Overview
Oxalis corniculata L. var. macrophylla Arsene ex R. Knuth, commonly known as Creeping Wood Sorrel or Indian Sorrel, is a species of perennial herb in the family Oxalidaceae. It is native to Asia and tropical Africa, but is now found worldwide, often as an invasive species.
Description
The plant has trifoliate leaves, with each leaflet being obcordate, or inversely heart-shaped, and measuring about 2 cm in width. The leaves emerge from a slender stem and are hairless. The flowers are small and yellow, and appear on upright stems held above the leaves. The seeds are small, black, and shaped like tiny barrels. The plant spreads by horizontal underground stems called rhizomes, which can grow up to 50 cm long.
Uses
Oxalis corniculata L. var. macrophylla Arsene ex R. Knuth has several uses in traditional medicine. It is used as a blood purifier, to treat skin infections, and to relieve coughs and fevers. In some regions, the plant is used as a vegetable or in herbal teas. The leaves and flowers have a tangy taste due to oxalic acid, which is also found in rhubarb, and has been used as a culinary ingredient in some cultures.
Appearance
The plant typically grows to a height of 10-30 cm, but can grow up to 60 cm in favorable conditions. The leaves and stems are green, and the flowers are small and yellow. The plant's rhizomes make it a creeping and invasive species, as it can quickly spread in favorable conditions. It is often seen in lawns, gardens, and fields, but can also grow in disturbed areas, roadsides, and waste places.
Light Requirements
Oxalis corniculata L. var. macrophylla Arsene ex R. Knuth prefers to grow under partial to full sunlight. It can tolerate some shade, but plants that receive less than six hours of direct or indirect sunlight per day may produce fewer flowers and become leggy.
Temperature Requirements
This plant can survive in a wide range of temperatures, but it prefers to grow in temperatures between 60 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit. The plant can survive light frosts but may suffer from prolonged exposure to colder temperatures. High temperatures beyond 90 degrees Fahrenheit can also stress the plant and reduce its growth and flowering.
Soil Requirements
The plant grows best in well-draining soils that retain some moisture but do not become waterlogged. The pH range that is suitable for the plant is between 5.5 and 7. The soil should also be rich in organic matter and have a high nitrogen content. A balanced ratio of N-P-K fertilizer is ideal for promoting growth and blooming.
Cultivation Methods
Oxalis corniculata L. var. macrophylla Arsene ex R. Knuth is a low-growing plant that can thrive both indoors and outdoors. It can be propagated by seeds or stem cuttings. If you plan to grow it indoors, make sure it receives adequate sunlight. Outdoors, it does best in partial shade or indirect sunlight. The soil should be well-draining, slightly acidic, and rich in organic matter. Ideally, it should be watered regularly, but not too frequently.
Watering Needs
The watering needs of Oxalis corniculata L. var. macrophylla Arsene ex R. Knuth are similar to those of most other plants. While it needs enough water to keep its soil moist, it also needs proper drainage to prevent waterlogging.
Fertilization
For optimal growth and flowering, the plant needs regular fertilization. Fertilizers rich in nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium are ideal for this plant. You can use organic fertilizers or chemical ones, depending on your preferences. Follow the instructions on the package carefully when fertilizing the plant, and don't overdo it. Too much fertilizer can be harmful to the plant.
Pruning
Oxalis corniculata L. var. macrophylla Arsene ex R. Knuth requires minimal pruning. If you notice any dead or wilted leaves or stems, remove them immediately. This will help prevent diseases and pests from affecting healthy parts of the plant. Additionally, pruning can be helpful in shaping the plant to your desired size and shape.
Propagation of Oxalis corniculata L. var. macrophylla Arsene ex R. Knuth
Oxalis corniculata L. var. macrophylla Arsene ex R. Knuth, also known as creeping wood sorrel, is a herbaceous plant that belongs to the Oxalidaceae family. It is native to Asia, but it has spread to other regions of the world, including Europe, Africa, and North America.
Propagation Methods
Oxalis corniculata can be propagated by seeds, cuttings, or division. The most common method of propagation is by division.
Propagation by Seeds
Propagation by seeds can be done by collecting mature seeds from the plant and sowing them in a well-draining potting mix. The seeds need to be covered lightly with soil and kept moist until they germinate. Germination usually takes around two weeks.
Propagation by Cuttings
Propagation by cuttings can be done by taking stem cuttings from the parent plant and planting them in a well-draining potting mix. The cuttings should be around 3-4 inches in length and should be taken from healthy, disease-free plants. The cuttings should also have at least two nodes, as these are the points from which new roots will grow.
Propagation by Division
Propagation by division involves separating the parent plant into smaller sections and planting them in different pots or areas of the garden. This method is best done in the spring, when the plant is actively growing. The plant should be dug up carefully, and the root ball should be separated into smaller sections. Each section should have several stems and a healthy root system.
Regardless of the propagation method, the newly propagated plants should be watered regularly and kept in a warm, bright location until they have established roots and are actively growing.
Disease Management
Oxalis corniculata L. var. macrophylla Arsene ex R. Knuth is prone to several diseases that affect its growth and productivity. The following are the common diseases that might affect the plant:
- Rust: This disease causes yellow or orange spots on the leaves and stems of the plant. To manage rust, remove the infected leaves and destroy them. Apply a fungicide if necessary.
- Leaf spot: This disease causes brown or black spots on the leaves, which eventually turn yellow and fall off. To manage leaf spot, remove the infected leaves and destroy them. Apply a fungicide if necessary.
- Powdery mildew: This disease causes a white, powdery coating on the leaves of the plant. To manage powdery mildew, prune the affected parts and apply a fungicide.
To prevent diseases, avoid over-watering the plant and ensure that it receives proper sunlight and air circulation. Additionally, maintain proper hygiene while handling the plant.
Pest Management
Oxalis corniculata L. var. macrophylla Arsene ex R. Knuth is also prone to several pests that can damage the plant. The following are the common pests that might affect the plant:
- Aphids: These are tiny, green bugs that suck the sap from the plant. To manage aphids, use insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Spider mites: These are tiny, red bugs that spin webs on the plant and cause yellowing and wilting of the leaves. To manage spider mites, spray the plant with water or use neem oil.
- Caterpillars: These are the larvae of moths or butterflies that eat the leaves of the plant. To manage caterpillars, remove them by hand or use Bacillus thuringiensis (BT).
To prevent pests, frequently inspect the plant and maintain proper hygiene. Use organic or chemical pesticides only as a last resort.
