently untangle the roots. Use a sharp, clean knife or scissors to separate the roots into smaller sections. Ensure that each section has a healthy root system and at least one stem. Replant the divided sections in separate pots or in different areas of your garden.
Seeds
Propagation of Oxalis abyssinica can also be done through seeds. Collect the seeds from the seed pods during the winter, once the pods have turned brown and dry. Sow the seeds in seed trays or directly in the soil, covering them with a thin layer of compost or soil. Keep the soil moist and in a warm, well-lit area. The seeds should germinate in about two to four weeks.
Rhizomes
Rhizomes are underground stems that can also be used to propagate Oxalis abyssinica. Dig up the rhizomes in early spring or autumn. Cut the rhizomes into small pieces, ensuring that each section has at least one growing point. Plant the rhizome pieces just below the soil surface, covering them with a thin layer of compost. Keep the soil moist and in a warm, well-lit area. The rhizomes should start producing new shoots in about two to three weeks.
Disease and Pest Management for Oxalis Abyssinica
Oxalis abyssinica is a relatively low-maintenance plant that doesn't experience many disease or pest problems. However, there are a few common issues that gardeners should be aware of and know how to manage.
Common Diseases
One common issue that can impact Oxalis abyssinica is root rot. This fungal disease can occur when the plant is overwatered or when it is planted in poorly drained soil. To prevent root rot, gardeners should ensure that the plant has good drainage and should be cautious not to overwater it. If root rot does occur, it can be challenging to treat. Gardeners should remove any affected plant material and transplant the remaining healthy plant into fresh soil.
Leaf spot is another disease that can affect Oxalis abyssinica. This bacterial infection can cause brown spots to appear on the plant's leaves, leading to leaf drop. Gardeners should remove any affected leaves and ensure that the plant has good air circulation to prevent the disease from spreading. Copper-based fungicides can also be used to treat leaf spot.
Common Pests
The most common pest that affects Oxalis abyssinica is the aphid. These small, soft-bodied insects suck sap from the plant's leaves and stems, causing them to yellow and wilt. To manage aphids, gardeners can spray the plant with a strong jet of water or use insecticidal soap. Ladybugs and lacewings are also beneficial insects that can eat aphids and help manage their population.
Mites can also be a problem for Oxalis abyssinica. These tiny arachnids can cause yellowing and stippling on the plant's leaves. To control mites, gardeners can use a miticide or insecticidal soap.
Conclusion
While there are a few diseases and pests that can affect Oxalis abyssinica, they are relatively easy to manage with proper care and attention. Gardeners should be cautious not to overwater the plant, ensure it has good drainage, and monitor for any signs of disease or infestation. By taking these steps, gardeners can enjoy healthy, vibrant Oxalis abyssinica plants.
