Overview
Oxalis divergens Eckl. & Zeyh. is a perennial plant species that belongs to the family Oxalidaceae. It is commonly known as the spreading wood sorrel and is native to South Africa.
Appearance
The spreading wood sorrel has a low-growing habit with stems that are only a few centimeters tall. The leaves are trifoliate (three leaflets), and each leaflet is heart-shaped with a notched tip. The leaflets are dark green on top, while the undersides are slightly lighter in color. The flowers are white or pink and have five petals. They bloom in spring and summer, and the fruit that follows is a cylindrical capsule.
Uses
The spreading wood sorrel has several uses, both culinary and medicinal. The leaves have a sour, citrus-like flavor and are often eaten raw or cooked in South African cuisine. In traditional medicine, the plant has been used to treat numerous ailments, including fever, coughs, and digestive issues. The plant contains oxalic acid, which can be toxic in large quantities but is safe to consume in moderation.
The spreading wood sorrel is also popular among gardeners due to its attractive appearance and easy-to-grow nature. It is used in rock gardens, borders, and as ground cover, where it adds a splash of color with its pink or white flowers.
Light Requirements
Oxalis divergens Eckl. & Zeyh. performs best in partial shade to full sun. However, it may suffer from leaf scorch if exposed to intense sunlight and dry soil. Therefore, it is recommended to provide this plant with dappled sunlight to ensure its optimal growth and development.
Temperature Requirements
Oxalis divergens Eckl. & Zeyh. is a native plant of southern Africa and has adapted to a wide range of temperature conditions. Nevertheless, it thrives best in warm to hot temperatures, ranging from 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F). If the temperature goes beyond this range, the plant may experience wilting, leaf drop, or stunted growth.
Soil Requirements
Oxalis divergens Eckl. & Zeyh. prefers well-draining soils that are rich in organic matter. It can tolerate mildly acidic to mildly alkaline soils with a pH range of 5.5 to 7.5. However, the type of soil is not critical for this plant's growth as long as it is not waterlogged or compacted. Ideally, the soil should be moist but not waterlogged, and the plant must be watered regularly to maintain optimal soil moisture.
Cultivation Methods for Oxalis Divergens Eckl. & Zeyh.
Oxalis divergens Eckl. & Zeyh. plant is a robust and adaptable plant species that can grow in various soil types and climatic conditions. This plant thrives best in well-draining soils with a slightly acidic pH. To cultivate this plant, start by preparing the soil by adding organic matter like compost or well-rotted manure to enhance soil structure, fertility, and water retention capacity.
After preparing the soil, sow the Oxalis divergens Eckl. & Zeyh. seeds in a location with partial to full sun exposure. Sow the seeds 2-3 mm deep into the soil and cover them with soil. Ensure that you water the seeds enough to maintain soil moisture levels for proper germination. Germination typically takes 2-3 weeks.
Watering Needs for Oxalis Divergens Eckl. & Zeyh.
Oxalis divergens Eckl. & Zeyh. plant requires moderate watering. Water the plant regularly but ensure that you do not overwater or underwater it. Overwatering can lead to root rot, while underwatering can result in stunted growth and wilting. Water the plant deeply enough to saturate the soil but avoid waterlogging the soil.
Always check the soil moisture levels before watering by inserting your finger into the soil. If the top 2-3 inches of soil feel dry, it's time to water the plant. During the rainy season, reduce watering frequency to avoid waterlogging the soil.
Fertilization for Oxalis Divergens Eckl. & Zeyh.
Oxalis divergens Eckl. & Zeyh. plant requires regular fertilization to support healthy growth and development. Apply a balanced fertilizer once per month during the growing season. Use a slow-release organic fertilizer for sustainable growth.
Avoid over-fertilizing as it can lead to excessive leaf growth at the expense of flower production. Follow the manufacturer's recommended application rates to avoid causing nutrient imbalances.
Pruning Oxalis Divergens Eckl. & Zeyh.
Oxalis divergens Eckl. & Zeyh. plant does not require much pruning, but removing dead or yellowing leaves can help maintain its appearance. Cut back the dead or yellowing leaves with a sharp, sterile pair of scissors or pruning shears to keep the plant looking healthy and vibrant.
If the plant has grown leggy or overgrown, prune it back by up to a third of its size to stimulate bushier and compact growth. Prune the plant during the dormant season when growth has slowed down.
Propagation of Oxalis divergens Eckl. & Zeyh.
Oxalis divergens Eckl. & Zeyh. can be propagated through several methods including division, seeds, and cuttings.
Division
The most common propagation method for Oxalis divergens Eckl. & Zeyh. is division. This process involves dividing the plant into smaller sections, each of which can grow into a separate plant. It's best to do this in spring when the plant is actively growing. To propagate using division, carefully lift the plant out of the soil and gently separate the clumps with a sharp knife or scissors. Replant each section into a pot or a new area of the garden with well-draining soil.
Seeds
Oxalis divergens Eckl. & Zeyh. can also be propagated through seeds. Collect seeds from the plant after the flowers have faded and the seed pods have dried out. Sow the seeds in a pot filled with well-draining soil. Cover the seeds with a thin layer of soil and keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Place the pot in a warm, brightly lit area. The seeds should germinate in two to three weeks.
Cuttings
Cuttings are another propagation method for Oxalis divergens Eckl. & Zeyh. This involves taking a section of stem from the plant and encouraging it to grow roots. To propagate using cuttings, choose a stem that is at least four inches long and has several leaves. Remove the leaves from the bottom half of the stem and dip the cut end in rooting hormone. Plant the stem in a pot filled with well-draining soil and water it thoroughly. Cover the pot with a plastic bag to create a greenhouse-like environment and keep it in a warm, brightly lit area. The cuttings should root within six to eight weeks.
Disease Management
Oxalis divergens Eckl. & Zeyh. might suffer from several diseases, including fungal infections such as root, stem, and leaf rot, rust, powdery mildew, and leaf spot.
The best practice for preventing the development of fungal diseases is to increase air circulation and avoid watering over the foliage. It's vital to ensure that the plant has enough access to light and do not crowd them. If fungal diseases appear, the diseased plant parts must be removed immediately, and soil must be treated with a fungicide.
Pest Management
Several pests might affect Oxalis divergens Eckl. & Zeyh., including spider mites, aphids, and mealybugs.
Spider mites are a common pest, which might be challenging to detect initially. They appear as small white or red dots and form webbing. When a spider mite infestation is detected, it's vital to isolate the plant and treat the plant with insecticidal soap. Make sure the entire plant is covered with the soap as mites can thrive under plant parts that are left untreated.
Aphids might appear in large numbers and suck sap out of the plant that results in stunted growth and distorted leaves. In case of an aphid infestation, a swift squish with gloved hands can limit the damage. Another strategy is to spray the affected plant with water that can wash away the pests. Neem oil can also be used to control an aphid infestation.
Mealybugs appear as tiny white, cotton-like spots clustered on the stem of the plant. They feed on the sap and excrete honeydew that can support the growth of sooty mold. These pests can be cleaned using a cotton swab soaked in alcohol. Similar to spider mites, isolation and insecticidal soap can be used to prevent their return.
