Origin
Oxalis corniculata L. var. macrantha auct. non Trel. is a plant species that belongs to the Oxalidaceae family and is native to Asia and Africa. It can now be found in many parts of the world and is considered an invasive weed in some areas.
Common Names
This plant species goes by a variety of common names, including creeping wood sorrel, procumbent yellow-sorrel, sleeping beauty, and even sourgrass or sourweed due to its tangy flavor.
Uses
Traditionally, Oxalis corniculata has been used in Chinese and Ayurvedic medicine for treating ailments like eczema, jaundice, and urinary tract infections. The plant contains high amounts of oxalic acid and other compounds with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Besides its medicinal applications, some people also eat the leaves and stems of this plant as a tart, lemony addition to salads, sauces, and soups.
General Appearance
Oxalis corniculata is a low-growing herbaceous plant that can reach up to 30 cm in height. It features small, bright green leaves that resemble shamrocks, with three heart-shaped leaflets that are slightly hairy and delicate-looking. The plant produces small, yellow flowers that bloom throughout the summer months, followed by clusters of tiny, elongated seedpods. This plant has shallow, creeping roots that allow it to spread quickly and take over lawns and gardens if left unchecked.
Light Requirements
Oxalis corniculata L. var. macrantha typically grows in full sun to partial shade. The plant requires moderate to bright light but prefers some shade during the hottest hours of the day to prevent drying out.
Temperature Requirements
The ideal temperature range for this plant is between 60 to 80°F (16 to 27°C). It can tolerate slightly higher temperatures but should be protected from frost and strong winds.
Soil Requirements
The plant prefers well-draining soil with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.0. The soil should be moderately fertile and rich in organic matter. Oxalis corniculata L. var. macrantha can grow in a variety of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils, but it is essential to ensure the soil is not waterlogged as this can cause root rot.
Cultivation Methods
Oxalis corniculata L. var. macrantha auct. non Trel., commonly known as creeping woodsorrel, is a low-growing perennial plant that can be cultivated in a variety of settings. It grows well in full sun and partial shade and prefers moist, well-drained soil. Before planting, it is advisable to loosen the soil and remove any weeds or rocks from the planting area so that the plant can spread out properly. Creeping woodsorrel plants grow best in zones 4-9 and can be propagated by seed or by dividing the roots of an existing plant.
Watering Needs
Creeping woodsorrel plants are relatively drought-tolerant and require moderate watering. They prefer consistently moist soil and should not be allowed to dry out completely. However, overwatering can lead to root rot and plant death, so it is important to avoid extreme fluctuations in soil moisture levels. As a general rule, watering once or twice a week should be sufficient, but the frequency may depend on the climate and soil conditions in your area.
Fertilization
Creeping woodsorrel plants do not require heavy fertilization and can thrive in soil that is low in nutrients. However, adding organic matter such as compost or well-rotted manure can help to improve soil structure and fertility. A slow-release, balanced fertilizer can be applied once or twice a year, in early spring and/or early fall, to encourage healthy growth and flowering.
Pruning
Creeping woodsorrel plants do not require extensive pruning, but they benefit from occasional trimming to remove dead or yellowing leaves and promote new growth. Pruning can also help to prevent the plant from becoming too leggy or invasive. Although creeping woodsorrel is not considered an invasive species, it can naturalize in some areas and may require some management to prevent it from spreading too far. To control the spread of the plant, remove any unwanted shoots or roots as soon as they appear.
Propagation of Oxalis corniculata L. var. macrantha auct. non Trel.
Oxalis corniculata L. var. macrantha auct. non Trel. can be propagated through seeds, division, and stem cuttings.
Propagation through Seeds
The seeds of Oxalis corniculata L. var. macrantha auct. non Trel. can be sown directly in the soil during the spring season. After sowing the seeds, cover them with a thin layer of soil. Keep the soil moist and wait for the seeds to germinate after a few weeks. Once the seedlings have grown to a reasonable size, they can be transplanted to their final position.
Propagation through Division
This method involves separating the plant into smaller sections and replanting them. This method is suitable for mature plants that have grown too large. Carefully dig up the plant without damaging the roots. Then, separate the plant into smaller sections and replant them in well-draining soil. Keep the soil moist and in a shady location for a few days until the new plants have developed a strong root system.
Propagation through Stem Cuttings
This method involves cutting a healthy stem from a mature Oxalis corniculata L. var. macrantha auct. non Trel. plant and transplanting it to a different location. The cutting should be around 5-10 cm long, and the leaves should be removed from the lower half of the cutting. Dip the bottom end of the stem into rooting hormone and plant it in well-draining soil. Keep the soil moist and in a shaded location until roots and new growth have developed.
Disease and Pest Management for Oxalis corniculata L. var. macrantha
Oxalis corniculata L. var. macrantha, commonly known as creeping wood sorrel, is a perennial weed that is found in many parts of the world. This plant is often considered problematic as it can rapidly spread across lawns and gardens, and compete with other plants for nutrients and space. To maintain the health and appearance of the surrounding vegetation, it is necessary to manage the diseases and pests that can affect Oxalis corniculata L. var. macrantha.
Common Diseases
The creeping wood sorrel is prone to a variety of diseases such as root rot, powdery mildew, and leaf spots. Root rot is caused by fungi, and it often happens when the plant is overwatered or sits in soil that does not drain well. The symptoms of root rot include yellowing of leaves, wilting, and stunted growth. Powdery mildew, on the other hand, is a fungal disease that results in white powdery growth on leaves and stems. Leaf spots, another common disease, is caused by bacteria and fungus and results in small dark spots on leaves that can merge and cause premature leaf drop.
Disease Management
To manage the diseases, it is essential to maintain proper watering and fertilization schedules, and make sure there is adequate sunlight and drainage. If root rot is already present, reduce watering and prune affected roots. For powdery mildew, remove the affected parts of the plant and use fungicides or horticultural oils as a spray-on treatment. Leaf spots can be eliminated by pruning and removing diseased leaves and ensuring proper air circulation.
Common Pests
Creeping wood sorrel is also susceptible to several pests, including aphids, spider mites, and slugs. Aphids, tiny sap-sucking insects, can distort the leaves and cause stunted growth. Spider mites, on the other hand, are tiny arachnids that leave small yellow dots on the leaves and cause discoloration. Slugs, a type of slimy mollusk, will eat through the leaves, leaving behind a slimy trail.
Pest Management
To manage pests, one can use natural methods like hand picking, sticky traps, and insecticidal soap or oil, or use chemical pesticides as a last resort. Frequent watering and organic fertilizers can help improve the plant's resistance to pests. To prevent slug infestations, it is important to keep the garden clean and remove any debris that might attract them.
