Origin
Oxalis articulata Savigny ssp. rubra (St.-Hil.) Lourteig, also known as pink-sorrel or wood-sorrel, is a herbaceous perennial plant that belongs to the Oxalidaceae family. The plant is native to South America, specifically Brazil, Uruguay, and Argentina. Pink-sorrel prefers to grow in a humid environment and can thrive in a variety of soil types, from sandy to loamy.
Common Names
Oxalis articulata is commonly known as pink-sorrel or wood-sorrel due to its characteristic three-lobed leaves that resemble the shape of a clover. It is also referred to as 'oca rosada' in Spanish and 'trevo-azedinho' in Portuguese.
Uses
Indigenous South Americans have traditionally used pink-sorrel for its medicinal properties. The plant has been used to treat various ailments, such as urinary tract infections, indigestion, and fever. The leaves of pink-sorrel are high in vitamin C, and the tubers are a source of carbohydrates and other important nutrients. In recent times, pink-sorrel has gained popularity as an ornamental plant in gardens and landscapes.
General Appearance
Pink-sorrel is a low-growing plant that can reach up to 40 cm in height. It has a creeping rhizome that allows it to spread rapidly, forming a dense ground cover. The leaves are trifoliate, meaning they have three leaflets that are usually green but can occasionally have reddish hues. The flowers are small, pink, and bloom in spring and summer. The fruit is a cylindrical capsule containing tiny seeds that can be dispersed by the wind. Pink-sorrel's tubers can be eaten raw or cooked and are usually yellow or pink in color.
Light
Oxalis articulata Savigny ssp. rubra, commonly known as Pink Sorrel, thrives in full sunlight. The plant prefers bright light but can also survive in partially shaded areas without problems. However, excessive shading might lead to sparse foliage and slowed growth.
Temperature
The Pink Sorrel thrives in a wide range of temperatures and can tolerate heat reasonably well. However, temperatures exceeding 85°F might lead to wilted foliage and a general stunted appearance. The ideal temperature for the plant is between 55°F and 75°F.
Soil
The plant is not too particular about the type of soil it grows in, but it prefers well-drained soils. Ideally, the soil should be loamy or sandy to enhance drainage. A pH range of 6 to 7.5 is ideal for the Pink Sorrel. Adding organic matter to the soil can also enhance drainage and promote healthy growth.
Cultivation Methods
Oxalis articulata Savigny ssp. rubra (St.-Hil.) Lourteig grows best in well-drained soils with plenty of organic matter. The plant thrives in partial shade and prefers cool temperatures. When planting, ensure that the bulbs are about 5cm deep, and spaced about 15cm apart. Ensure that the soil is moist and that there are no weeds around the plant.
Watering Needs
Oxalis articulata Savigny ssp. rubra (St.-Hil.) Lourteig requires moderate watering. The soil should be kept moist during the growing season but avoid waterlogging the plant. During hot weather, ensure to water the plant thoroughly to keep it alive. Irrigation should be minimized during winter, as the plant is dormant. Overwatering may lead to root rot, which can cause the plant to die.
Fertilization
It is best to fertilize Oxalis articulata Savigny ssp. rubra (St.-Hil.) Lourteig during the growing season. Apply a balanced NPK fertilizer every three weeks at a rate of one tablespoon per gallon of water. Avoid over-fertilizing as this may lead to excessive growth, which can cause the plant to become leggy. It is essential to follow the manufacturer's instructions when applying fertilizer.
Pruning
Pruning of Oxalis articulata Savigny ssp. rubra (St.-Hil.) Lourteig is minimal. Deadheading should be done regularly by removing spent flowers to encourage new blooms. Trimming of the plant should be done after the flowering period to shape the plant and remove any dead or diseased leaves. Ensure to use clean pruning tools to prevent the spread of any diseases.
Propagation Methods
Oxalis articulata Savigny ssp. rubra (St.-Hil.) Lourteig, commonly known as pink wood sorrel, can be propagated through several methods such as seed germination, stem cuttings, and division.
Seed Germination
To propagate Oxalis articulata through seeds, collect them from mature plants in the fall. Sow the seeds in a pot or tray filled with well-draining potting mix. Cover the seeds with a thin layer of soil and water gently. Place the container in a warm, bright spot. The seeds will germinate in two to three weeks. Once the seedlings have grown a few leaves, transplant them to individual pots filled with fresh potting mix.
Stem Cuttings
Propagation through stem cuttings is the easiest and fastest method. In late spring, select healthy stems and cut 3-4 inches from the tip, just below a leaf node. Remove the lower leaves and dip the cut end in rooting hormone powder. Insert the cutting into a pot filled with moist, well-draining potting mix. Keep the cutting in a bright, but not direct sunlight and water it when the soil surface feels dry. The cutting will root and start developing new leaves within two to four weeks.
Division
Division is a useful method to propagate Oxalis articulata in late summer or early fall when the plant has become large enough to be divided. Gently remove the plant from the pot and shake off the excess soil. Gently pull apart the roots and separate the plant into smaller sections. Each section should have at least one healthy stem and a good root system. Repot each division into fresh potting mix and water thoroughly.
Disease Management
Oxalis articulata Savigny ssp. rubra (St.-Hil.) Lourteig is very resistant to diseases. However, some diseases that might affect the plant include:
- Gray mold: This fungus causes grayish mold on leaves and stems, which can lead to plant death. It can be prevented by ensuring proper ventilation and avoiding overwatering. Treatment involves pruning affected areas and applying fungicide.
- Root rot: This is caused by a fungus and can be identified by yellowing and wilting leaves. It is caused by overwatering or poor drainage. Management includes reducing watering frequency and applying fungicide.
Pest Management
Oxalis articulata Savigny ssp. rubra (St.-Hil.) Lourteig is also generally resistant to pests. However, here are some pests that can affect the plant:
- Spider mites: These tiny pests suck sap from the plant, leading to yellowing and wilting leaves. They are common in dry conditions. You can prevent and manage spider mites by increasing humidity around the plant and applying insecticidal soap.
- Mealybugs: These insects attach themselves to the stems and leaves and suck sap from the plant. This leads to wilting and yellowing of the plant. Prevention and management involve removing infected plant parts and applying insecticidal soap regularly.
- Slugs and snails: These pests eat holes in the leaves and can cause extensive damage. To manage this, you can use a slug and snail bait or manually remove them from the plant.
