Origin
Oxalis fontana Bunge var. bushii (Small) Hara is a plant species that belongs to the Oxalidaceae family. It is native to the eastern part of the United States, particularly in states including Virginia, North Carolina, and Tennessee.
Common Names
Oxalis fontana Bunge var. bushii is commonly known as Bush's wood sorrel or Appalachian woodsorrel due to its association with the Appalachian Mountains. Other common names for the plant include mountain wood sorrel, violet wood sorrel, and smooth yellow wood sorrel.
Uses
Oxalis fontana Bunge var. bushii has a number of medicinal uses. The plant has been traditionally used to treat diarrhea and gastrointestinal issues due to its astringent properties. It has also been used to treat fever and headaches.
In addition, Bush's wood sorrel is used as a natural dye, producing yellow and green colors. The plant has also been used in traditional cuisine as a souring agent, similar to lemon juice or vinegar.
General Appearance
Oxalis fontana Bunge var. bushii is a small, herbaceous perennial plant that grows up to 25 cm in height. It has trifoliate leaves that are typically green or reddish-brown in color. The plant produces white or pink flowers that bloom from May to June. The fruit of the plant is a capsule that contains several small, black seeds.
Overall, Bush's wood sorrel is an attractive plant that adds a touch of color to any garden or natural landscape.
Light Requirements
Oxalis fontana Bunge var. bushii typically grows in partially shaded areas. It requires bright light but cannot tolerate full sunlight for extended periods of time. If grown indoors, place the plant in a well-lit area near a window that receives indirect light.
Temperature Requirements
This plant prefers moderate temperatures ranging from 15 °C to 25 °C. It cannot withstand extreme temperatures, such as frost or high heat. Therefore, it is essential to maintain a stable temperature for the plant's optimal growth.
Soil Requirements
Oxalis fontana Bunge var. bushii grows best in well-draining, fertile soil with a slightly acidic pH of 5.5-6.5. A good mixture of peat moss, sand, and perlite is ideal for growing this plant. Additionally, it is essential to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. The correct soil moisture content is crucial to prevent root rot, which can lead to plant death.
Cultivation methods
Oxalis fontana Bunge var. bushii (Small) Hara is a perennial plant that is best grown in locations with partial or full sun. It is a hardy plant that thrives in moist, well-draining soil with a pH ranging from 6.0 to 7.5. The plant should be planted at a depth of about 2 to 3 inches.
To grow this plant, you should dig a hole that is twice as wide as the root ball and place it in the ground. Gently firm the soil around the base of the plant and add enough water to moisten the soil. Ensure that the plant receives plenty of sunshine and keep the soil consistently moist.
Watering needs
Oxalis fontana Bunge var. bushii (Small) Hara requires consistent and regular watering to maintain its growth and health. During the summer season or any other periods of high heat, you need to increase the frequency of watering to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. You can check the soil moisture by inserting a finger into the soil at a depth of about 1 inch. Water it if the soil feels dry.
Fertilization
Fertilizing Oxalis fontana Bunge var. bushii (Small) Hara would reinforce the richness of the soil and provide the necessary nutrients required for its healthy growth. You can use a balanced fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during the growing season. The fertilizer should be added to damp soil and then lightly watered to distribute the nutrients evenly. Avoid over-fertilizing as this could risk the plant's health.
Pruning
Pruning is crucial to maintain the shape of Oxalis fontana Bunge var. bushii (Small) Hara. The best time to prune this plant is during the fall after it has finished flowering and the foliage has died back. While pruning, ensure to use clean and sharp pruning tools to minimize the risk of spreading diseases. Cut back any dead or weak stems to near-ground level. This practice helps to encourage new growth and maintain the size and shape of the plant.
Propagation of Oxalis Fontana Bunge var. bushii (Small) Hara
Oxalis Fontana Bunge var. bushii (Small) Hara, commonly known as Violet wood-sorrel, is a perennial plant that belongs to the Oxalidaceae family. This plant is indigenous to North America and can be propagated through various methods.
Division
Division is a common method of propagating Oxalis Fontana Bunge var. bushii (Small) Hara. This involves separating the plant into smaller sections and replanting them into new soil. The ideal time for division is during the plant's growing season in the spring or early summer.
To successfully propagate through division, carefully dig up the plant and separate the roots. Ensure that each new section has enough leaves and roots to sustain itself. The new plants should be planted in well-draining soil and watered regularly.
Seed Propagation
Propagation through seeds is another method for propagating Oxalis Fontana Bunge var. bushii (Small) Hara. This involves collecting the seeds from the mature plant and planting them in a seed tray or directly in well-draining soil.
The seeds should be sown in late autumn, early winter or early spring. They should be planted about ¼ inch deep and kept moist until they germinate. Once the seeds have germinated, thin out the seedlings to allow space for growth.
Stem Cuttings
Propagation through stem cuttings is possible with Oxalis Fontana Bunge var. bushii (Small) Hara. This involves taking a cutting of the stem and planting it in well-draining soil.
The cuttings should be taken in the spring or summer and planted in a mix of sand and perlite. The cutting should be kept moist and placed in indirect sunlight until it develops roots. Once roots have established, the plant can be transplanted into a pot or garden.
Bulbs
Oxalis Fontana Bunge var. bushii (Small) Hara can also be propagated using bulbs. The bulbs can be planted in well-draining soil and placed in a cool, dry place until the next growing season.
To propagate through bulbs, dig up the mature plant and separate the bulbs. Ensure that each bulb has enough stem and roots to sustain itself. Plant the bulbs in well-draining soil and water regularly.
Overall, Oxalis Fontana Bunge var. bushii (Small) Hara can be propagated through division, seed propagation, stem cuttings, and bulbs. By following the right method, one can successfully propagate this plant and enjoy its beautiful blooms year after year.
Disease Management
Although Oxalis fontana Bunge var. bushii is a relatively hardy plant, it can still be affected by various diseases. Here are some common diseases that can affect the plant and ways to manage them:
Fungal Diseases
Fungal diseases, such as powdery mildew and rust, can affect the leaves of the plant and cause them to yellow and fall off. To manage fungal diseases, try the following:
- Thin out the plant to encourage air circulation
- Water the plant at the base to avoid getting the leaves wet
- Treat the plant with a fungicide
Bacterial Diseases
Bacterial diseases, such as crown rot, can cause the plant to wilt and eventually die. Here are some ways to manage bacterial diseases:
- Remove infected plants and destroy them
- Disinfect any tools used on infected plants
- Water the plant at the base to avoid getting the leaves wet
Pest Management
While not commonly affected by pests, Oxalis fontana Bunge var. bushii can sometimes be affected by the following pests:
Aphids
Aphids can be easily identified as tiny insects on the foliage of the plant. They can cause the plant to distort and stunt its growth. Here are some ways to manage aphids:
- Spray the plant with water to dislodge the aphids
- Introduce beneficial insects, such as ladybugs, to eat the aphids
- Use insecticidal soap to control the aphids
Spider Mites
Spider mites are very small and are often difficult to detect. They can cause the leaves to yellow and dry out. Here are some ways to manage spider mites:
- Spray the plant with water to dislodge the spider mites
- Introduce beneficial insects, such as predatory mites, to eat the spider mites
- Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control the spider mites
