Overview
Oxalis acetosella L. ssp. montana (Raf.) Hultén ex D. Löve, commonly known as the mountain wood sorrel, is a perennial herbaceous plant that belongs to the family Oxalidaceae. Native to North America, this plant is commonly found in cool, moist, and shady areas like forests.
Appearance
The mountain wood sorrel has a distinct shamrock-like appearance, with three heart-shaped leaves that are usually green on the upper surface and purplish on the underside. Each leaf is about 1-3 cm in length and has a unique clover-like cleft. The leaves grow in clusters and form an umbrella-like canopy. The flowers, which bloom in the spring and summer, are white or pink in color with five petals and a yellow center. The fruit is a five-chambered capsule that contains numerous small seeds.
Common Names
The mountain wood sorrel is known by several common names, including Appalachian woodsorrel, wood shamrock, and sourgrass.
Uses
The mountain wood sorrel has been used traditionally by Native Americans for medicinal purposes. The leaves and stems contain a high amount of vitamin C and have been used by Native Americans to treat scurvy. They have also been used to treat urinary tract infections, fever, and stomach ailments. The plant has a sour, lemon-like taste, which makes it an excellent addition to salads and other food dishes.
Light Requirements
Oxalis acetosella L. ssp. montana (Raf.) Hultén ex D. Löve typically grows in areas with filtered sunlight or partial shade. It cannot withstand full sun exposure. In its natural habitat, it grows under the canopy of trees and thrives in areas with dappled sunlight, such as along the edges of woodlands.
Temperature Requirements
As a cool-season plant, Oxalis acetosella L. ssp. montana (Raf.) Hultén ex D. Löve grows best in a cool and moist environment. Its native range includes areas with a cool and humid climate, such as the northern regions of North America and Europe. The plant can tolerate a wide range of temperatures, from as low as -40°C (-40°F) to as high as 25°C (77°F), but it grows best when the temperature ranges from 7°C (45°F) to 18°C (64°F).
Soil Requirements
The plant prefers acidic soils that are moist, well-drained, and rich in organic matter. A soil pH of 5.5 to 6 is ideal. It grows well in loamy soils that are rich in nutrients but can also tolerate clay soils. The plant does not do well in drought-prone areas and requires consistent moisture to thrive. Overhead watering is the preferred irrigation method, but care should be taken to avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot.
Cultivation Methods
Oxalis acetosella L. ssp. montana (Raf.) Hultén ex D. Löve is a perennial plant that thrives in moist, cool, and shady locations. It requires well-draining soil with a pH range of 4 to 6.5. The plant can be propagated by division or from seeds. The best time for dividing the plant is in the fall or early spring, while the best time for sowing the seeds is in the late fall or early spring.
Watering Needs
The plant requires consistent moisture in the soil, and the soil should never be allowed to dry out completely. Care must be taken to avoid overwatering as well, as this can cause root rot. The plant may require more frequent watering in hot and dry weather, and less frequent watering in cooler and wet weather.
Fertilization
Oxalis acetosella L. ssp. montana (Raf.) Hultén ex D. Löve does not require heavy fertilization. However, applying compost or a balanced fertilizer in the fall or early spring can benefit the plant's growth. Applying a slow-release fertilizer during the growing season can also be helpful.
Pruning
Pruning is not necessary for the plant's health but can be done to promote bushier growth and a fuller appearance. Deadheading spent flowers can also encourage more blooming. However, it is essential to wait until the plant has finished flowering before pruning or deadheading.
Propagation Methods of Oxalis acetosella L. ssp. montana (Raf.) Hultén ex D. Löve
Oxalis acetosella L. ssp. montana (Raf.) Hultén ex D. Löve can be propagated through several methods.
Division
Division is one of the easiest ways to propagate Oxalis acetosella L. ssp. montana (Raf.) Hultén ex D. Löve. The plant produces small bulbs underground, which can be divided and transplanted in early spring while the plant is still dormant. Carefully dig up the plant and gently separate the bulbs before replanting them at the same depth.
Seed Propagation
Seed propagation is another way to propagate Oxalis acetosella L. ssp. montana (Raf.) Hultén ex D. Löve. Seeds can be collected in the fall and sown immediately, or stored in a cool, dry place until the following spring. Sow the seeds in a well-draining soil mix and keep the soil moist until the seeds germinate. Once they have germinated, thin them out as necessary.
Cutting Propagation
Cutting propagation is possible but can be more difficult. Take stem cuttings in late spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing. Make sure the cutting is about 10cm long and has at least a few sets of leaves. Dip the cut end of the stem into some rooting hormone and plant in well-draining soil. Keep the soil moist and in a warm, humid environment until roots form.
Disease Management
Fungal leaf spots, powdery mildew, and root rot are common diseases that can affect Oxalis acetosella L. ssp. montana. To manage fungal leaf spots, remove and destroy infected leaves, avoid overhead watering, and apply copper-based fungicides. For powdery mildew, improve air circulation around the plant, avoid overhead watering, and apply sulfur-based fungicides. Root rot can be prevented by using well-drained soil and avoiding overwatering.
Pest Management
Spider mites, slugs, and aphids are common pests that can affect Oxalis acetosella L. ssp. montana. To manage spider mites, increase humidity around the plant, avoid over-fertilizing, and apply insecticidal soap. For slugs, handpick them at night or use slug baits. For aphids, use a strong stream of water to wash them off the plant or apply insecticidal soap or neem oil.
