Origin and Common Names
Oxalis compressa L.f. var. purpurascens T.M.Salter is a member of the Oxalidaceae family, which consists of approximately 900 species of herbs and shrubs. This plant is native to South Africa, where it is commonly known as rooi-suring, meaning "red souring" in Afrikaans. It is also called wood sorrel or creeping sorrel in English due to its sour taste.
Appearance and Characteristics
Oxalis compressa L.f. var. purpurascens T.M.Salter is a low-growing, perennial herb that forms a mat-like groundcover. It has fleshy, bright green leaves that are trifoliate, meaning they have three leaflets. The leaflets are obcordate, which means they are inversely heart-shaped with a shallow notch at the tip. The leaves are approximately 0.8-2.5 cm long and 0.5-1 cm wide.
The plant produces tiny, white to pale pink flowers that emerge from small clusters at the end of a long, delicate stem. The flowers have five petals and bloom from late winter to early summer.
Uses
Oxalis compressa L.f. var. purpurascens T.M.Salter is primarily used as an ornamental plant due to its attractive foliage and delicate flowers. It is often used as a groundcover or as a filler plant in container gardens. The leaves and flowers of this plant are also edible and are often used in salads or as a garnish due to their tangy flavor.
Some species of Oxalis are known for their medicinal properties, although there is limited research on the potential benefits of Oxalis compressa L.f. var. purpurascens T.M.Salter.
Growth Conditions for Oxalis compressa L.f. var. purpurascens T.M.Salter
Oxalis compressa L.f. var. purpurascens T.M.Salter is a low-growing plant that thrives in cool, moist environments. Several growth conditions that are optimal for its growth and development include:
Light
Oxalis compressa L.f. var. purpurascens T.M.Salter thrives in partially shaded areas that receive dappled or filtered sunlight. It is also known to grow well under full shade conditions. Direct, intense sunlight can scorch the delicate leaves and stunt the plant's growth.
Temperature
The optimal temperature range for Oxalis compressa L.f. var. purpurascens T.M.Salter is between 10°C to 25°C (50°F to 77°F). The plant is not frost-tolerant and may die back in extremely cold temperatures. At warmer temperatures, the plant may undergo dormancy, reducing growth and development.
Soil Requirements
Suitable soil must be well-draining, fertile, and moist. Oxalis compressa L.f. var. purpurascens T.M.Salter thrives in moderately rich soil that's slightly acidic with a pH range between 5.5 and 6.5. The plant is also susceptible to root rot, so soil must have good drainage to avoid waterlogging.
These growth conditions are important in ensuring healthy growth and development for Oxalis compressa L.f. var. purpurascens T.M.Salter. Consistently providing these conditions will ensure that the plant thrives in the right environment.
Cultivation Methods for Oxalis compressa L.f. var. purpurascens T.M.Salter
Oxalis compressa L.f. var. purpurascens T.M.Salter, commonly known as the Purple Wood Sorrel, is a delicate plant that requires special care during cultivation. Start by choosing a well-draining and fertile soil mix for the plant. Use a mixture of sand, peat moss, and perlite, for good drainage. A pH level of around 5.5 to 6.5 is ideal for the plant to grow well. Ensure that the plant receives bright but indirect sunlight.
The plant can be propagated through seeds or cuttings. Propagation through cuttings is the easiest and most preferred method. You can use a rooting hormone to enhance the success rate of cutting propagation. The cuttings should be planted in a well-draining potting mix and should be kept moist until the roots establish.
Watering Needs for Oxalis compressa L.f. var. purpurascens T.M.Salter
Purple Wood Sorrel has moderate water requirements. Ensure that the soil is moist but not waterlogged. Overwatering can cause root rot and ultimately damage the plant. Avoid letting the soil dry out, as this will cause plant stress and wilting. The frequency of watering depends on the humidity, temperature, and pot size. A good watering schedule is once every three to four days.
Fertilization for Oxalis compressa L.f. var. purpurascens T.M.Salter
During the growing season, the plant requires regular feeding. Fertilizers high in nitrogen content are ideal for the Purple Wood Sorrel. Apply a liquid or slow-release fertilizer once every two to three weeks during the growing season. Avoid fertilizing during the dormant season of the plant as it would add unwanted stress.
