Origin
Oxalis corniculata L. forma villosa (M.Bieb.) Goiran, also commonly known as creeping woodsorrel or creeping oxalis, is a plant native to Eurasia but has become naturalized in many parts of the world, including North America, Africa, and South America. It is a member of the Oxalidaceae family.
Common Names
Creeping woodsorrel has several common names, including creeping oxalis, yellow oxalis, sleeping beauty, and procumbent yellow-sorrel. The plant's stem is prostrate, and the leaves are divided into three leaflets and triangular in shape, thus giving it the appearance of a clover. The leaves are a bright green color and have a sour taste due to the presence of oxalic acid.
Uses
The plant has some medicinal value and is used in traditional medicine to treat a variety of ailments, including diarrhea, fever, and skin diseases. It is also used to stimulate appetite and to aid digestion. The roots and leaves of creeping oxalis were used by Native Americans as a poultice for wounds and as an astringent to stop bleeding. However, the plant should be used with caution, as it can be toxic in large quantities and cause oxalate poisoning.
General Appearance
Creeping woodsorrel is a low-growing plant that can reach up to 12 inches in length. The leaves are arranged in an alternating pattern along the stem and are divided into three leaflets, each with a distinctive V-shaped mark in the center. The flowers are yellow in color and appear in clusters on the ends of thin stalks. The plant has a shallow root system and can spread rapidly by seed or by creeping stems.
Overall, Oxalis corniculata L. forma villosa is a fascinating plant with medicinal properties and an interesting appearance that makes it a popular ornamental plant.
Light Requirements
Oxalis corniculata L. forma villosa requires moderate to bright indirect light. Direct sunlight can scorch the leaves, so it is best to provide shading during the hottest parts of the day. This plant can also tolerate some shade but may become leggy if the light is too low.
Temperature Requirements
This plant prefers temperatures between 60-75°F (15-24°C). It can tolerate cooler temperatures but is sensitive to frost. During the winter, it is best to keep the plant in a warmer room or near a heating source to prevent damage from cold drafts.
Soil Requirements
Oxalis corniculata L. forma villosa prefers well-draining soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.0-7.0). A mixture of peat moss, perlite, and sand can provide the necessary drainage. This plant can also grow well in nutrient-rich soil, but it is important not to over-fertilize, as this can lead to excessive growth and burn the roots. Water the plant thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry.
Cultivation Methods
Oxalis corniculata L. forma villosa (M.Bieb.) Goiran grows best in well-draining soils, rich in organic matter. The plant thrives in full sun to partial shade and can tolerate a wide range of temperatures. It can be easily propagated through stem cuttings or division of clumps.
Watering Needs
The plant needs moderate watering throughout the growing season. The soil should not be allowed to dry out completely, but at the same time, it should not be too wet. Overwatering may lead to root rot, while lack of moisture may cause the plant to wilt.
Fertilization
Regular fertilization promotes healthy growth and vibrant foliage. A balanced fertilizer with equal parts nitrogen, phosphorous, and potassium should be applied every two to three weeks during the growing season. However, excess fertilization may result in weak and leggy growth.
Pruning
Oxalis corniculata L. forma villosa (M.Bieb.) Goiran is relatively low maintenance and does not require much pruning. However, deadheading spent flowers and occasionally trimming back overgrown stems can help maintain the plant's shape and promote bushier growth. Pruning should be done in early spring before new growth begins.
Propagation of Oxalis corniculata L. forma villosa (M.Bieb.) Goiran
Oxalis corniculata L. forma villosa (M.Bieb.) Goiran, also known as creeping woodsorrel, can be propagated by seeds, division, and stem cuttings.
Seeds
The plant produces small hard seeds that can be collected and sown in a well-draining soil mix. Sowing should be done in the spring when temperatures are warm, and the soil is consistently moist. Germination usually takes about 2-3 weeks, and the seedlings should be kept in a bright area, out of direct sunlight. Once the seedlings are big enough to handle, they can be transplanted into individual pots or directly into the garden.
Division
The plant can be easily propagated by division, which should be done in the spring or fall. The clumps should be carefully dug up, and the roots should be separated into sections, ensuring that each section has a good amount of root and foliage. The separated sections can then be replanted into pots or directly into the garden.
Stem cuttings
Stem cuttings can be taken from the plant in the late spring or early summer. The cuttings should be about 4-6 inches long and taken from healthy, vigorous plants. The cuttings should be planted in well-draining soil mix and kept moist until new growth appears. Once the new growth appears, the cutting can be transplanted into individual pots or directly into the garden.
Disease Management
Oxalis corniculata L. forma villosa (M.Bieb.) Goiran is susceptible to a number of diseases that can reduce plant health and productivity. Proper cultural practices should be implemented to prevent and manage these diseases.
One common disease that affects this plant is powdery mildew. This disease is characterized by a white, powdery growth on leaves, stems, and flowers. It is caused by a fungal pathogen and can cause curling, yellowing, and wilting of foliage. To manage powdery mildew, affected parts of the plant should be removed and destroyed. Sprays of neem oil or sulfur may also be effective in controlling the spread of the disease.
Leaf spot is another common disease that can affect Oxalis corniculata. This disease manifests as irregularly shaped brown or black spots on the leaves. It is caused by a fungal pathogen and can lead to defoliation of the plant. To manage leaf spot, affected leaves should be removed and destroyed. Fungicides containing copper or sulfur may also be effective in controlling the spread of leaf spot.
Pest Management
Oxalis corniculata is susceptible to a number of pests that can reduce plant health and productivity. Proper cultural practices and pest management strategies should be implemented to prevent and manage these pests.
One common pest that affects this plant is the Aphid. The aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that attach to the undersides of leaves and suck sap from the plant. They can cause wilting, curling, and yellowing of foliage. To manage aphids, natural predators like Ladybugs are introduced into the garden to control them. Additionally, spraying insecticidal soap solution on the affected part can control the spread of aphids.
The spider mite is another common pest that infests Oxalis corniculata. These pests are tiny, sap-sucking insects that feed on the undersides of leaves. Infested leaves may appear stippled with tiny yellow or white spots. To manage spider mites, affected leaves should be removed and destroyed. A solution of soapy water can be applied to control the spread of spider mites.
