Origin
Oxalis corniculata L. ssp. pilosa (Nutt.) Lourteig, commonly known as Creeping Woodsorrel, is a herbaceous plant originating from North and South America. It has been naturalized in Asia, Europe, Africa, and Australia, particularly in disturbed areas, gardens, and lawns.
Common Names
The plant has several common names, including Creeping Sorrel, Sleeping Beauty, and Yellow Wood Sorrel, among others.
Uses
Oxalis corniculata L. ssp. pilosa has been traditionally used for medicinal and culinary purposes. Some cultures use its leaves to make a tea that helps alleviate stomach pains and fever, while others eat its leaves as a salad ingredient or garnish. However, the plant can be toxic in large quantities, so caution must be exercised when using it for consumption. The plant is also used in some cultures as a dye for fabrics and textiles.
Aside from its traditional uses, Oxalis corniculata L. ssp. pilosa is also a popular ornamental plant, particularly in rock gardens, borders, and containers. Its bright yellow flowers and clover-like leaves add a cheerful touch to any landscape.
General Appearance
Oxalis corniculata L. ssp. pilosa is a low-growing perennial plant that spreads by means of rooting stems or stolons, forming a dense mat of foliage. Its leaves are trifoliate, meaning they comprise three leaflets that are heart-shaped, bright-green, and slightly hairy. Its flowers are yellow with five petals and borne on long stalks that rise above the foliage. The plant can grow up to 20 cm in height and 50 cm in width.
Light Requirements
Oxalis corniculata L. ssp. pilosa (Nutt.) Lourteig thrives in full sunlight to partial shade. It is highly adaptable to different light intensities, so it can grow in various parts of the garden regardless of the amount of light it receives. However, it tends to produce a more vibrant foliage color under bright, indirect sunlight.
Temperature Requirements
The plant can tolerate a range of temperatures, from below freezing to hot conditions. It prefers a warmer environment, between 70-85°F (21-29°C), and can only grow in regions with a minimum temperature of 35°F (2°C). If outdoor temperatures fall below this minimum limit, it can be grown indoors under fluorescent lighting.
Soil Requirements
The plant prefers a well-draining, slightly acidic soil, with a pH ranging from 5.5-6.5. Sandy or loamy soil with good drainage is ideal. This species is resistant to drought and can handle a wide range of soil moisture, but it prefers evenly moist soil conditions with regular watering.
Cultivation Methods
Oxalis corniculata L. ssp. pilosa (Nutt.) Lourteig is an easy-to-grow plant and can be grown in a range of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clayey soils. The plant prefers well-drained soil with a pH range of 5.0 to 7.5. It can be propagated by seeds or vegetative means. Seeds should be sown in spring or fall, and the soil should be moist but not waterlogged.
Watering Needs
The plant requires regular watering to ensure that the soil is moist, but not waterlogged. The frequency of watering depends on various factors, such as the soil type, temperature, humidity, and rainfall. Overwatering can lead to root rot, while under-watering can cause the leaves to dry out. The best time to water the plant is early morning or late evening to prevent evaporation.
Fertilization
The plant requires regular fertilization to promote healthy growth and blooming. A slow-release fertilizer formulated for flowering plants can be applied once every three months. Alternatively, a liquid fertilizer can be applied to the leaves every two weeks during the growing season. Care should be taken to follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer to avoid over-fertilization, which can lead to poor growth and blooming.
Pruning
The plant does not require extensive pruning, but occasional trimming can promote branching and bushier growth. Deadheading the spent flowers can also stimulate the production of new blooms. The best time to prune the plant is in late winter or early spring before the start of the growing season. Care should be taken not to trim too much, as this can lead to stunted growth or damage to the plant.
Propagation of Oxalis corniculata L. ssp. pilosa (Nutt.) Lourteig
Oxalis corniculata L. ssp. pilosa (Nutt.) Lourteig is commonly known as creeping wood sorrel. It is a perennial herb native to North America and can be propagated through several methods.
Propagation by seeds
Seeds from Oxalis corniculata L. ssp. pilosa (Nutt.) Lourteig can be collected from mature seed pods and sowed in a seedbed. The seeds should be sowed in well-draining soil and kept moist. Germination of the seeds can take up to two weeks. Once the seedlings have grown to a size that can be easily handled, they can be transplanted to their permanent location.
Propagation by division
Creeping wood sorrel can also be propagated by division. This method involves dividing the clumps of the plant into smaller sections, each with roots and shoots. The divided sections can then be planted in their permanent location. Division is best carried out in the spring or fall when the plant is not actively growing.
Propagation by cuttings
Propagation of Oxalis corniculata L. ssp. pilosa (Nutt.) Lourteig can also be done by taking stem cuttings. This method involves taking healthy stem cuttings from the plant and planting them in well-draining soil. The cuttings should be kept moist and in a warm, bright location until they have rooted. Once the cuttings have rooted, they can be transplanted to their permanent location.
Propagation by runners
Creeping wood sorrel can also propagate itself through runners. Runners are horizontal stems that grow along the ground and produce new roots and shoots. These runners can be dug up, separated, and transplanted to a new location to create new plants.
Disease Management
Oxalis corniculata L. ssp. pilosa (Nutt.) Lourteig is susceptible to several diseases that affect its growth and yield. The following are common diseases that can affect the plant:
- Leaf Spot: This disease is characterized by black or brown spots on the leaves. It can be caused by bacterial or fungal pathogens. Infected leaves should be removed and destroyed to prevent spread of the disease. Fungicides or bactericides can be applied to control the spread of the disease.
- Root Rot: This disease is caused by fungal pathogens and can result in yellowing of the leaves, wilting, and eventual death of the plant. To manage root rot, it is important to prevent overwatering and ensure good drainage. Fungicides can also be applied to the soil to control the spread of the disease.
- Anthracnose: This disease is caused by a fungal pathogen and can cause brown or black spots on the leaves, stems, and flowers. Infected plant parts should be removed and destroyed. Fungicides can be applied to control the spread of the disease.
Pest Management
Oxalis corniculata L. ssp. pilosa (Nutt.) Lourteig is also susceptible to pest infestations. The following are common pests that can affect the plant:
- Aphids: These insects can suck the sap from the leaves and stems and cause wilting and yellowing of the plant. They can be controlled by spraying the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Spider Mites: These pests can also suck the sap from the leaves and cause wilting and yellowing. They can be controlled by spraying the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Caterpillars: These pests can eat the leaves and stems of the plant, causing damage to the foliage. They can be controlled by manually removing them or by applying a pesticide to the plant.
In order to prevent disease and pest infestations, it is important to keep the plant healthy by providing adequate water, nutrients, and sunlight. Regularly inspecting the plant for signs of infestation is also important so that prompt action can be taken to prevent the spread of the disease or pests.
