Overview
Oxalis europaea Jord. var. bushii (Small) Wieg. is a perennial plant species that belongs to the genus Oxalis, in the family Oxalidaceae. It is also known by its common name, Bush's Yellow Wood Sorrel.
Origin and Distribution
Oxalis europaea var. bushii is native to the southeastern United States particularly found in Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Louisiana, Mississippi, and South Carolina. It thrives in open, damp habitats such as swampy woods, bogs, and along stream banks.
Description
Bush's Yellow Wood Sorrel grows to be about 30-45 cm tall. It has a slender stem with a few branches that emerges from a basal rosette. The leaves are divided into three rounded leaflets that are slightly folded along the midrib and are hairless or sparsely hairy. The bright yellow flowers have five petals and are arranged in clusters at the tip of each stem. Flowers appear from March to July. The fruit is a capsule that contains several small seeds.
Uses
Oxalis europaea var. bushii is used as an ornamental plant and provides a bright yellow color to the garden. It is also known to have medicinal properties. The leaves are rich in Vitamin C and have been used to treat scurvy. The plant also contains compounds that help with digestion and alleviate stomach issues. However, it should be consumed in moderation due to the presence of oxalic acid, which can cause kidney stones.
Light Requirements
Oxalis europaea Jord. var. bushii (Small) Wieg. requires full sun to partial shade. It can grow in both bright and indirect light environments. However, too much exposure to direct sunlight may cause the leaves to dry up. On the other hand, too little light will stunt the growth of the plant.
Temperature Requirements
The optimal temperature for the growth of Oxalis europaea Jord. var. bushii (Small) Wieg. is between 15°C to 30°C. The plant is able to tolerate low temperature up to -2°C, but prolonged exposure to extreme cold conditions will result in damage or death of the plant. High temperatures above 35°C may also affect the growth and development of the plant.
Soil Requirements
Oxalis europaea Jord. var. bushii (Small) Wieg. prefers moist, well-drained soils with a pH range of 5.5 to 6.5. The soil should be rich in organic matter and have good drainage to prevent waterlogging. The plant can also tolerate sandy or loamy soils but may require more frequent watering in such conditions.
Cultivation
Oxalis europaea Jord. var. bushii (Small) Wieg. is a hardy plant that can adapt to various soil types and climates. However, it thrives best in well-drained soils that are rich in organic matter. The plant requires plenty of sunlight and can tolerate high temperatures.
It is important to note that Oxalis europaea Jord. var. bushii (Small) Wieg. is a perennial plant that can be propagated either through seed or division of the rootstock. Before planting, ensure that the soil is warm and moist enough to encourage growth.
Watering Needs
The plant requires moderate watering. It is important to water the plant deeply and frequently during the growing season, especially during dry spells. However, avoid over-watering as this can lead to rotting of the roots. During winter, reduce watering but do not let the soil dry out completely.
Fertilization
Oxalis europaea Jord. var. bushii (Small) Wieg. requires soil that is rich in organic matter. Fertilization should be done during the growing season using a slow-release fertilizer. Use the recommended dosage and make sure that the fertilizer has enough nitrogen, potassium, and phosphorus. Additionally, adding organic matter such as compost and well-rotted manure to the soil can help improve the soil's fertility.
Pruning
Pruning is not a regular requirement for Oxalis europaea Jord. var. bushii (Small) Wieg. However, the plant may benefit from occasional deadheading to remove spent flowers. This will help to promote more blooms and maintain a neat appearance. Additionally, you can remove any yellow or damaged leaves to keep the plant healthy. Remember to use clean and sharp pruning tools to avoid injuring the plant.
Propagation of Oxalis europaea Jord. var. bushii (Small) Wieg.
Oxalis europaea Jord. var. bushii (Small) Wieg., commonly known as Bush's wood sorrel, belongs to the family Oxalidaceae. This plant species is native to North America, specifically in the southeastern United States.
Propagation Methods
The propagation of Oxalis europaea Jord. var. bushii can be done by using its seeds, cuttings, and division.
Propagation by Seeds
Seeds of Oxalis europaea Jord. var. bushii can be obtained from mature plants during the fall months. After gathering the seeds, they should be dried and stored in a cool, dry place. Before planting, the seeds should be stratified for around three months to help break seed dormancy. This process can be done by placing the seeds in moist soil in a plastic bag or container, which should be stored in a refrigerator with a temperature range of 34-41°F. After stratification, the seeds can be planted in moist soil and exposed to bright light for germination.
Propagation by Cuttings
The stem cuttings of Oxalis europaea Jord. var. bushii should be taken during the active growth period, which is in the early summer. The cuttings should be around 4-6 inches long and treated with a rooting hormone powder before planting. These cuttings should be planted in well-draining soil that is kept moist and should be placed in an area that receives bright but indirect light until rooting occurs.
Propagation by Division
The division of mature Oxalis europaea Jord. var. bushii plants can be done through careful digging and separation of the root system. This should be done during the early spring or fall. The divided plant sections should be planted in well-draining soil that is kept moist and placed in an area that receives bright but indirect light.
Disease and Pest Management for Oxalis europaea Jord. var. bushii (Small) Wieg.
Oxalis europaea Jord. var. bushii (Small) Wieg. has a few potential diseases and pests that can harm the plant. Here's how to manage them:
Pests
Spider Mites: These pests are tiny, spider-like creatures that suck out plant sap, causing leaves to dry up and flowers to fall off. To manage spider mites, spray the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Repeat this process every 7-10 days until the spider mites disappear.
Aphids: These small, soft-bodied insects are found in colonies on the undersides of leaves or at the ends of new growth. They cause distorted leaves and flowers by sucking out the sap. To manage aphids, spray the plant with a forceful stream of water to dislodge them, or apply insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Diseases
Rust: Rust is a fungal disease that appears as rusty spots on the leaves. Infected leaves may yellow and fall off. To manage rust, remove the infected leaves and avoid overhead watering. If the problem persists, apply a fungicide such as copper octanoate.
Botrytis: Botrytis is a fungal disease that causes a grey mold on leaves and flowers. Infected plant tissue will rot and die. To manage botrytis, remove infected plant tissue and improve airflow around the plant by pruning it. Avoid overhead watering, and apply a fungicide if necessary.
By being vigilant and addressing pest and disease issues early on, you can help your Oxalis europaea Jord. var. bushii (Small) Wieg. plant stay healthy and thrive.
