Overview
Oxalis duriuscula Schltr., commonly known as the "Sharp-fruited Yellow Sorrel," is a perennial plant that belongs to the family Oxalidaceae. It is known for its edible qualities and its attractive, bright yellow flowers that bloom profusely during spring and summer.Origin
Oxalis duriuscula Schltr. is native to South America, particularly around the Andes Mountains in Peru and Bolivia. However, it has also been introduced and naturalized in many other parts of the world, including Africa, Asia, Australia, Europe, and North America.Common Names
The plant goes by many common names, including "Sharp-fruited Yellow Sorrel," "Faucons," "Oca," "Acedera," "Sourgrass," and "Yellow Wood Sorrel."Appearance
Oxalis duriuscula Schltr. is a herbaceous perennial that grows up to 40 centimeters in height and can spread up to 30 centimeters in width. The plant has delicate, clover-like leaves that are green and deeply serrated, and each leaf is typically composed of three leaflets. The bright yellow flowers are small, with five petals and bright yellow centers, and they bloom abundantly through the spring and summer months. The stems of the plant are thin, branching, and reddish in color.Uses
Oxalis duriuscula Schltr. is known for its culinary uses. The leaves, stems, and flowers of the plant are all edible, and have a sour and tangy flavor. They can be eaten raw in salads, or cooked as a vegetable in soups and stews. The plant is also used in traditional medicine as a remedy for a variety of ailments, including stomachaches, fever, and cough. Additionally, the plant serves as an ornamental plant in gardens and landscapes, adding a bright pop of color to any area where it is grown.Growth Conditions for Oxalis duriuscula Schltr.
Oxalis duriuscula Schltr., commonly known as pink wood-sorrel, is a perennial plant that is native to Africa and prefers warm, humid conditions for optimal growth. Let's take a closer look at the specific growth conditions this plant requires.
Light Requirements
Oxalis duriuscula Schltr. thrives in partial to full shade, with dappled sunlight being ideal. Direct sunlight can scorch the leaves and cause damage, so it is crucial to provide some kind of shade, especially during the hottest part of the day. However, insufficient light can result in weak, spindly growth and poor flowering.
Temperature Range
The ideal temperature range for Oxalis duriuscula Schltr. is between 60 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit (15 to 24 degrees Celsius). This plant can tolerate cooler temperatures, but it does not do well in extreme heat, which can cause the leaves to wilt and the plant to become stressed.
Soil Requirements
Oxalis duriuscula Schltr. thrives in well-draining, fertile, and slightly acidic soil. The ideal pH range is between 5.5 and 6.5, and the soil should be rich in organic matter. The plant is also sensitive to high levels of soluble salts, so it's best to avoid using fertilizer with a high concentration of nutrients.
Watering Needs
Oxalis duriuscula Schltr. requires consistent moisture but does not like to sit in soggy soil. Watering once a week is generally sufficient, but the frequency may need to be increased during prolonged periods of drought or in very hot weather. It's best to water the plant deeply, allowing the soil to become saturated, and then let it dry out slightly before watering again.
Conclusion
Providing the proper growth conditions for Oxalis duriuscula Schltr. is essential for its health and vitality. This plant requires partial to full shade, cool to moderate temperatures, well-draining fertile soil that is slightly acidic, and consistent moisture. With the right care, the pink wood-sorrel can thrive and add color and interest to any garden or indoor space.
Cultivation
Oxalis duriuscula Schltr., also known as Wood Sorrel, is a lovely flowering plant that is native to South America. It thrives in USDA hardiness zones 9-11 and can be grown as a perennial there.
The plant can be propagated via seeds or rhizomes, with the latter being the easier way to grow Oxalis duriuscula Schltr. The rhizomes should be buried two to three inches in a well-draining potting mix.
Watering Needs
Proper watering is essential for the healthy growth of Oxalis duriuscula Schltr. It prefers moist but well-drained soil. Therefore, it is essential to water the plant regularly but avoid waterlogging the soil.
Additionally, the plant may start to wilt if it receives too little water. In contrast, overwatering can result in root rot, which can be fatal to the plant.
Fertilization
Oxalis duriuscula Schltr. requires frequent fertilization to promote healthy growth. It requires a balanced fertilizer with equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Apply the fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season, which runs from spring until summer.
It is important to follow the instructions on the fertilizer's package carefully to avoid over-fertilizing the plant.
Pruning
Oxalis duriuscula Schltr. does not require frequent pruning. However, it is recommended to remove any yellow or dead leaves to maintain the plant's appearance.
Additionally, the plant can become leggy if it does not receive adequate light. If this happens, it is advisable to prune the plant to encourage bushier growth.
Propagation of Oxalis duriuscula Schltr.
Oxalis duriuscula Schltr. can be propagated using a variety of methods including division, cuttings, and seed.
Division
Division is the easiest propagation method for Oxalis duriuscula Schltr. It involves dividing the plant into smaller sections, each with their own roots and leaves. To propagate using division, carefully lift the plant from the soil and gently separate the roots and leaves into smaller sections. Repot each section into a separate pot with fresh soil.
Cuttings
Cuttings can also be used to propagate Oxalis duriuscula Schltr. To propagate using cuttings, take a stem cutting with at least two or three leaves. Remove any lower leaves and place the cutting into a pot with moist, well-draining soil. Water the cutting regularly and keep it in a warm, bright location until new growth appears.
Seed
Seed propagation is also possible for Oxalis duriuscula Schltr. The plant produces small, round seeds that can be sown in pots filled with moist, well-draining soil. Cover the seeds lightly with soil and keep them in a warm, bright location until they germinate. It is important to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged during the germination period.
Disease and Pest Management for Oxalis duriuscula Schltr.
Oxalis duriuscula Schltr., commonly known as the "hardy wood sorrel", is generally a disease-resistant plant, but it can still be infested by several pests, leading to its deterioration and eventual death. Here are some common diseases and pests that can affect the plant and ways to manage them:
Diseases:
1. Fungal Infections: Fungal infections such as powdery mildew, rust, and leaf spot can affect Oxalis duriuscula, leading to leaf discoloration, wilting, and defoliation.
Management: Remove the affected parts of the plant and discard them safely. Ensure proper air circulation and avoid waterlogging to prevent the spread of fungal infections. Apply a preventive fungicide spray as per the instructions to stop the spread of the infection.
Pests:
1. Spider Mites: Spider mites infest Oxalis duriuscula leaves, resulting in discoloration and stippling. They can also cause leaf drop and plant death.
Management: Prune infected leaves and remove them from the plant immediately. Use an insecticidal soap or neem oil spray to keep spider mites in check.
2. Aphids: Aphids are tiny insects that suck plant sap from leaves and stems, leading to leaf curling, yellowing, and stunted growth.
Management: Rinse off aphids with a strong jet of water or spray them with insecticidal soap. Introduce natural predators like ladybugs and lacewings to control aphid infestations.
3. Mealybugs: Mealybugs are small, white, cottony insects that infest Oxalis duriuscula foliage, leading to yellowing and dropping of leaves. They can also transmit viruses from plant to plant.
Management: Use a soft brush to remove the mealybugs from the plant and spray it with a neem oil solution. Ensure that the plant is not over-fertilized, as mealybugs thrive on new growth.
By identifying early signs of disease and pest infestations, and using the appropriate control measures, you can keep your Oxalis duriuscula plant healthy and vibrant.
