Overview of Oxalis incarnata L.
Oxalis incarnata L. also known as the "Crimson wood-sorrel," is a flowering plant belonging to the Oxalidaceae family, which is native to South America. The plant is commonly found in Bolivia, Argentina, and Peru, and it takes its name from the Greek word "oxys," which means sour or acidic. The plant's foliage and flowers have a distinct sour taste that makes them ideal for culinary and medicinal use.
The Common Names of Oxalis incarnata L.
Oxalis incarnata L. is commonly known by different local names in different regions where it grows. In Peru, it is called "Miner's Lettuce" due to its use as a salad green by miners. In Bolivia, it is called the "Sorrel Wood" as it is similar in taste to sorrel. It is also called the "Amazonian Sorrel" in some regions of South America.
How Oxalis incarnata L. Looks like
The plant grows up to a height of about 30 cm and has three-part leaves with a deep green color. It produces flowers that are pink, purple, or white, and they have distinct dark veins. The leaves and stem of the Crimson wood-sorrel are edible, and they have a sour taste due to the presence of oxalic acid in the plant. The plant has a tuberous root, which allows it to store nutrients and survive in dry soil conditions.
The Uses of Oxalis incarnata L.
Oxalis incarnata L. has several culinary and medicinal uses. The sour taste of the plant makes it an excellent ingredient in salads and soups, especially in the Andean region. In Mexico, the plant is used in the preparation of salsa verde, which is a traditional condiment used in many Mexican dishes. The plant is rich in vitamin C and antioxidants, making it ideal for boosting the immune system and preventing diseases such as scurvy.
The plant also has medicinal properties and has been used for the treatment of various ailments such as fever, diarrhea, and stomach ulcers. The leaves and stem of the plant contain flavonoids, which have anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties, making them an effective treatment for minor wounds and skin infections. In traditional medicine, the plant is used for its diuretic properties, which help in treating urinary tract infections.
Light Requirements
Oxalis incarnata L. plants require a moderate level of light to grow properly. They thrive well in indirect bright light but can also tolerate partial shade. If the plant is exposed to direct sunlight for too long, it can cause damage to leaves.
Temperature Requirements
The suitable temperature for growing Oxalis incarnata L. ranges between 50°F to 77°F (10°C to 25°C), and this plant thrives well in warm temperatures. Anything below 50°F is not conducive to the growth of this plant, and it may become dormant or stop growing entirely. In warmer temperatures, this plant will need frequent watering to keep the soil moist.
Soil Requirements
The soil requirements for growing Oxalis incarnata L. is well-draining soil. It should not be too dense, compact or waterlogged. The soil should be nutrient-rich, and the pH level should range between 5.5 to 6.5. A mixture of loam, sand and peat is suitable for this plant. This plant does not tolerate salty soils or alkalinity well.
Cultivation Methods of Oxalis incarnata L.
Oxalis incarnata L. is a lovely plant, and it is quite easy to cultivate. The plant prefers a well-drained soil that is slightly acidic to neutral with a pH of 6.0-7.0. The temperature range should be between 40 and 60°F, and the plant usually grows best in partial to full shade.
The seeds of the Oxalis incarnata L. can be sown in containers in the early spring and should be kept in a warm and moist environment until germination. After germination, the seedlings can be transplanted into the garden or a raised bed.
Watering Needs of Oxalis incarnata L.
Watering the Oxalis incarnata L. can be tricky. Overwatering can lead to root rot, while under-watering can cause the leaves to wilt and die. The plant requires regular watering, but it should not be left sitting in water for an extended period.
It is better to allow the soil to dry out slightly between watering, which will help prevent root rot and also encourage the plant to develop a stronger root system. During periods of hot and dry weather, the plant may require more frequent watering.
Fertilization of Oxalis incarnata L.
Fertilizing the Oxalis incarnata L. can help it grow better and produce more blooms, but it is not necessary. If you choose to fertilize, use a balanced fertilizer with an N-P-K ratio of 10-10-10 or 20-20-20. Apply the fertilizer once a month, during the growing season of spring through fall.
