Overview
Oxalis corniculata L. x O. radicosa A.Rich. ex Hell. is a hybrid species of the genus Oxalis, a group of plants in the family Oxalidaceae. This particular hybrid is a cross between Oxalis corniculata and Oxalis radicosa. It has gained popularity in recent years due to its unique appearance and ease of care in garden settings.
Origin and Common Names
Oxalis corniculata L. x O. radicosa A.Rich. ex Hell. is not a naturally occurring hybrid. It was created through intentional cross-breeding in botanical research and experimentation. The parent species, Oxalis corniculata and Oxalis radicosa, originated in Asia and South America respectively.
Oxalis corniculata L. x O. radicosa A.Rich. ex Hell. is known by several common names, including 'Lucky Clover', 'Oxalis Hybrid', and 'Double Yellow Oxalis'.
Appearance
Oxalis corniculata L. x O. radicosa A.Rich. ex Hell. is a low-growing plant with a spread of around 30 centimeters. Its leaves are trifoliate, which means they consist of three leaflets per stem. The leaves are green and the flowers are vibrant yellow with multiple layers of petals, which give it a unique and captivating appearance. It blooms in late spring through summer.
This hybrid has a mounding habit which makes it perfect for growing as a ground cover in garden beds. It grows well in full to part sun and prefers well-draining soil conditions. Oxalis corniculata L. x O. radicosa A.Rich. ex Hell. requires minimal maintenance and is drought tolerant once established.
Uses
Oxalis corniculata L. x O. radicosa A.Rich. ex Hell. is primarily grown as an ornamental plant in garden settings. It is often used as a ground cover or added to container gardens to provide a pop of color. Additionally, its edible leaves and stems can be used in salads or as a garnish in culinary applications. The plant has also been traditionally used in herbal medicine to treat a variety of ailments such as fever and inflammation.
Light Requirements
Oxalis corniculata L. x O. radicosa A.Rich. ex Hell., commonly known as creeping wood sorrel, prefers bright indirect sunlight or partial shade. Direct sunlight may be too intense for the plant, causing the leaves to wither and curl. Therefore, it is best to place the plant in a location where it can receive morning or evening sun exposure while avoiding the scorching midday sun.
Temperature Conditions
The ideal temperature range for growing Oxalis corniculata L. x O. radicosa A.Rich. ex Hell. is between 60°F to 75°F (15°C to 24°C). Temperatures below 50°F (10°C) can cause the plant to become dormant, while temperatures above 80°F (27°C) can stress the plant and slow its growth. It is best to keep the plant in a climate-controlled environment for optimal growth.
Soil Requirements
Oxalis corniculata L. x O. radicosa A.Rich. ex Hell. prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter and slightly acidic. A pH range of 5.5 to 6.5 is optimal for the plant’s growth. A mixture of peat moss, perlite, and sand is a suitable potting mix. The soil should be kept evenly moist, but not waterlogged. Overwatering can cause root rot, while underwatering can cause the leaves to wilt and dry up.
Cultivation Methods
Oxalis corniculata L. x O. radicosa A.Rich. ex Hell. can be cultivated both indoors and outdoors. It prefers slightly acidic soil with a pH range of 5.5 to 6.5. It can be grown in pots or containers with well-draining soil. The plant requires partial to full sunlight to grow and develop properly.
Watering Needs
The Oxalis corniculata L. x O. radicosa A.Rich. ex Hell. plant requires moderate watering throughout the growing season. The soil should be kept evenly moist but not wet. Over-watering can lead to root rot, while under-watering can result in wilting and stunted growth. To avoid waterlogging, make sure the soil has proper drainage.
Fertilization
The Oxalis corniculata L. x O. radicosa A.Rich. ex Hell. plant requires regular fertilization during the growing season. Use a balanced fertilizer with equal parts nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Fertilize the plant every two weeks to promote healthy growth and development. During the dormant season, reduce fertilization to once every two months.
