Origin:
Oxalis hirta L. var. secunda (Jacq.) T.M.Salter is a herbaceous perennial plant that belongs to the Oxalidaceae family. It is native to South Africa and is commonly found in the provinces of Eastern and Western Cape.
Common Names:
This plant is commonly known as the Cape sorrel, the sourgrass, the pink wood sorrel, or simply Oxalis.
Uses:
This plant is mostly used for ornamental purposes in gardens, but it has also been historically used as a medicinal plant. Its leaves and stems contain high levels of oxalic acid, which gives it its sour taste and is also responsible for its medicinal properties. It has been used to treat various ailments, including fever, headache, stomach ache, and other digestive disorders. It would be consumed raw or brewed into a tea. However, due to its high oxalic acid content, it should be consumed in moderation. It was also a vital source of food for the indigenous people of South Africa during times of famine. The leaves and stems were consumed in small quantities as a source of vitamin C.
General Appearance:
The Oxalis hirta L. var. secunda (Jacq.) T.M.Salter plant has a compact and bushy growth habit, reaching heights of up to 30 cm. The leaves are trifoliate, with each leaflet being heart-shaped and measuring about 1-3cm long. The leaves, stems, and flowers of the plant are all hairy, giving it a fuzzy appearance. The flowers of the plant are delicate, pink, or purple in color and bloom from mid-spring to early summer. The fruits of the plant are small, round capsules that contain several seeds.
Light Requirements
Oxalis hirta L. var. secunda (Jacq.) T.M. Salter thrives in bright light. The plant needs a minimum of six hours of direct or partially shaded sunlight each day. Inadequate light is one of the leading causes of the plant’s slow growth and poor production. A shaded location may disrupt the plant's lush foliage and flowering cycles, so it is best to plant it in locations that get adequate sunlight.
Temperature Requirements
The Oxalis hirta L. var. secunda (Jacq.) T.M. Salter grows well within a moderate temperature range. It prefers warm temperatures ranging between 60-75°F during the daytime and cooler temperatures, about 55°F, at night. The plant is very adaptive and tolerant of climatic changes such as mild frost, but it does not thrive in extreme heat or freezing temperatures.
Soil Requirements
The Oxalis hirta L. var. secunda (Jacq.) T.M. Salter grows well in well-drained, humus-rich soil that is slightly acidic. The soil should have a pH ranging between 5.5 to 7, which is optimum for the plant's healthy growth. The soil should be loose enough to drain water quickly but compact enough to provide anchorage for the plant's roots. Organic compositions such as compost or aged cow manure are highly recommended when preparing the soil mix.
Cultivation Methods
Oxalis hirta L. var. secunda (Jacq.) T.M.Salter, also known as Pikey or Pink Shamrock, is a common ornamental plant that is easy to cultivate. It is best grown in a humid and warm environment, with moderate sunlight exposure. The plant prefers well-drained soil with a pH range between 5.5 and 7.5. The ideal planting time for Oxalis hirta L. var. secunda is in the spring, after the last frost date.
Watering Needs
Oxalis hirta L. var. secunda requires moderate watering, but it is essential to avoid overwatering. Overwatering is detrimental and may lead to root rot. Water the plant when the topsoil feels slightly dry. It is best to use room-temperature water to avoid shocking the plant. The plant prefers moist soil, but make sure the soil has sufficiently drained before the next watering.
Fertilization
Oxalis hirta L. var. secunda requires moderate fertilization during the growing season, from spring to fall. A balanced fertilizer with equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium is ideal. Fertilize the plant every two weeks, following the manufacturer's instructions. Limit fertilization in the winter to once every month or two, as the plant's growth is slower during this period.
Pruning
Pruning Oxalis hirta L. var. secunda is not necessary, but it can help to shape the plant and promote healthy growth. Prune the plant when the leaves begin to yellow or wilt. Use clean and sharp pruning shears to avoid damaging the plant. Remove any dead or damaged leaves and stems. Furthermore, removing spent blooms can indirectly promote new blooming and provide a visual appeal.
Propagation of Oxalis hirta L. var. secunda (Jacq.) T.M.Salter
Oxalis hirta L. var. secunda (Jacq.) T.M.Salter, commonly known as hairy woodsorrel, is a perennial plant that belongs to the Oxalidaceae family. This plant is native to North America and is suitable for growing in USDA hardiness zones 5-8. Propagation of Oxalis hirta can be done using several methods.
Propagation by Seed
Propagation of Oxalis hirta can be done using seeds, but it requires patience and care. The seeds should be collected from mature pods, which are usually found in August to October. The collected seeds should be sown immediately or stored in a cool and dry place.
To increase the germination rate, the seeds should be scarified, which involves nicking the seed coat with a knife, sandpaper, or hot water. After scarification, the seeds should be sown in a well-draining potting mix and covered lightly with soil. The pots should be kept moist and warm, and the germination should occur within 3-4 weeks.
Propagation by Division
Propagation of Oxalis hirta can also be done by dividing the clumps in early spring or fall. The rhizomes should be carefully dug up and separated by hand or using a sharp knife. Each division should have at least one healthy stem and a small section of the rhizome.
The divided sections should be replanted in a well-draining potting mix and watered thoroughly. The plants should be placed in a shaded area for a few weeks until new growth appears.
Propagation by Cuttings
Oxalis hirta can also be propagated by stem cuttings. The cuttings should be taken in late spring or early summer from healthy and mature plants. The cuttings should be about 5-7cm long and should be taken from the tips of the stems.
The cuttings should be dipped in rooting hormone and planted in a well-draining potting mix. The pot should be covered with a plastic bag or a glass jar to retain moisture and humidity. The cuttings should root in about 2-3 weeks and should be transferred to individual pots or the garden bed after that.
Propagation of Oxalis hirta is relatively easy and straightforward, and the methods mentioned above can be used to propagate the plant successfully.
Disease Management
The plant Oxalis hirta L. var. secunda (Jacq.) T.M.Salter is susceptible to various fungal and bacterial diseases. The most common diseases that affect this plant are:
- Leaf spot: This disease is characterized by the presence of brown or black spots on the leaves. To manage this disease, affected leaves should be removed and destroyed. Fungicides can also be applied to prevent the spread of the disease.
- Powdery mildew: This disease is caused by fungal spores that form a white powdery substance on the leaves. To manage this disease, infected plants should be sprayed with a fungicide. Proper air circulation and avoiding overcrowding of plants can also prevent powdery mildew.
- Root rot: This disease is caused by over-watering and poorly drained soils. To manage this disease, affected plants should be removed and the soil should be allowed to dry out before replanting. Fungicides can also be applied to prevent the spread of the disease.
Pest Management
The plant Oxalis hirta L. var. secunda (Jacq.) T.M.Salter is also susceptible to pest infestations. The most common pests that affect this plant are:
- Spider mites: These pests are tiny and can be identified by the presence of fine webbing on the plant. To manage this pest, plants should be sprayed with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Thrips: These pests are small, slender insects that feed on the foliage of the plant. To manage this pest, plants should be sprayed with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Aphids: These pests are small, pear-shaped insects that can be found on the undersides of leaves. To manage this pest, plants should be sprayed with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Ladybugs and lacewings are natural predators of aphids and can also be introduced to the plant.
