Overview of Oxalis corniculata L. var. sericea Kunth
Oxalis corniculata L. var. sericea Kunth, also commonly known as creeping wood sorrel, is a perennial herbaceous plant that belongs to the Oxalidaceae family. It is native to much of Europe, Africa, Asia, and Australia. Although it is primarily considered an invasive weed in North America, it is used as a herb in traditional Chinese medicine.
General Appearance of Oxalis corniculata L. var. sericea Kunth
Creeping wood sorrel is a low-growing plant that has stems that can reach up to 40cm in length. The leaves are trifoliate and bronze-green to purple in color. The leaflets are heart-shaped and have a glossy appearance, with a distinct crease in the center. The plant produces yellow or white flowers with five petals that bloom from summer to fall.
Common Names of Oxalis corniculata L. var. sericea Kunth
The plant has a variety of common names depending on the region it is found in. Some of the most common names include creeping woodsorrel, yellow oxalis, procumbent yellow-sorrel, and creeping sorrel.
Uses of Oxalis corniculata L. var. sericea Kunth
Creeping wood sorrel has a variety of uses. In traditional Chinese medicine, parts of the plant are used to treat diarrhoea, dysentery, and fever. The plant is also used to make a tea that is believed to help improve digestion and reduce inflammation. However, it is important to note that the plant is toxic in high doses and should not be consumed without proper guidance from a qualified healthcare provider. In some countries, the plant is used as a garnish to add sourness to salads and other dishes.
Light Requirements
Oxalis corniculata L. var. sericea Kunth is a plant that requires moderate sunlight to grow. It thrives well under partial shade to partial sun. Full sun exposure can cause leaf scorching and retard the plant's growth.
Temperature Requirements
The temperature requirements of Oxalis corniculata L. var. sericea Kunth are moderate. The plant prefers average room temperatures of 18 to 24°C. However, it can tolerate temperature ranges of 7 to 29°C. Temperatures below 4°C and above 35°C can cause damage to the plant's leaves and roots.
Soil Requirements
The plant prefers well-drained, moist soils that are rich in organic matter. However, it does not tolerate waterlogged soils. A mixture of peat moss, sand, and garden soil is an excellent option for planting oxalis corniculata. The plant also thrives well in slightly acidic soils with pH ranging from 5.5 to 6.5.
Cultivation
The Oxalis corniculata L. var. sericea Kunth plant is suitable for outdoor and indoor cultivation. It thrives well in warm climates and can tolerate partial to full sunlight. If planting it indoors, select an area where it can receive indirect sunlight.
For outdoor cultivation, select a well-drained soil that is rich in nutrients. This plant has low water requirements, and it can tolerate dry conditions, so ensure that the soil is moderately moist and never waterlogged.
For indoor cultivation, use a well-draining, acidic potting mix. Repot the plant every year, moving it to a bigger pot as it grows. Place the pot near a brightly-lit window.
Watering Needs
The Oxalis corniculata L. var. sericea Kunth plant prefers moderate watering. Water the plant thoroughly once a week, allowing the soil to dry out in between waterings.
For outdoor cultivation, adjust the watering frequency depending on weather conditions. During hot weather, increase the watering frequency to keep the soil moist. On the other hand, during cold weather, reduce watering to prevent waterlogging and root rot.
For indoor cultivation, water the plant from the root to prevent water from accumulating on the leaves and causing damage.
Fertilization
Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer once every three months to boost growth and promote flowering. Avoid using high-nitrogen fertilizers as they can cause the plant to produce abundant foliage at the expense of flowers.
For outdoor cultivation, apply the fertilizer around the base of the plant, and water it thoroughly to ensure that the nutrients reach the roots.
For indoor cultivation, dilute the fertilizer to half-strength and apply it every two months. Avoid applying too much fertilizer as it can cause damage to the roots.
Pruning
Prune Oxalis corniculata L. var. sericea Kunth regularly to promote bushy growth and remove dead or diseased branches. Pruning should be done in the early spring before the growing season starts.
Use a clean and sharp pair of pruning shears to avoid causing damage to the plant. Cut the branches just above the junction of the leaves to promote new growth.
