Origin and Common Names
Oxalis corniculata L. var. villosa (Bieb.) Hohen. is a species of flowering plant that belongs to the Oxalidaceae family. It is commonly known as hairy wood sorrel, creeping woodsorrel, or creeping yellow sorrel. The plant is native to Europe, but it has naturalized in other continents, including North America, Asia, and parts of Africa.
Uses
Oxalis corniculata L. var. villosa (Bieb.) Hohen. has several uses in traditional medicine. The plant contains a variety of chemicals, including flavonoids, alkaloids, and phenolic acids, that exhibit antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antibacterial properties. In some cultures, the freshly crushed leaves of Oxalis corniculata are applied topically to treat skin conditions such as burns, cuts, and rashes. The plant's leaves and stems are also used in herbal teas to help treat digestive disorders and improve appetite.
General Appearance
Oxalis corniculata L. var. villosa (Bieb.) Hohen. is a small, herbaceous perennial plant that grows up to 30cm in height. It has a creeping or trailing habit, with hairy stems that form dense mats on the ground. The leaves are trifoliate, with each leaf having three heart-shaped or kidney-shaped leaflets that are green in color with whitish veins. The plant produces small yellow flowers that have five petals and bloom from late spring to early fall.
Overall, Oxalis corniculata L. var. villosa (Bieb.) Hohen. is an attractive and useful plant that has found its way into different cultures across the world due to its medicinal properties, making it a fascinating species to study and appreciate.
Light Requirements
Oxalis corniculata L. var. villosa (Bieb.) Hohen. thrives in environments with moderate to bright light. It requires a minimum of four hours of sunlight daily. It is not advisable to expose the plant to direct sunlight for extended periods as it can damage the leaves.
Temperature Requirements
Being a hardy plant, Oxalis corniculata L. var. villosa (Bieb.) Hohen. can tolerate a wide range of temperatures. However, it grows optimally between 20°C to 30°C. Temperatures below 10°C or above 35°C can affect plant growth and development. Extreme cold temperatures may cause the plant to die off.
Soil Requirements
The plant thrives well in loose, well-draining soils. A soil pH between 6.0 to 7.0 is suitable for Oxalis corniculata L. var. villosa (Bieb.) Hohen. growth. The soil should contain organic matter, and as a foliar feeder, the plant requires well-nourished soils. Waterlogging and compact soils hinder growth and development, leading to rotting of roots.
Cultivation
Oxalis corniculata L. var. villosa (Bieb.) Hohen., commonly known as creeping woodsorrel, is an easy-to-grow plant that can thrive in various conditions. It is recommended to grow the plant in well-draining soil that is low in nutrients. The plant can be grown in either full sunlight or partial shade.
Propagation: The plant can be propagated through seeds or by dividing the clumps of established plants. Spring is the best season for sowing the seeds, while plant division can be done during the autumn season. Ensure that the new plants are watered regularly, especially during the first few weeks of growth.
Watering Needs
Creeping woodsorrel needs watering frequently, especially during the hot and dry seasons. It is essential to ensure that the soil is well-draining, as the plant cannot tolerate waterlogging. The plant can be watered twice a week or more frequently, depending on the soil's moisture level. As a general rule, ensure that the top inch of the soil is moist but not waterlogged.
Fertilization
The creeping woodsorrel plant does not require much fertilization. However, if you want to make the plant grow more vigorously, you can apply a slow-release fertilizer in the spring and summer seasons. Ensure that you do not over-fertilize, as this can lead to excessive foliage growth and reduced flowering.
Pruning
Pruning is not mandatory for creeping woodsorrel plants, but it can help maintain the plant's neat appearance. You can prune the plant down to the ground after flowering to manage its growth. Additionally, removing the yellowing or dead leaves can help enhance the plant's appearance.
Propagation methods for Oxalis corniculata L. var. villosa (Bieb.) Hohen.
Oxalis corniculata L. var. villosa (Bieb.) Hohen. can be propagated by four methods:
1. Division
The most common propagation method for Oxalis corniculata L. var. villosa (Bieb.) Hohen. is through division. Divide the plant when the bulb clumps become large enough in late summer. The bulbs and roots should be pulled apart gently, and then the bulbs can be replanted.
2. Seeds
Collect seeds from dry pods, and break them to remove the small seeds. Sow the seeds in a seed tray and cover them with a thin layer of soil. Water the tray, and place it in a shaded area. Germination should occur within a week or two.
3. Cuttings
Take stem cuttings when the plant is actively growing. Cut a 10cm long stem section from the parent plant, and remove all but the top few leaves. Dip the cutting in rooting hormone and plant it in a pot filled with a well-draining potting mix. Keep the soil moist, and protect the cutting from direct sunlight. Roots should develop in two to three weeks.
4. Bulbils
Bulbils appear at the base of the plant, especially during the late summer and spring. Gently remove the bulbils, plant them in a shallow pot, and keep the soil moist.
Propagation of Oxalis corniculata L. var. villosa (Bieb.) Hohen. is relatively easy. Choose the method that works best for you and enjoy the beauty and growth of this plant!
Disease Management for Oxalis corniculata L. var. villosa (Bieb.) Hohen.
Oxalis corniculata L. var. villosa (Bieb.) Hohen. is a plant species that is vulnerable to different types of diseases. Here are some of the common diseases that might affect the plant, along with suggestions on how to manage them:
1. Leaf Spot Disease
Leaf Spot Disease is a fungus that can cause small, dark spots on the leaves of Oxalis corniculata L. var. villosa (Bieb.) Hohen. This disease is caused by humid weather and poor air circulation around the plant. To manage this disease, it is recommended to prune the affected parts of the plant and dispose of them properly. Also, avoid overhead watering and keep the plant dry as much as possible to prevent the spread of the fungus.
2. Root Rot Disease
Root Rot Disease is caused by different types of fungi and can cause the plant's roots to become black, slimy, and mushy. Overwatering is the most common cause of this disease. To manage Root Rot Disease, remove the infected plant from the soil and remove all the rotted roots. Replant the plant in fresh soil and avoid overwatering in the future.
Pest Management for Oxalis corniculata L. var. villosa (Bieb.) Hohen.
Like most plants, Oxalis corniculata L. var. villosa (Bieb.) Hohen. is susceptible to pest attacks. Here are some common pests that might affect the plant and suggestions on how to manage them:
1. Aphids
Aphids are tiny insects that can cause yellowing and distortion of the leaves. To manage aphids, you can use insecticidal soap or neem oil. You can also introduce natural predators like ladybugs or lacewings to your garden, as they can feed on aphids.
2. Spider Mites
Spider mites are tiny pests that can cause yellow spots on the leaves and can sometimes spin spider webs around the plant. To manage spider mites, you can use insecticidal soap or neem oil. You can also wash the plant's leaves with a strong stream of water to dislodge the pests.
3. Mealybugs
Mealybugs are small insects that can cause the plant to weaken and shrivel. To manage mealybugs, you can use insecticidal soap or neem oil. If the infestation is severe, you may also need to prune the affected parts of the plant and dispose of them properly.
Overall, maintaining healthy plants through proper watering, fertilization, and good air circulation is the best defense against pests and diseases in Oxalis corniculata L. var. villosa (Bieb.) Hohen.