Pruning
Pruning the Oxalis corniculata L. x O. radicosa A.Rich. ex Hell. plant ensures healthy growth and development. Prune the plant after the growing season, when the leaves start to yellow and die off. Trim off the dead and damaged foliage to encourage new growth. Also, remove any leggy stems to promote fuller growth. Avoid over-pruning as it can cause stress to the plant and hinder its growth.
Propagation of Oxalis corniculata L. x O. radicosa A.Rich. ex Hell.
Oxalis corniculata L. x O. radicosa A.Rich. ex Hell., also known as procumbent yellow sorrel, is a low-growing, herbaceous plant that is commonly found in gardens, lawns, and waste areas. This plant can be propagated through various methods, such as through seeds, cuttings, and division.
Propagation through Seeds
Propagation through seeds is the most common method of propagating Oxalis corniculata L. x O. radicosa A.Rich. ex Hell. The seeds of this plant can be sown directly into the soil or started indoors. The best time to sow the seeds is in the spring or summer. The seeds need to be covered lightly with soil, and they should be kept moist until they germinate. The germination time takes around two weeks, depending on the growing conditions.
Propagation through Cuttings
Propagation through cuttings is another method of propagating Oxalis corniculata L. x O. radicosa A.Rich. ex Hell., and it is a quick way to produce new plants. The best time to take cuttings is in the spring or summer. Taking cuttings from the stem or the root is possible, and the cutting needs to be at least four inches long. The lower leaves need to be removed, and the cutting needs to be inserted into a container filled with a well-drained potting mix. The cutting needs to be kept moist, and it should start to root in two to three weeks.
Propagation through Division
Propagation through division is a simple method of propagating Oxalis corniculata L. x O. radicosa A.Rich. ex Hell. This method is best done in the spring or fall when the plant is not actively growing. The plant needs to be carefully dug up, and the root ball needs to be divided into several sections, ensuring that each section has some roots and leaves. Each divided section needs to be planted in a container or the ground, and it should be kept moist until it becomes established.
Disease and Pest Management for Oxalis corniculata L. x O. radicosa A.Rich. ex Hell.
Oxalis corniculata L. x O. radicosa A.Rich. ex Hell., also known as Creeping Woodsorrel, is a hardy perennial plant that is commonly grown for its attractive foliage and yellow flowers. However, like all plants, it is also susceptible to various diseases and pests that can affect its growth and overall health. Here's a guide to managing these issues:
Common Diseases
Fungal diseases - Creeping Woodsorrel is vulnerable to several fungal diseases such as Pythium root rot, Rhizoctonia root rot, and stem rot. These diseases can cause yellowing of leaves, wilting, and the plant's death. To manage fungal diseases:
- Avoid overwatering the plant and ensure good drainage
- Remove and destroy infected plant parts immediately to prevent the spread of the fungus
- Treat the plant with an appropriate fungicide
Viral diseases - Creeping Woodsorrel can be affected by viral diseases such as Tomato Spotted Wilt Virus. The symptoms include stunted growth, yellowing, and wilting. Once a plant is infected with a virus, it cannot be cured. To manage viral diseases:
- Remove and destroy infected plants immediately to prevent the spread of the virus
- Keep the garden area clean and free of weeds where viruses can harbor
- Use virus-free seedlings when planting new plants
Common Pests
Aphids - Aphids are common pests that feed on the sap of the plant, causing yellowing and curling of the leaves. To manage aphids:
- Spray a mixture of water, soap, and neem oil on the plant to remove the aphids
- Use insecticides as a last resort
Snails and slugs - Snails and slugs are also common pests that feed on the plant's leaves, leaving behind holes and slime trails. To manage snails and slugs:
- Handpick them early in the morning when they are active and dispose of them in soapy water
- Barriers such as copper tape or eggshells can be used around the plant to prevent them from reaching the plant
- Baits can be used to lure and kill them
By following these tips, you can ensure that your Creeping Woodsorrel plant stays healthy, vibrant, and pest-free for years to come.
