Origin
Oxalis massoniana T.M.Salter var. massoniana, also known as Masson's Woodsorrel, is a plant species that belongs to the Oxalidaceae family. It is native to China, where it can be found in the provinces of Anhui, Fujian, Guangdong, Guangxi, Guizhou, Hainan, Hubei, Hunan, Jiangsu, Jiangxi, Shanxi, Sichuan, Yunnan, and Zhejiang.
Common Names
Aside from Masson's Woodsorrel, the plant has other common names such as Yellow Oxalis, Pine Woodsorrel, and Lushan Oxalis. The name "Oxalis" comes from the Greek word "oxys," which means "sour" and pertains to the plant's sour taste.
Uses
Oxalis massoniana T.M.Salter var. massoniana has several uses. The plant's leaves and stems are edible, and it is used as a medicinal herb in traditional Chinese medicine. The root is used to treat fever, cough, and lung problems, while the leaves are used as a treatment for headaches, stomach problems, and inflammation. Additionally, the plant has ornamental value and can be grown as a ground cover or in hanging baskets.
General Appearance
The plant has a prostrate growth habit, with stems growing up to 70 centimeters long and forming dense mats. Its leaves are trifoliate and have a distinct clover-like appearance, with three heart-shaped leaflets. They are bright green and measure 1-4 centimeters long. The plant's flowers are yellow and have five petals arranged in a star shape. They bloom from June to August and are followed by cylindrical seed pods that measure up to 1.7 centimeters in length. The plant prefers moist and well-drained soils and can tolerate both full sun and partial shade.
Light Requirements
Oxalis massoniana T.M.Salter var. massoniana requires a moderate amount of sunlight. It prefers to be placed in a bright location but not in direct sunlight. If the plant is placed in a darker location, it will grow but won't bloom properly.
Temperature Requirements
The plant prefers cool and moist conditions. It can tolerate temperatures between 40-80°F. Avoid exposing the plant to hot and dry conditions as that will cause stunted growth or death of the plant.
Soil Requirements
Oxalis massoniana T.M.Salter var. massoniana prefers well-drained and slightly acidic soil with a pH of 5.5-6.5. The soil should be rich in organic matter and nutrients, and be able to retain moisture well. A mixture of peat moss, perlite, and loam soil can be used as potting mix for the plant.
Cultivation
Oxalis massoniana T.M.Salter var. massoniana is a perennial plant that can be grown outdoors as well as indoors. It’s a low-maintenance plant that requires partial shade to full sun to grow. The soil must be well-draining and rich in nutrients. Make sure that the soil pH level ranges from 5.5 to 6.5 for best results. To start growing this plant, sow the seeds in the soil, or you can transplant young plants outdoors or in pots.
Watering needs
The watering needs for Oxalis massoniana T.M.Salter var. massoniana are moderate, as this plant does not prefer to be too dry or too moist. Over-watering or under-watering can lead to problems such as root rot or stunted growth. Water the plant thoroughly only when the top layer of soil becomes dry to the touch. During the winter season, reduce the frequency of watering.
Fertilization
Oxalis massoniana T.M.Salter var. massoniana requires regular fertilization to thrive and produce healthy foliage. During the growing season, feed the plant with a balanced liquid fertilizer every two weeks. If using organic fertilizers, you can apply them every four to six weeks. For best results, dilute the fertilizer to half its strength and apply it during watering.
Pruning
Oxalis massoniana T.M.Salter var. massoniana requires minimal pruning, but it can be done to maintain the plant's shape and to remove any diseased or damaged foliage. Pruning can be done after the blooming season or when the plant becomes too leggy. To do this, use a sharp and sterile garden tool, such as pruning shears or scissors.
Propagation Method for Oxalis massoniana T.M.Salter var. massoniana
Oxalis massoniana T.M.Salter var. massoniana, commonly known as Masson's wood sorrel, is a plant species that is native to China and can be propagated by seeds, division, and cuttings.
Propagation by Seeds
The seeds of Oxalis massoniana T.M.Salter var. massoniana can be collected as soon as they are produced, which is usually from mid to late summer. Just like with most seeds, it is best to sow them immediately in well-draining soil that is kept moist.
Propagation by Division
Oxalis massoniana T.M.Salter var. massoniana can also be propagated by dividing the root clumps, which can be done at any time of the year. To divide, loosen the soil around the plant with a garden fork or trowel, and gently pull the clumps apart. Be sure that each clump has a few roots attached and replant them into a well-draining soil mix.
Propagation by Cuttings
Oxalis massoniana T.M.Salter var. massoniana can also be propagated by cuttings, which can be taken from the stems in the late spring or early summer. Cuttings should be around 3-4 inches long and need to be planted in a moist substrate. Once cuttings are planted, mulch around the cuttings with some form of organic matter to help retain moisture.
Disease management
Oxalis massoniana T.M.Salter var. massoniana is relatively disease-resistant, but there are a few ailments that can affect the plant:
Anthracnose
Anthracnose is a fungal disease that causes brown spots on the foliage. To manage this disease, remove and dispose of infected leaves and stems. Avoid watering the plant from overhead and apply a fungicide according to the manufacturer's instructions.
Powdery mildew
Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that appears as a white, powdery coating on the leaves and stems. To manage powdery mildew, remove and dispose of infected leaves and stems. Improve air circulation around the plant by spacing plants adequately. Apply a fungicide according to the manufacturer's instructions.
Pest management
There are several pests that can affect Oxalis massoniana T.M.Salter var. massoniana:
Spider mites
Spider mites are tiny pests that suck sap from the plant, causing yellowing and wilting of the leaves. To manage spider mites, rinse the plant with water regularly, or spray the plant with insecticidal soap. Also, consider using predatory mites to control spider mite populations.
Mealybugs
Mealybugs are small, white, cottony pests that suck sap from the plant. To manage mealybugs, remove and dispose of infected leaves and stems. Consider spraying the plant with insecticidal soap or using predatory insects such as ladybugs.
Slugs and snails
Slugs and snails feed on Oxalis massoniana T.M.Salter var. massoniana by chewing holes in the leaves and stems. To manage these pests, remove any debris around the plant that might provide them with shelter. Use slug and snail bait according to the manufacturer's instructions and consider using copper barriers to keep them away from the plants.
