Origin
Oxalis corniculata L. forma atropurpurea (Parl.) R.Knuth is a plant that belongs to the Oxalidaceae family. This species is native to Asia, Africa, and Europe, but it has been widely introduced in other parts of the world, such as Australia, North America, South America, and Oceania.
Common Names
The plant has several common names such as creeping wood sorrel, procumbent yellow-sorrel, sleeping beauty, Indian sorrel, and creeping oxalis. The name “sorrel” refers to its sour taste, which is caused by the presence of oxalic acid.
Uses
Oxalis corniculata L. forma atropurpurea has various uses in traditional medicine. In Asia, it is used to treat fever, cough, liver problems, and inflammation. In Africa, the plant is used to treat skin diseases, stomach ache, and diarrhea. In some cultures, the plant is used as a cooking ingredient to add a sour flavor to different dishes.
General Appearance
The plant has a prostrate habit and can grow up to 30 cm long. Its leaves are trifoliate, with each leaflet being around 10 – 20 mm long. The flowers are bright yellow and have five petals. The fruit is a capsule with seeds that can be dispersed by wind, water, or animals. The plant is adapted to different environments and can grow in a variety of soils, from sandy to heavy clay soils.
Light Requirements
Oxalis corniculata L. forma atropurpurea (Parl.) R.Knuth typically prefers moderate sunlight to grow. In areas with intense sunlight, the plant should be placed in a semi-shaded area. Lack of sunlight can result in poor growth, stunted leaves, and lowered bloom rates.
Temperature Requirements
The ideal temperature range for the plant's growth and development is between 15°C and 27°C. The minimum temperature limit is approximately 10°C, and the maximum temperature limit is about 35°C. In temperatures above or below the recommended range, the plant may become dormant or even die.
Soil Requirements
Oxalis corniculata L. forma atropurpurea (Parl.) R.Knuth thrives well in well-drained soils that are slightly acidic with a pH range between 5.0 and 6.0. The soil must be rich in organic matter, permeable, and light. A high concentration of clay can cause waterlogging, which can lead to the death of roots and the plant itself. Regular watering and adding organic matter to the soil can improve the growth and development of the plant.
Cultivation Methods for Oxalis corniculata L. forma atropurpurea (Parl.) R.Knuth
Oxalis corniculata L. forma atropurpurea (Parl.) R.Knuth, commonly known as creeping woodsorrel or purple oxalis, is a low-growing plant with heart-shaped leaves and purple flowers. It is easy to grow and maintain, making it a popular choice for gardeners of all levels of experience.
The optimal conditions for growing Oxalis corniculata L. forma atropurpurea include well-draining soil, partial shade, and regular watering. This plant can be grown indoors or outdoors, in pots or in garden beds.
Watering Needs for Oxalis corniculata L. forma atropurpurea (Parl.) R.Knuth
Watering is an essential aspect of caring for Oxalis corniculata L. forma atropurpurea. It needs to be watered frequently, but it is also important to avoid over-watering. The soil must be kept moist but not waterlogged.
Avoid letting the soil dry out completely, especially during the summer months when this plant is most active. Water the plant thoroughly, and allow the soil to drain before watering again.
Fertilization of Oxalis corniculata L. forma atropurpurea (Parl.) R.Knuth
Oxalis corniculata L. forma atropurpurea does not typically require fertilization. However, if you are growing it in poor soil, you can add some organic compost or balanced fertilizer to help provide essential nutrients.
During the growing season, apply a slow-release, balanced fertilizer according to the instructions on the package. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can cause the plant to become leggy or prone to disease.
Pruning of Oxalis corniculata L. forma atropurpurea (Parl.) R.Knuth
Pruning is not usually necessary for Oxalis corniculata L. forma atropurpurea. However, if your plant becomes too leggy or straggly, you can trim back the stems to promote new growth and keep the plant looking tidy.
To promote bushier growth, you can pinch back the tips of young stems. Remove any dead or damaged stems regularly to prevent disease from spreading and maintain the overall health of the plant.
Propagation of Oxalis Corniculata L. Forma Atropurpurea (Parl.) R.Knuth
Oxalis Corniculata L. Forma Atropurpurea (Parl.) R.Knuth, commonly known as Purple Wood Sorrel, is a perennial herb that belongs to the Oxalidaceae family. This plant form can be propagated through various methods like seeds, cuttings, dividing clumps, and tubers.
Propagation through Seeds
The Purple Wood Sorrel plant produces small seeds that can be harvested from the seed pods when mature. To propagate the plant through seeds, it is best to start the process indoors, ideally during the early spring. The seeds should be sown in a potting mix in a warm, sunny area, and kept moist until the seeds germinate, which usually takes about 7-14 days. Once the seedlings have developed a few leaves, they can be transplanted into individual pots and then gradually moved outdoors.
Propagation through Cuttings
The Purple Wood Sorrel plant can be propagated through stem cuttings taken from a mature plant during the growth phase. To take cuttings, select a healthy, well-developed stem and cut it into 3-4 inch pieces. Dip the stem cuttings into rooting hormone powder and then plant them in a well-draining potting mix. Water the cuttings regularly and keep them moist until they develop roots, which can take several weeks. Once the cuttings have rooted, they can be transplanted into individual pots and then gradually moved outdoors.
Propagation through Dividing Clumps
The Purple Wood Sorrel plant can be propagated through dividing clumps during the early spring. To do this, carefully dig up clumps from the parent plant and divide them into smaller pieces, ensuring that each piece contains some healthy roots. Plant each divided clump in individual pots filled with well-draining soil and keep them moist until they establish well. Once established, the potted plant can be moved outdoors and can be transplanted as desired.
Propagation through Tubers
The Purple Wood Sorrel plant forms small, round tubers on the roots that are capable of producing new growth. To propagate the plant through tubers, carefully dig up the parent plant and remove the tubers from the roots. Allow the tubers to dry for a few days and then plant them in well-draining soil, about 1 inch deep. Water the tubers regularly and keep them moist until they start developing leaves, which can take several weeks. Once the new growth develops, they can be transplanted into individual pots and then gradually moved outdoors.
Disease Management:
Oxalis corniculata L. forma atropurpurea (Parl.) R.Knuth is relatively hardy, but it is susceptible to certain diseases. Here are some common diseases and ways to manage them:
Leaf spot
Leaf spot is a fungal disease that appears as small, dark spots on the leaves. It is caused by humid and warm conditions, and it can lead to defoliation if left untreated. To manage leaf spot, it is important to remove affected leaves and dispose of them. Fungicides can also be used to prevent the spread of the disease.
Crown rot
Crown rot is a fungal disease that affects the stem and roots of the plant, causing the plant to wilt and die. It is caused by overwatering and poor drainage, so it is important to avoid wetting the leaves and to use well-draining soil. To prevent the spread of the disease, remove and dispose of infected plants.
Pest Management:
Oxalis corniculata L. forma atropurpurea (Parl.) R.Knuth is relatively pest-resistant, but here are some common pests and ways to manage them:
Aphids
Aphids are small, pear-shaped insects that suck the sap from the leaves and stems of the plant, causing curling and yellowing of the leaves. To manage aphids, use a strong stream of water to wash them off the plant. Alternatively, insecticidal soap or neem oil can be used to kill the insects.
Snails and slugs
Snails and slugs are common garden pests that can cause significant damage to plants. They feed on the leaves and stem of the plant, causing holes and shredding of the foliage. To manage snails and slugs, use physical barriers like copper tape or diatomaceous earth around the base of the plant. Alternatively, use traps or handpick the pests and dispose of them.