For indoor cultivation, remove any yellow or damaged leaves to prevent pest infestation and improve air circulation around the plant.
Propagation of Oxalis corniculata L. var. sericea Kunth
Oxalis corniculata L. var. sericea Kunth, commonly known as creeping woodsorrel or yellow woodsorrel, is an ornamental and medicinal plant native to Asia, Europe, and North America. It is a low-growing perennial that produces attractive yellow flowers and trifoliate leaves.
Propagation Methods
The propagation of Oxalis corniculata L. var. sericea Kunth can be done by four methods, such as:
1. Division
Division is the easiest and most common method of propagating creeping woodsorrel. This method involves separating the plant's rhizomes or bulbs in the fall or early spring when the plant is dormant. The rhizomes/bulbs should be gently separated and then immediately planted in a well-drained potting mixture and watered well.
2. Seeds
Seeds can also be used to propagate Oxalis corniculata L. var. sericea Kunth. The seeds should be sown in the spring or fall when temperatures are mild. Seeds should be germinated in a well-drained potting mixture and kept moist but not waterlogged. Seedlings should be thinned to allow them to grow properly.
3. Stem Cuttings
Stem cuttings of Oxalis corniculata L. var. sericea Kunth can be taken in the summer when the plant is actively growing. Take 3-4 inch cuttings from the tips of healthy stems and remove the lower leaves to expose the nodes. Dip the cuttings in rooting hormone and plant in a well-draining soil mix. Water well and cover with clear plastic to create a greenhouse effect.
4. Tissue Culture
Tissue culture is a specialized propagation method used to grow plants in a sterile environment. This method is useful for propagating large quantities of plants quickly and for producing disease-free plants. It involves taking small samples of tissue from the plant and growing them in a nutrient-rich solution under controlled environmental conditions.
Disease and Pest Management for Oxalis corniculata L. var. sericea Kunth
Oxalis corniculata L. var. sericea Kunth, commonly known as creeping wood sorrel or procumbent yellow-sorrel, is a perennial weed that can invade lawns, gardens, and agricultural fields. It is a tough plant that can thrive in various conditions, making it difficult to manage. Here are some common diseases and pests that might affect the plant and ways to manage them.
Diseases
1. Leaf Spot: Leaf spot is a fungal disease that causes circular brownish-black spots to form on the leaves. It can spread quickly, especially in humid environments, and can cause defoliation if not controlled. To manage this disease, remove infected leaves and stems, and dispose of them away from the garden or field. Avoid overhead watering, and water the plant at the base to reduce humidity. Fungicides can also be used to control severe infections.
2. Powdery Mildew: Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that causes a white powdery coating to form on the leaves, stems, and flowers. It can weaken the plant and reduce yield if not managed. To control this disease, ensure good air circulation around the plant by spacing them adequately. Water the plant at the base, and avoid getting the leaves wet. Use fungicides to control severe infections.
Pests
1. Aphids: Aphids are sap-sucking insects that can cause stunted growth, yellowing of leaves, and distortion of new growth. They also secrete a sticky substance that attracts ants and promotes the growth of sooty mold. To manage aphids, spray the plant with a strong jet of water to dislodge them, encourage the presence of natural predators like ladybugs and lacewings, use insecticidal soaps or neem oil, or prune infested branches.
2. Spider Mites: Spider mites are tiny insects that feed on the plant's sap and cause yellowing of leaves, speckling, and defoliation. They thrive in hot and dry conditions and can reproduce quickly, making them difficult to manage. To control spider mites, increase humidity around the plant by misting it regularly, remove heavily infested leaves, use insecticidal soaps or neem oil, or introduce natural predators like ladybugs, predatory mites, or lacewings.
3. Slugs and Snails: Slugs and snails are mollusks that feed on the plant's leaves and stems, leaving large irregular holes. They can also feed on the flowers and fruits, causing deformities. To manage these pests, handpick them in the evening or early morning when they are most active, use copper barriers or diatomaceous earth around the plant to deter them, or use iron phosphate baits.
By being vigilant and proactive, you can prevent or manage diseases and pests that might affect Oxalis corniculata L. var. sericea Kunth. Combining different methods can also improve the effectiveness of control, ensuring a healthy and thriving plant.
