Origin
Oxalis corniculata L. var. repens (Thunb.) Zucc. is a species that belongs to the Oxalidaceae family and is native to tropical Africa and North America. It has spread throughout the world and is now considered a weed in many countries.
Common Names
Oxalis corniculata L. var. repens (Thunb.) Zucc. is commonly known as creeping woodsorrel, procumbent yellow sorrel, and sleeping beauty.
Uses
Despite being considered a weed, Oxalis corniculata L. var. repens (Thunb.) Zucc. has some medicinal properties. In traditional medicine, it has been used to treat various ailments such as fever, diarrhea, and constipation. Additionally, its high vitamin C content has made it a popular dietary supplement.
General Appearance
Oxalis corniculata L. var. repens (Thunb.) Zucc. is a low-growing perennial plant that forms dense mats on the ground. Its leaves are trifoliate, with each leaflet measuring about 1 cm long. It produces bright yellow flowers, each containing five petals, which bloom from spring to fall. The plant's stem can grow up to 20 cm long and is typically reddish-purple in color.
Light Requirements
The Oxalis corniculata L. var. repens (Thunb.) Zucc. plant requires full to partial sunlight exposure. Insufficient light exposure may hinder growth and lead to smaller leaves with light green coloration. On the other hand, too much direct sunlight exposure may cause leaf wilting and yellowing. Therefore, it is recommended to provide the plant with bright, indirect light for optimal growth.
Temperature Requirements
Optimal temperature range for the growth of Oxalis corniculata L. var. repens (Thunb.) Zucc. is between 18 to 26°C (64 to 79°F). During the winter season, the plant can tolerate lower temperatures, but frost should be avoided. High temperatures exceeding 30°C (86°F) can cause heat stress to the plant resulting in leaf wilting and growth retardation. Therefore, maintaining the recommended temperature range is essential for healthy plant growth.
Soil Requirements
Oxalis corniculata L. var. repens (Thunb.) Zucc. grows well in well-draining soils with a slightly acidic pH ranging from 5.6 to 6.5. The soil should be rich in organic matter for optimal growth. The addition of compost or other organic matter every growing season can improve the soil fertility and provide essential nutrients to the plant. The soil should also retain adequate moisture without becoming too soggy. Therefore, regular watering and good drainage are necessary for proper root development and plant growth.
Cultivation Methods for Oxalis corniculata L. var. repens (Thunb.) Zucc.
Oxalis corniculata L. var. repens (Thunb.) Zucc. is a hardy plant that grows well in various environments. It can grow indoors or outdoors and can tolerate a wide range of soil conditions. However, this plant thrives best in well-draining soils, with a pH level of 5.5-7.5.
For outdoor cultivation, pick a spot that receives a good amount of sunlight, preferably in the morning or evening. The plant can tolerate a few hours of sunlight in the afternoon but can scorch in direct sunlight during the hottest part of the day. For indoor cultivation, select a bright location close to a window that receives sufficient sunlight.
Watering Needs for Oxalis corniculata L. var. repens (Thunb.) Zucc.
Oxalis corniculata L. var. repens (Thunb.) Zucc. requires moderate watering with well-draining soil. Overwatering and waterlogging can result in root rot and other fungal diseases. Make sure the topsoil is dry before watering the plant. Water the plant generously to keep the soil moist, but not waterlogged. During the growing season, water the plant thoroughly once a week.
During the winter months, reduce watering the plant, allowing the soil to dry out before watering again. Oxalis corniculata L. var. repens (Thunb.) Zucc. can tolerate slight drought conditions but may begin to wilt if under-watered. Therefore it is important to find the balance in watering this plant to prevent any damages.
Fertilization for Oxalis corniculata L. var. repens (Thunb.) Zucc.
Feed the plant with a well-balanced fertilizer, every two to three weeks, during the growing season. Use a low dose fertilizer to avoid over-fertilization, which can lead to root burn and yellowing of leaves.
In addition, supplement the plant with organic compost or manure to improve soil fertility further. Be careful not to apply too much manure as it may create an imbalance in the soil and result in leaf burn.
