Overview
Oxalis corniculata L. var. dillenii (Jacq.) Trel. is a small, flowering plant that belongs to the Oxalidaceae family. It is known by various common names including creeping woodsorrel, sleeping beauty, sourgrass, yellow oxalis, and procumbent yellow-sorrel. The plant has been widely distributed throughout the world, and is found in various habitats, including lawns, open fields, and disturbed areas.
Description
Oxalis corniculata L. var. dillenii (Jacq.) Trel. is a low-growing perennial that spreads by rhizomes to form a dense mat. It has deeply divided, trifoliate leaves that are bright green in color and have a sour taste when chewed. The leaves are borne on long petioles that emerge from a basal rosette, and are often tinged with purple or brown on the underside. The plant produces delicate, yellow flowers that are about 1 cm in diameter and have five petals.
Uses
Oxalis corniculata L. var. dillenii (Jacq.) Trel. has a long history of use in traditional medicine. Various parts of the plant, including the leaves, roots, and stems, have been used to treat a range of ailments, including fevers, respiratory infections, and digestive disorders. The plant is also used in some parts of the world as a food source, and the leaves can be added to salads or used as a souring agent in soups and stews. In addition, the plant is sometimes cultivated as a groundcover or ornamental plant.
Cultivation
Oxalis corniculata L. var. dillenii (Jacq.) Trel. is a hardy plant that is easy to grow. It prefers full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil. The plant can tolerate drought conditions and is often used in xeriscaping projects. O. corniculata can be propagated through seed or rhizome division, and will quickly form a dense mat that crowds out other plants. The plant is considered invasive in some parts of the world, and can be difficult to control once established.
Light Requirements
Oxalis corniculata L. var. dillenii (Jacq.) Trel. requires full sunlight to partial shade for optimal growth. In areas with intense sunlight, partial shade is preferred, especially during the hottest part of the day. However, in regions with less sunlight, it is best to grow the plant in a location that receives at least six hours of direct sunlight daily.
Temperature Requirements
The plant prefers warm temperatures between 18 and 27 degrees Celsius. Temperatures below 15 degrees Celsius can be harmful to the growth and development of the plant. In regions where the temperature drops significantly during the winter months, the plant may go dormant and become less active until the temperature rises again.
Soil Requirements
Oxalis corniculata L. var. dillenii (Jacq.) Trel. grows best in well-draining, fertile soil. The soil pH should be between 5.5 and 7.0. The soil should be moist but not waterlogged, as the plant doesn't tolerate waterlogging. It is important to add organic matter to the soil prior to planting to improve the soil quality.
Cultivation of Oxalis corniculata L. var. dillenii (Jacq.) Trel.
Oxalis corniculata L. var. dillenii (Jacq.) Trel. is a low growing plant that is easy to cultivate and care for. It prefers well-drained soil and bright, indirect sunlight. It can be grown in a variety of containers, such as pots or hanging baskets, and can also be planted directly in the ground.
When planting Oxalis corniculata L. var. dillenii (Jacq.) Trel., it is important to space the plants at least 6 inches apart to allow for proper growth and prevent overcrowding. The plant can be propagated from seeds or cuttings, and should be planted in the spring or fall.
Watering Needs of Oxalis corniculata L. var. dillenii (Jacq.) Trel.
Oxalis corniculata L. var. dillenii (Jacq.) Trel. requires moderate watering. The soil should be kept moist, but not waterlogged. It is important to avoid overwatering, as this plant is susceptible to root rot. It is recommended to water the plant deeply once a week.
During the winter months, it is important to reduce watering, as the plant will enter a period of dormancy. When watering, it is best to water the soil directly and avoid getting water on the leaves or stems. This will help prevent the occurrence of fungal diseases.
Fertilization of Oxalis corniculata L. var. dillenii (Jacq.) Trel.
It is recommended to fertilize Oxalis corniculata L. var. dillenii (Jacq.) Trel. once a month during the growing season. A balanced fertilizer with equal parts nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium is suitable for this plant.
Avoid over-fertilization, as this can lead to excessive growth and weaken the plant. Over-fertilization can also cause the leaves to turn yellow or brown. It is important to follow the manufacturer's instructions when applying fertilizer.
Pruning of Oxalis corniculata L. var. dillenii (Jacq.) Trel.
Oxalis corniculata L. var. dillenii (Jacq.) Trel. does not require extensive pruning, but occasional pruning is recommended to maintain its appearance and ensure proper growth. Pruning can be done by trimming back any dead or yellow leaves, or by cutting back the stems to encourage new growth.
It is important to use sharp, clean pruning shears to prevent damage to the plant. It is also recommended to disinfect the pruning shears with rubbing alcohol or a bleach solution to prevent the spread of diseases.
Propagation of Oxalis corniculata L. var. dillenii (Jacq.) Trel.
Oxalis corniculata L. var. dillenii (Jacq.) Trel. can be propagated through different methods.
Seeds Propagation:
The seeds of Oxalis corniculata L. var. dillenii (Jacq.) Trel. can be collected and sown in the soil during the spring season. The seeds should be sown at a depth of about 1 cm and kept moist until germination. Germination usually occurs within 7-14 days.
Division Propagation:
The plant can also be propagated through division. To do this, the plant needs to be dug up carefully, and the root system separated into pieces. Each piece needs to be replanted in a pot or in the ground. This method is typically used for mature plants or plants that have become too large.
Cuttings Propagation:
Oxalis corniculata L. var. dillenii (Jacq.) Trel. can be propagated through stem cuttings. To do this, choose healthy stems and cut them into 5-10 cm lengths. Remove the lower leaves and plant the cuttings in a mix of sand and peat. Keep the soil moist and place the cuttings in a shaded area until they have taken root, which typically takes 4-6 weeks.
Overall Oxalis corniculata L. var. dillenii (Jacq.) Trel. is an easy plant to propagate, and the above methods should be successful if done correctly.
Disease and Pest Management for Oxalis corniculata L. var. dillenii (Jacq.) Trel.
Oxalis corniculata L. var. dillenii (Jacq.) Trel., commonly known as creeping woodsorrel, is a hardy plant that can tolerate a wide range of growing conditions. However, like any plant, it is susceptible to a variety of diseases and pests that can affect its overall health and appearance. Here are some common diseases and pests that might affect the plant and suggestions for managing them.
Diseases
1. Root Rot: This is a common disease that affects the roots of the plant, usually due to overwatering or poor drainage. The infected plant may show signs such as wilting, yellowing, and stunted growth. To manage this disease, ensure the plant is not overwatered and has adequate drainage. Consider changing the soil and spraying the plant with a fungicide to help prevent further infection.
2. Powdery Mildew: Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that appears as white, powdery spots on the leaves. It can be caused by high humidity, overcrowding, or poor air circulation. To manage this disease, remove infected leaves and increase air circulation around the plant. Consider spraying the plant with a fungicide to help prevent further infection.
Pests
1. Spider Mites: Spider mites are tiny pests that thrive in hot, dry conditions. They can cause damage by sucking the sap from the leaves, resulting in yellowing and wilting. To manage spider mites, increase humidity around the plant and consider using a pesticide specifically designed to target spider mites.
2. Aphids: Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that can cause damage by sucking sap from the leaves and stems. They can also transmit viruses that can be harmful to the plant. To manage aphids, remove the affected leaves and stems and spray the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Consider using natural predators such as ladybugs to control the population.
By monitoring the plant regularly for signs of disease and pests, proper care and timely interventions, it is possible to maintain the health and appearance of Oxalis corniculata L. var. dillenii (Jacq.) Trel.
