Origin
Oxalis capillacea E.Mey. ex Sond. is native to South Africa.
Common Names
This plant is commonly known as the Pink Sorrel or the Fine-leaved Wood Sorrel.
Uses
The Pink Sorrel has been traditionally used in South Africa as a medicinal plant to treat various ailments such as scurvy, coughs and colds, stomach ache, and headaches. It has also been used as a decorative plant, where its small and delicate pinkish-white flowers add a distinct charm to gardens and landscapes.
General Appearance
Oxalis capillacea E.Mey. ex Sond. is a subshrub that grows up to 50 cm tall and 60 cm wide. It has dark green trifoliate leaves with pinkish veins that resemble clovers. Its flowers are small, pinkish-white, and bloom from early spring to late summer, topping the slender stems that arise from the plant's basal rosette of leaves. The plant prefers well-drained soils in partial shade to full sun.
Light Requirements
Oxalis capillacea E.Mey. ex Sond. prefers bright, but indirect light. It grows well in partial shade and can tolerate full sun exposure for a few hours each day. Too much direct sunlight can cause leaf scorching, while too little light can result in leggy and weak growth.
Temperature Requirements
The ideal temperature for Oxalis capillacea E.Mey. ex Sond. growth is between 60°F-75°F. However, it can tolerate temperatures ranging from 50°F to 90°F. Temperatures below 50°F can cause damage to the leaves, while temperatures above 90°F can cause the plant to go dormant.
Soil Requirements
Oxalis capillacea E.Mey. ex Sond. prefers slightly acidic, well-draining soil. A pH range of 5.5 to 6.5 is ideal. The soil should be rich in organic matter, as the plant requires nutrients to grow. Adding compost to the soil can be beneficial. Avoid waterlogged or heavy soils as they can cause root rot.
Water Requirements
Oxalis capillacea E.Mey. ex Sond. requires regular watering, but the soil should not be kept constantly wet. Allow the top layer of soil to dry out before watering again. Overwatering can cause root rot, while under-watering can result in stunted growth.
Fertilizer Requirements
Oxalis capillacea E.Mey. ex Sond. benefits from regular fertilization during the growing season. Use a balanced fertilizer with equal parts nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Avoid over-fertilization as it can cause the plant to grow too quickly and become leggy.
Cultivation methods
The Oxalis capillacea E.Mey. ex Sond. plant prefers to be grown in partial shade or filtered sunlight. In nature, it is found growing under trees or in other shaded areas. This plant will tolerate some sun but should not be exposed to direct sunlight for more than a few hours per day.
It is recommended to use a well-draining potting mix. Ideally, the mix should have peat, perlite, and vermiculite. The best pH range is 5.5-6.5, so consider adding some acidic soil amendments when transplanting.
Propagation can be achieved through seed or division. The seeds need to be sowed early in the spring or during the fall. Division is best carried out at the beginning of the growing season, around March or April.
Watering needs
The Oxalis capillacea E.Mey. ex Sond. plant enjoys moist soil, but not overly saturated or dry. A general rule of thumb is to water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Try to avoid getting water on the leaves as they are prone to rotting.
The frequency of watering will depend on the temperature and humidity levels. During the summer months, the plant may require more frequent watering, while less in winter.
Fertilization
The Oxalis capillacea E.Mey. ex Sond. plant benefits from regular fertilization, especially during the growing season. Use a balanced fertilizer at half strength every two weeks. Be cautious of using too much fertilizer as overfeeding may lead to nitrogen burn.
Pruning
Trimming of the Oxalis capillacea E.Mey. ex Sond. plant should be minimal. Diseased, damaged, or dead leaves and stems should be removed as soon as possible to prevent the spread of disease.
If the plant becomes leggy or straggly, it can be pinched back to encourage fuller growth. The best time for pruning is at the beginning of the growing season, around March or April.
Propagation of Oxalis capillacea E.Mey. ex Sond.
Oxalis capillacea E.Mey. ex Sond. is a plant species that belongs to the genus Oxalis. It is commonly known as Pink-eyed sorrel, and it is native to southwestern Africa. Propagation of Oxalis capillacea can be done through different methods, including seeds, division, and stem cuttings, which are described in further detail below.
Propagation by seeds
Propagation of Oxalis capillacea by seeds is relatively easy, and it can be done in the spring and summer months. To begin, you should collect the seeds from the mature plant's seed pods. Sow these seeds in pots filled with well-draining soil, and cover them with a thin layer of soil. Water the soil lightly and keep it moist until the seeds germinate, which can take up to 21 days. Once the seedlings have grown, transplant them into individual pots or in the desired garden area.
Propagation by division
Propagation of Oxalis capillacea by division is a suitable method for plants that have grown large enough to develop more than one tuber. To do this, carefully remove the plant from the soil and separate the tubers with a sharp, sterile knife. Each division should have at least one tuber and several roots. Replant the divisions in their pots or desired garden area.
Propagation by stem cuttings
Propagation of Oxalis capillacea by stem cuttings is another method that involves taking a cutting of the plant 's stem and then rooting it in the soil. To do this, take a 3-inch stem cutting from the plant's base and put it in a pot filled with well-draining soil. Keep the soil moist and place the pot in a shaded area. After a few weeks, the cutting should root, and you can transplant it to the desired garden area.
There are different ways to propagate Oxalis capillacea E.Mey. ex Sond., including by seeds, division, and stem cuttings. The method you choose depends on the size of the plant and your desired outcome.
Disease and Pest Management of Oxalis capillacea E.Mey. ex Sond.
Oxalis capillacea or Pink Sorrel is a beautiful, low growing, perennial plant that belongs to the Oxalidaceae family. Like all plants, Oxalis capillacea is susceptible to several pests and diseases that can impact its growth and overall health. Here are some common diseases and pests that might affect the plant and some suggestions on how to manage them.
Diseases
1. Powdery mildew: Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that affects the leaves and stems of the plant. It produces a white, powdery substance on the surface of the leaves. To manage this disease, it is essential to keep the plant dry as much as possible. Regularly remove any infected leaves and dispose of them away from the plant. Fungicides containing sulfur or potassium bicarbonate can also be used.
2. Root rot: Root rot is a disease caused by a fungal pathogen that attacks the roots of the plant, leading to the death of the plant in severe cases. To prevent this disease, it is essential to avoid watering the plant excessively. Ensure that the soil is well-draining and always remove any dead or diseased plant material from around the plant.
Pests
1. Aphids: Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that feed on the sap of the plant. They can cause the leaves to deform, become stunted, and yellow. To manage aphids, you can use insecticidal soap or neem oil. Introducing natural predators like ladybugs or lacewings can also be effective.
2. Spider mites: Spider mites are tiny arachnids that feed on the sap of the plant, leading to yellowing and death of the leaves. To manage spider mites, increase the humidity around the plant or use insecticidal soap or neem oil. Regularly washing the plant with a strong jet of water can also help remove spider mites.
3. Snails and slugs: Snails and slugs are common pests that feed on the leaves of the plant. To manage these pests, you can use copper tape around the base of the plant or apply diatomaceous earth around the plant. Handpicking snails and slugs and disposing of them far from the plant can also be effective.
By managing diseases and pests, you can ensure that your Oxalis capillacea plant stays healthy and looks beautiful. Following the tips mentioned above can help keep your plant in good health.
