Overview
Oxalis commutata Sond. var. concolor T.M.Salter is a type of plant that is commonly known as the silver oxalis. It is a member of the Oxalidaceae family and is mostly found in the Southern Hemisphere.
Appearance
The silver oxalis is a herbaceous perennial plant that grows up to 60 cm in height. It has bulbous roots that are white in color and small, bright green leaves which are trifoliate and can grow up to 5 cm in length. The plant also produces small, white flowers that bloom during the spring and summer months. The leaves of the silver oxalis are unique in that they have a silver-colored sheen on the top surface that gives them a distinct appearance.
Origin
The silver oxalis is native to South Africa, where it is found in the Western and Eastern Cape provinces. It is also found in other parts of the Southern Hemisphere, including Australia and New Zealand.
Common Names
The silver oxalis is known by a number of other common names including the kidney-leaved wood-sorrel, pink wood-sorrel, and silver shamrock.
Uses
The silver oxalis is commonly used as an ornamental plant in gardens and parks, as well as in containers and hanging baskets. It is a low-maintenance plant that requires little care, making it a popular choice for novice gardeners. The silver oxalis is also used in traditional medicine to treat a variety of ailments, including stomach issues, fever, and headaches. However, it should be noted that the plant does contain oxalic acid, which can cause irritation or an allergic reaction in some people if consumed in large quantities.
Light Requirements
Oxalis commutata Sond. var. concolor T.M.Salter prefers bright, filtered light. It can tolerate some direct sunlight in the morning and evening, but too much direct sun can cause the leaves to burn and wilt. Indoors, it does well in east or west-facing windows.
Temperature Requirements
This plant grows best in temperatures ranging from 65-75 degrees Fahrenheit (18-24 degrees Celsius). It can tolerate slightly higher or lower temperatures, but extreme temperatures can damage the plant. It is important to keep the plant away from cold drafts and air conditioning vents.
Soil Requirements
Oxalis commutata Sond. var. concolor T.M.Salter prefers well-draining soils that are rich in organic matter. A soil mixture containing peat moss, sand, and perlite works well. The pH level of the soil should be slightly acidic, around 6.0-6.5. Overly alkaline soil can cause the leaves to turn yellow and stunt growth.
Cultivation Methods
Oxalis commutata Sond. var. concolor T.M.Salter is a small, non-invasive perennial plant that requires partial shade to full sunlight. It grows well in loamy, well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. The ideal soil pH level for this plant is between 5.5 and 7.0. It can be propagated by division in the spring or fall and by seeds in the spring. The seeds should be sown in a well-draining soil mix, kept moist, and placed in a warm, sunny location.
Watering Needs
The watering needs of Oxalis commutata Sond. var. concolor T.M.Salter depend on the environment it is grown in. It prefers moist soil but does not tolerate waterlogged soil. Water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch, and avoid overwatering. During the summer months, the plant may require more frequent watering due to evaporation and increased heat. In winter, water the plant sparingly.
Fertilization
Oxalis commutata Sond. var. concolor T.M.Salter does not require heavy fertilization. Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer with an NPK ratio of 10-10-10. Apply the fertilizer in the spring, as the plant begins to actively grow. Avoid fertilizing the plant during the winter months. Over-fertilization can lead to excessive leaf growth and reduced flowering.
Pruning
Oxalis commutata Sond. var. concolor T.M.Salter does not require heavy pruning. However, if the plant becomes leggy or outgrows its space, it can be trimmed back to shape. Prune the plant after flowering has completed in the fall. Remove any dead or diseased leaves and stems. Cut back the remaining stems by up to one-third of their length to promote new growth and a bushier plant.
Propagation of Oxalis commutata Sond. var. concolor T.M.Salter
Oxalis commutata Sond. var. concolor T.M.Salter is commonly known as the "rose-scented wood sorrel" and is a popular ornamental plant due to its beautiful flowers and fragrant foliage. There are several methods of propagating this plant.
Seed propagation
One of the easiest ways to propagate Oxalis commutata is by using its seeds. Collect the seeds in late summer or early autumn when they are ripe and dry. Make sure to store them in a cool and dry place until you are ready to sow them in early spring. Before sowing, soak the seeds in water for 24 hours to soften the hard seed coat. Sow the seeds in seed-starting trays filled with a well-draining soil mix and keep them moist. After germination, transplant the seedlings into individual pots and fertilize them regularly.
Division
Another method of propagating Oxalis commutata is by division. Divide the plant in the spring when new growth appears. Carefully remove the plant from its pot or garden bed and gently pull the clusters apart. Make sure that each division has enough roots and leaves to support growth. Replant the divisions in well-draining soil and water them thoroughly.
Cuttings
Oxalis commutata can also be propagated by stem cuttings taken in late summer or early autumn. Select a healthy stem and make a clean cut just below a node. Remove the leaves from the lower part of the stem and dip the cut end in rooting hormone powder. Insert the cutting into a container filled with a well-draining soil mix. Keep the soil moist and place the container in a warm and bright area, but out of direct sunlight. Once roots have formed, transplant the cuttings into individual pots and care for them as you would mature plants.
By following these propagation methods, you can easily propagate Oxalis commutata and enjoy its wonderful fragrance and beauty in your garden or home.
Disease Management
Oxalis commutata Sond. var. concolor T.M.Salter is generally a healthy plant. However, it is susceptible to some common diseases. The following are some diseases that might affect the plant and ways to manage them:
- Fungal leaf spot: This disease is caused by fungi and is characterized by brown spots on the leaves. To manage this disease, it is recommended to remove all the affected leaves and destroy them. Avoid overhead watering and allow air circulation between plants to prevent the disease from spreading.
- Root rot: This disease is caused by soil-borne fungi and is characterized by yellowing leaves, wilting, and plant death. To manage this disease, it is recommended to avoid overwatering and make sure the soil has good drainage. Remove the infected plant and do not reuse the soil.
- Powdery mildew: This disease is caused by fungi and is characterized by a white powdery substance on the leaves. To manage this disease, it is recommended to remove the affected leaves and destroy them. Increase air circulation and avoid overhead watering.
Pest Management
Oxalis commutata Sond. var. concolor T.M.Salter can also be affected by some common pests. The following are some pests that might affect the plant and ways to manage them:
- Aphids: These pests are small, soft-bodied insects that feed on the sap of the plant and cause curling of the leaves. To manage aphids, it is recommended to wash the plant with a strong stream of water or use insecticidal soap.
- Spider mites: These pests are tiny and difficult to see but cause yellow stippling on the leaves. To manage spider mites, it is recommended to wash the plant with a strong stream of water or use insecticidal soap.
- Mealybugs: These pests are small, white, and covered in a powdery substance. They feed on the plant sap and can cause yellowing and wilting of the leaves. To manage mealybugs, it is recommended to remove them manually with a cotton swab dipped in alcohol or use insecticidal soap.