Pruning Oxalis corniculata L. var. repens (Thunb.) Zucc.
To prune the plant indoors, remove dead or yellowing leaves regularly. This encourages new growth and keeps the plant looking healthy. It is best to use sharp, clean scissors to prevent damage to the plant.
For outdoor cultivation, prune the plant when the growth becomes erratic and begins to spread too far. Pinch out any unwanted stems or flowers to encourage growth in the desired direction. Pruning helps keep the plant looking neater, encourages healthy growth, and prevents overcrowding.
Propagation of Oxalis corniculata L. var. repens (Thunb.) Zucc.
Oxalis corniculata L. var. repens (Thunb.) Zucc. can be propagated through various methods, including seed propagation, division, and stem cuttings.
Seed Propagation
Seeds can be obtained from mature plants and sown during the spring season. The seeds require light to germinate, so they should be sown on the surface of the soil and covered thinly with sand or perlite. The containers should be placed in a warm, well-lit area and kept moist. The seeds typically germinate within 2-4 weeks.
Division
The plant can be propagated through division by separating the rhizomes during the dormant period or early spring. Each division should have at least one healthy shoot and a section of the rhizome. The new plants should be planted in a well-draining soil mix and kept moist.
Stem Cuttings
Stem cuttings can be taken during the spring or summer and rooted in a well-draining soil mix. The cuttings should be taken from the tip of the stem and be at least 5-8 cm in length. The lower leaves should be removed, and the cuttings should be planted in small containers filled with moist soil. The containers should be kept in a warm, well-lit area and misted regularly until roots develop.
Disease Management for Oxalis corniculata L. var. repens (Thunb.) Zucc.
Oxalis corniculata L. var. repens (Thunb.) Zucc. is susceptible to several fungal and bacterial diseases. The common diseases that might affect the plant are as follows:
- Leaf spot: This fungal disease causes yellow or brown spots on the leaves. The damaged leaves may eventually fall off. To manage this disease, remove the infected leaves and dispose of them properly. Avoid overhead watering and keep the area around the plant clean and dry.
- Powdery mildew: This fungal disease appears as a white powdery substance on the leaves. It can cause the leaves to curl and turn yellow. To manage this disease, remove the infected parts and dispose of them properly. Water early in the morning so that the leaves can dry out during the day. You can also apply fungicides to prevent the disease from spreading.
- Root rot: This fungal disease is caused by overwatering and poor drainage. It causes the roots to rot and eventually kills the plant. To manage this disease, make sure the soil has good drainage and water only when the top inch of soil feels dry. You can also apply fungicides to treat the disease.
- Bacterial blight: This bacterial disease causes water-soaked lesions on the leaves, stems, and flowers. The infected areas may turn brown and eventually die. To manage this disease, remove the infected parts and dispose of them properly. Avoid overhead watering and apply copper-based fungicides to prevent the disease from spreading.
Pest Management for Oxalis corniculata L. var. repens (Thunb.) Zucc.
Oxalis corniculata L. var. repens (Thunb.) Zucc. is also susceptible to several pests. The common pests that might affect the plant are as follows:
- Aphids: These small insects suck the sap from the leaves, causing them to curl and turn yellow. To manage this pest, wash the plant with a strong jet of water. You can also apply insecticidal soap or neem oil to kill the aphids.
- Spider mites: These tiny pests feed on the undersides of the leaves, causing yellow or brown spots. They also produce webbing that can cover the plant. To manage this pest, wash the plant with a strong jet of water. You can also apply insecticidal soap or neem oil to kill the spider mites.
- Slugs and snails: These pests feed on the leaves and stems of the plant, causing irregular holes. To manage this pest, handpicking them is recommended. You can also use slug and snail bait to prevent them from attacking the plant.
- Caterpillars: These pests feed on the leaves and flowers of the plant, causing irregular holes and damage. To manage this pest, handpicking them is recommended. You can also use Bacillus thuringiensis (BT) to kill the caterpillars.