Pruning for Oxalis compressa L.f. var. purpurascens T.M.Salter
Pruning is essential for the proper maintenance of the Purple Wood Sorrel. Trim off the dead, yellowing, and diseased leaves regularly. This will promote the growth of healthy foliage. Regular pruning will also control the growth and keep the plant compact. Use a sharp, sterile pair of scissors or pruning shears to avoid damaging the plant.
Propagation of Oxalis compressa L.f. var. purpurascens T.M.Salter
Oxalis compressa L.f. var. purpurascens T.M.Salter, commonly known as the 'Violet wood sorrel' is a low-growing, herbaceous perennial plant that can be propagated through a variety of methods. Here are the most common methods for propagating this plant:
Propagating by division
Dividing the rhizomes is the most popular way to propagate Oxalis compressa L.f. var. purpurascens T.M.Salter. Rhizomes are underground stems that grow horizontally, and they can be separated very easily. The best time to divide rhizomes is in fall or early spring when the plant is dormant. Simply dig up the plant, then separate the rhizomes by cutting them into sections with a sharp, clean knife.
Propagating by seed
Oxalis compressa L.f. var. purpurascens T.M.Salter can also be propagated by seeds. You can collect seeds from mature fruits in autumn, then store them in a cool, dry place until spring. In the spring, sow the seeds in a well-drained soil mix and keep them moist until they germinate.
Propagating by stem cuttings
You can also propagate Oxalis compressa L.f. var. purpurascens T.M.Salter by stem cuttings. Take cuttings of about 5-7 cm in length from the parent plant in spring or summer. Remove the lower leaves and plant the cutting in a well-draining soil mix with a rooting hormone. Keep the soil moist, and your cutting should develop roots in about a month.
Propagation of Oxalis compressa L.f. var. purpurascens T.M.Salter can be done through various methods, and each method has its own set of advantages and disadvantages. Choose the method that works for you and enjoy propagating this beautiful plant.
Disease and Pest Management for Oxalis compressa L.f. var. purpurascens T.M.Salter
Oxalis compressa L.f. var. purpurascens T.M.Salter is a beautiful and delicate plant that requires proper disease and pest management to ensure its healthy growth and development. In this section, we will discuss some of the common diseases and pests that might affect the plant and suggest ways to manage them.
Common Diseases
Fungal Leaf Spot: This disease is characterized by small, dark spots on the leaves of the plant. It can be caused by a variety of fungal species and is exacerbated by high humidity and overwatering. To prevent fungal leaf spot, avoid overhead watering and ensure that the plant has adequate ventilation. If the disease is present, remove infected leaves and increase air circulation in the plant's environment.
Rust: Rust is another common fungal disease that affects Oxalis compressa L.f. var. purpurascens T.M.Salter. It presents as orange-brown pustules on the leaves and stems of the plant. This disease is also exacerbated by high humidity, so again, proper ventilation is essential for management. Remove infected leaves and dispose of them in the trash to prevent the spread of spores.
Root Rot: Root rot is a common problem among plants that are overwatered. It is caused by various fungi and results in the decay of the plant's roots. To manage root rot, reduce watering and ensure that the plant is in well-draining soil. Remove infected parts of the plant and replant in fresh soil.
Common Pests
Aphids: Aphids are tiny insects that feed on the sap of plants. They can cause significant damage to Oxalis compressa L.f. var. purpurascens T.M.Salter if left unchecked. To manage aphids, use a strong stream of water to blast them off the plant or use an insecticidal soap to eradicate them completely.
Mealybugs: Mealybugs are small, white, cotton-like insects that feed on the plant. They can easily spread from plant to plant and cause significant damage. To manage mealybugs, use a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol to remove them or use an insecticidal soap to eradicate them completely.
Spider Mites: Spider mites are tiny, red insects that suck the sap out of plants, causing them to wilt and die. To manage spider mites, use a strong stream of water to blast them off the plant or apply an insecticidal soap to the plant's leaves.
By following these disease and pest management techniques, you can ensure the healthy growth and development of your Oxalis compressa L.f. var. purpurascens T.M.Salter. Remember to always monitor your plant for signs of problems and take action immediately to prevent further damage.
