Origin and Common Names
Oxalis compressa L.f. var. compressa, commonly known as Creeping woodsorrel, is a member of the Oxalidaceae family. This plant is native to South America and has spread to different regions of North America, Europe, and Asia. The plant has earned itself various common names including Sleeping Beauty, Creeping Oxalis, and Sleeping Beauty.
Appearance
Closely related to the shamrock, the plant has a beautiful, delicate appearance with clover-like leaves that are green on top and purplish-red on the bottom. The leaves are typically trifoliate, meaning they have three leaflets, each about 1-2 cm. The flowers are small, yellow, and have five petals with purple markings that bloom in the summer, sprouting from the end of the stem or from the leaf axis. The plant grows low to the ground with a trailing stem that can reach lengths of up to 60 cm.
Uses
Creeping woodsorrel is primarily used as a ground cover plant and as an ornamental plant in outdoor gardens and indoor pots. Due to its creeping nature, it can form a dense and sprawling carpet-like effect that is excellent for covering rock gardens or filling in gaps in patio spaces. The foliage of the plant is sometimes used as a herbal remedy and has been known to have pain-relieving qualities. The roots of the plant have astringent properties and can be used to treat diarrhea, dysentery, and relieve pain associated with menstrual cramps.
It is important to note that some parts of the plant contain oxalates, which can be poisonous if ingested in large amounts. It is best to use caution when handling this plant and always wash your hands after coming into contact with it to avoid skin irritation.
Light Requirements
Oxalis compressa L.f. var. compressa requires a moderate amount of light. It can tolerate full sun to partial shade, but it grows best when planted in an area that receives bright, indirect light for about six hours each day. Too much direct sunlight can cause the leaves to wilt or burn, while low light levels can cause the plant to grow poorly and become leggy.
Temperature Requirements
The ideal temperature range for Oxalis compressa L.f. var. compressa is between 60 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit (15-24°C). It is important to keep this plant away from extreme temperatures, including drafts, which can cause it to become stressed and drop leaves. During the winter, it is best to keep the plant in a heated room, away from cold windows or doors.
Soil Requirements
Oxalis compressa L.f. var. compressa should be planted in well-draining soil that is slightly acidic. A pH range of 5.5 to 7.0 is ideal for this plant. It prefers soil that is rich in organic matter, such as compost or peat moss. Good drainage is important to prevent root rot, which can be caused by overwatering.
Cultivation
Oxalis compressa L.f. var. compressa is an easy plant to grow and is suitable for both indoor and outdoor cultivation. The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter and grows well in partial shade to full sun, depending on the location.
The ideal temperature range for the plant is between 60°F to 70°F (15°C to 21°C). It can tolerate the high heat and humidity of the summer season, but it cannot survive frost or extreme cold.
To propagate the plant, the easiest way is by division of the clumps in early spring when the plant just begins to grow.
Watering Needs
Watering requirements of Oxalis compressa L.f. var. compressa depend on the growing conditions, the season, and the humidity of the atmosphere. In general, the plant needs moderate watering, as it can tolerate long periods of dryness up to a point when the leaves start to wilt.
Overwatering should be avoided, as it can lead to root rot and other diseases.
Fertilization
Oxalis compressa L.f. var. compressa does not require heavy feeding, but regular fertilization with a balanced fertilizer can help the plant to grow better and increase its blooms.
The best time to fertilize the plant is in the spring season, just when the plant begins active growth. A slow-release fertilizer is a good option that releases plant nutrients slowly over time.
Pruning
Oxalis compressa L.f. var. compressa does not need frequent pruning, but it benefits from occasional deadheading to remove spent flowers and encourage new growth.
The plant can also be trimmed back in the late fall season to remove any dead or diseased leaves and make the plant look healthier.
When pruning, use a sharp, sterile tool to avoid damaging the plant and to prevent the spread of diseases.
Propagation of Oxalis compressa L.f. var. compressa
Oxalis compressa L.f. var. compressa, commonly known as the mountain oxalis, is an ornamental plant that can be propagated using various methods.
Seed propagation
The easiest method of propagation for Oxalis compressa L.f. var. compressa is through seeds. The seeds require minimal preparation, and they are readily available in gardening stores. The seeds should be sowed in a mixture of peat moss and sand, with a ratio of 2:1. The mixture should be kept moist, and the seeds will germinate in about two weeks. Once the seedlings are big enough, they can be transplanted to their permanent location.
Bulb division
Propagation through bulb division is another common method used for Oxalis compressa L.f. var. compressa. The bulb should be dug up when the plant is dormant, and the offsets should be separated from the bulb. Each offset should be planted in a separate pot, and the soil should be kept moist. The new bulbs will grow to maturity within a few months, and they can be transplanted to their permanent location.
Cutting propagation
Propagation through cutting is also possible for Oxalis compressa L.f. var. compressa. Cuttings should be taken from the plant during the active growing season, and they should be about 4-6 inches long. The cuttings should be planted in a mixture of peat moss and sand, with a ratio of 1:1. The soil mixture should be kept moist, and the cuttings will root within three weeks. Once they are established, they can be transplanted to their permanent location.
Disease and Pest Management for Oxalis compressa L.f. var. compressa
Oxalis compressa L.f. var. compressa, also known as creeping woodsorrel, is a perennial plant that is susceptible to various diseases and pests. Here are some common issues and ways to manage them:
Common Diseases
Leaf spot: Leaf spot is a fungal disease that appears as brown or black spots on the leaves. To manage this issue, remove the infected leaves immediately and discard them away from the plant. Avoid watering the plant from above and space out the plants to improve air circulation.
Rust: Rust is a fungal disease that causes yellow, orange, or red pustules on the underside of leaves. To manage this issue, remove infected leaves and make sure to water the plant during the early morning hours. Increase air circulation by removing debris and weeds around the plant.
Pythium rot: Pythium rot is a fungal disease that affects the roots, causing them to rot. To manage this issue, remove the plant from its pot and cut away any infected roots. Repot the plant in fresh soil and avoid overwatering the plant.
Common Pests
Aphids: Aphids are small insects that suck the sap from leaves and cause them to wilt. To manage this issue, remove the aphids from the plant with a strong spray of water or insecticidal soap. Encourage natural predators such as ladybugs and lacewings to control the infestation.
Spider mites: Spider mites are tiny pests that feed on the sap of the plant, causing the leaves to turn yellow. To manage this issue, rinse the plant down with water to remove the mites and encourage natural predators such as predatory mites to control the infestation.
Slugs and snails: Slugs and snails are common pests that can eat the leaves and stems of the plant. To manage this issue, handpick the slugs and snails, or use environmentally-friendly slug and snail bait to control the infestation.