It is recommended to dilute the fertilizer to half the strength, as too much nitrogen can cause leggy growth and fewer flowers. Stop fertilizing in the fall to help the plant prepare for dormancy in the winter.
Pruning of Oxalis incarnata L.
Pruning the Oxalis incarnata L. can be done to remove dead or damaged leaves and to keep the plant compact. Dead leaves should be removed as soon as possible to prevent the spread of disease. The plant can also be pruned after blooming to encourage more blooms later on.
The best time to prune the plant is in the late winter or early spring before new growth begins. This will allow you to see the plant's shape and structure, making it easier to remove any dead or damaged leaves or stems. Additionally, removing spent flowers can also promote healthy growth and encourage reblooming.
Propagation of Oxalis incarnata L.
Oxalis incarnata L. is commonly known as pink wood-sorrel or windowbox wood-sorrel, and is a species of flowering plant in the family Oxalidaceae. This plant is native to South America and Central America, and is widely cultivated as an ornamental plant around the world. Propagation of Oxalis incarnata L. can be easily done through several methods.
Propagating Oxalis incarnata L. through seeds
The easiest method to propagate Oxalis incarnata L. is through seeds. The seeds of this plant are easily available through online stores or garden centers. Generally, oxalis seeds are small and need to be sown in a well-draining potting mix. The seeds should be sown in moist soil, and covered lightly with soil or vermiculite. Keep the soil moist, but not wet, and ensure that the container in which they are sown is placed in a warm and bright location. Germination typically takes around two weeks.
Propagating Oxalis incarnata L. through division
Another method to propagate Oxalis incarnata L. is through division. This method is suitable for mature plants that have become overgrown, and involves separating the plant bulbs into smaller sections. The best time to divide the plant is in the fall or early spring, when the plant is dormant. Dig up the plant carefully and separate the bulbs so that each new section has at least one healthy bulb. Replant the new plant sections immediately in well-draining potting mix and water well.
Propagating Oxalis incarnata L. through cuttings
Oxalis incarnata L. can also be propagated through stem cuttings. Select a healthy, non-flowering stem and cut it to around 4-6 inches in length. Remove the bottom leaves and dip the cut end of the stem in rooting hormone powder. Place the cutting in moist soil, and keep the soil moist but not wet. Cover the cutting with a plastic bag to retain moisture, and place it in a warm and bright location. In about 4-6 weeks, the cutting should start developing roots and can be transplanted to a larger container.
Disease and Pest Management for Oxalis incarnata L.
Oxalis incarnata L., commonly known as pink woodsorrel, is a beautiful plant that belongs to the oxalis family. It is easy to care for but can be susceptible to various diseases and pests.
Common Diseases
One of the most common diseases that affect Oxalis incarnata L. is powdery mildew. Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that appears as a white or grayish powder on the leaves, stems, and flowers of the plant. To manage powdery mildew, remove the affected parts of the plant, apply a fungicide, and maintain proper air circulation around the plant.
Another disease that can affect Oxalis incarnata L. is leaf spot. Leaf spot appears as brown or black spots on the leaves of the plant. This disease is caused by a fungus and can be managed by removing the affected plant parts, practicing good sanitation, and applying a fungicide.
Common Pests
Oxalis incarnata L. can also be affected by various pests such as aphids, spider mites, and thrips. Aphids are small insects that usually appear on the undersides of the leaves. They suck the sap out of the plant and can cause distorted growth and yellowing of the leaves. To manage aphids, wash the plant with soapy water or use insecticidal soap.
Spider mites are tiny pests that can infest Oxalis incarnata L. and spin webs on the plant. They suck the sap out of the leaves, causing them to turn yellow and then brown. To manage spider mites, wash the plant with soapy water, maintain proper humidity levels, and use a miticide if necessary.
Thrips are tiny insects that cause scarring and deformation of the leaves. To manage thrips, remove the affected parts of the plant, apply an insecticide, and maintain proper air circulation around the plant.
It is important to regularly inspect your Oxalis incarnata L. for any signs of disease or pests. Early detection and management can prevent the spread of disease and save your plant.
