Origin
Oxalis corniculata L. var. viscidula Wieg. is a type of plant that belongs to the genus Oxalis of the family Oxalidaceae. This plant is a native of Asia, but it has spread to other parts of the world, including Europe, the Americas, and Africa. It is found in various habitats such as waste places, lawns, fields, gardens, and along the roadside.
Common Names
Oxalis corniculata L. var. viscidula Wieg. is commonly known by many names. Some of the most common names include Creeping Woodsorrel, Sleeping Beauty, Sleeping Clover, Yellow Sorrel, Indian Sorrel, Rabbit's Foot Clover, and Creeping Oxalis.
Uses
The plant Oxalis corniculata L. var. viscidula Wieg. has several uses. Some people use it as a medicinal plant to treat various ailments such as coughs, headaches, and stomach issues. The leaves of this plant are used for making tea, which is believed to have some medicinal properties. In some cultures, the plant is used to treat skin infections, conjunctivitis, and even cancer.
Additionally, this plant is sometimes used as a food source. The leaves of Oxalis corniculata L. var. viscidula Wieg. are edible and can be used to make soups, salads, and other dishes. They have a tangy, sour flavor and are high in vitamin C. The plant's seeds and flowers are also used as food by some cultures.
General Appearance
Oxalis corniculata L. var. viscidula Wieg. is a small herbaceous plant that typically grows up to 30 cm in height. It has a creeping habit and spreads through stolons, forming dense mats of foliage. The leaves are trifoliate, with each leaflet being heart-shaped and measuring about 1-2 cm long. The plant produces yellow flowers that are about 1 cm wide and have five petals.
The overall appearance of Oxalis corniculata L. var. viscidula Wieg. is quite attractive, with bright green foliage and yellow flowers that bloom from spring to fall. It is a hardy plant that can tolerate a wide range of conditions and can be grown as an ornamental plant in gardens and landscapes.
Light Requirements
Oxalis corniculata L. var. viscidula Wieg. requires full sun to partial shade for optimal growth. When grown in partial shade, the plant may produce lighter foliage, but it can still thrive and produce flowers.
Temperature Requirements
This plant grows well in a variety of temperatures ranging from 15°C to 30°C. The ideal temperature range for its growth is between 20°C and 25°C. Oxalis corniculata L. var. viscidula Wieg. is mildly frost-tolerant, but a prolonged exposure to frost can damage and ultimately kill the plant.
Soil Requirements
The plant prefers a slightly acidic to neutral soil with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.0. It can grow in various soil types, ranging from sandy to clay and loam. Adequate drainage is crucial for a healthy plant, and the soil must be moisture-retentive but not waterlogged. Adding organic matter to the soil can help improve its fertility and nutrient content.
Cultivation methods
Oxalis corniculata L. var. viscidula Wieg. is a low-growing plant that can be grown indoors in pots or outside in garden beds. It prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic, and it should be planted in a spot that receives full or partial sunlight. The seeds can be sown directly in the soil in the spring or fall, or the plant can be propagated by division of the rhizomes.
Watering needs
Watering requirements for Oxalis corniculata L. var. viscidula Wieg. depend on environmental conditions. During hot weather or dry spells, the plant may need to be watered more frequently. However, too much water can cause the roots to rot. A good rule of thumb is to water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.
Fertilization
Oxalis corniculata L. var. viscidula Wieg. benefits from regular fertilization throughout the growing season. A balanced 10-10-10 fertilizer can be applied every two to three weeks, following the manufacturer's directions. For organic fertilizers, compost or worm castings can be added to the soil around the plant to provide nutrients.
Pruning
Pruning Oxalis corniculata L. var. viscidula Wieg. is not necessary for the plant's health, but it can help to shape it and promote fuller growth. Dead or damaged leaves and stems should be removed promptly to prevent the spread of disease. If the plant becomes too leggy or overgrown, it can be trimmed back to encourage bushier growth.
Propagation of Oxalis corniculata L. var. viscidula Wieg.
Oxalis corniculata L. var. viscidula Wieg. can be propagated by seeds and vegetative methods, such as division and stem cuttings. Depending on the method used, propagation can occur during spring or autumn.
Propagation by seeds
If propagating by seeds, sow them in well-draining soil and cover with a thin layer of soil. Keep the soil moist but not too wet, and place the seeds in a warm and bright location. The seeds should germinate within two weeks.
Propagation by division
Dividing the plant is a quick and easy method of propagation. Dig up the plant during the early spring or autumn, carefully remove the excess soil, and separate the roots and stems into smaller sections. Replant the sections into individual pots or directly into the ground.
Propagation by stem cuttings
Propagation by stem cuttings can occur during the spring or early summer. Cut a 4-6 inch piece of stem and remove the lower leaves. Dip the cut end in rooting hormone and plant it in well-draining soil. Place the cutting in a warm and bright location, and keep the soil moist. Within a few weeks, new growth should appear, indicating successful propagation.
Disease and Pest Management for Oxalis corniculata L. var. viscidula Wieg.
Oxalis corniculata L. var. viscidula Wieg., commonly known as creeping wood sorrel, is a hardy plant that can resist pests and diseases when grown under ideal conditions. However, several fungal infections, insects, and weed competition can affect the plant's health, leading to stunted growth, leaf yellowing, and ultimately plant death. Here are some common diseases and pests that affect Oxalis corniculata L. var. viscidula Wieg. and how to manage them:
Common Diseases
1. Powdery Mildew: Powdery mildew is a fungal infection that appears on the plant's leaves, causing a white, powdery coating to develop. The infected leaves will start to yellow and eventually fall off. To manage the disease, remove all infected leaves and prune any overgrowing branches to allow adequate air circulation. Use a fungicide with sulfur or potassium bicarbonate, spray evenly on all plant surfaces, and repeat the application after ten days for better results.
2. Rhizome Rot: Rhizome rot is a soil-borne fungal disease that leads to the discoloration of the plant's roots and rhizomes and eventually causes plant death. To manage the disease, remove all infected plant parts, dispose of them, and avoid overwatering the plants. Use well-draining soil and sterilize all tools before and after use.
Common Pests
1. Aphids: Aphids are a common insect pest that sucks the plant's sap, leading to stunted growth and necrotic spots on the foliage. To manage the infestation, use a strong stream of water to dislodge the insects and use organic insecticides like neem oil to kill them. Introduce natural predators like ladybugs, lacewings, and parasitic wasps, which feed on aphids.
2. Spider Mites: Spider mites are tiny insect pests that spin webs on the leaves, causing them to yellow and drop off. The infestation is prevalent during hot and dry weather conditions. To manage the infestation, prune off all affected branches and leaves, boost the humidity around the plant, and use horticultural oils or insecticidal soaps to kill the pests.
3. Weeds: Weeds compete with the plants for nutrients and water, leading to stunted growth and poor yields. To manage weeds, use mulch or organic compost to control their growth, hand-pull any emerging weeds or apply a pre-emergence herbicide to prevent further weed growth.
Regular inspection of the plants and maintaining good growing practices like providing adequate water, fertilization, and sunlight can prevent the diseases and pests from affecting the plants. With the appropriate disease and pest management strategies, you can grow healthy and robust Oxalis corniculata L. var. viscidula Wieg. plants.
