Overview of Oxalis Multicaulis Eckl. & Zeyh.
Oxalis multicaulis is a species of plant that belongs to the family Oxalidaceae, commonly found in South Africa. It is also commonly referred to as many-stemmed wood sorrel, or many-stem oxalis, primarily due to its many branches and leaves that resemble that of a clover.
Appearance of Oxalis Multicaulis Eckl. & Zeyh.
Often growing as a shrub, Oxalis multicaulis branches out to form a thick bush that can grow up to a height of 1.5m tall. Its leaves are trifoliate, consisting of three heart-shaped leaflets, each about 5 cm in size. The leaves are a dark glossy green on top and often form clusters at the end of long stems. The flowers, pink or white in color, grow in bunches at the end of the stems and bloom during the spring and early summer season.
Uses of Oxalis Multicaulis Eckl. & Zeyh.
Oxalis multicaulis has various medicinal uses in traditional South African medicine. The leaves of the plant are used to treat numerous ailments like rheumatism, sore throats, and headaches. The plant is also used to reduce fever and inflammation, while the roots are used in traditional medicine to induce labor in women.
Moreover, as a plant that can tolerate dry conditions and is drought-resistant, Oxalis multicaulis can be grown in gardens or used in landscaping in drought-prone areas. Its attractive foliage and beautiful flowers make it a popular ornamental plant for gardens and is commonly used in parks and domestic gardens.
Lastly, various parts of the plant are also used as a food source. The small edible bulbs of the plant are said to be sweet and juicy and often consumed raw, while the leaves are used in salads or cooked as a vegetable dish.
Light Requirements
Oxalis multicaulis Eckl. & Zeyh. typically grow in areas with bright, but indirect sunlight. Direct sunlight can burn the leaves and cause wilting. In indoor settings, placing the plant near a south-facing window can provide enough sunlight. Outdoor settings must be monitored so that the plant does not receive too much sunlight.
Temperature Requirements
The ideal temperature range for Oxalis multicaulis Eckl. & Zeyh. is between 60-80°F (15-27°C). During the night, the temperature range should not dip below 50°F (10°C), which can lead to plant damage and death. Temperature fluctuations should be avoided and the plant should be kept in a stable and consistent environment.
Soil Requirements
Oxalis multicaulis Eckl. & Zeyh. prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil should be slightly acidic with a pH range between 5.5-6.5. The plant must be watered frequently, but not to the point of waterlogging as the plant can be very sensitive to overwatering. To improve drainage, perlite or sand can be added to the soil mix. Fertilization should occur during the active growing season and should be done with a balanced, all-purpose fertilizer.
Cultivation Methods:
Oxalis multicaulis Eckl. & Zeyh. is a hardy plant, and it grows well in full sun to partial shade. It is adaptable to any soil type, but it grows best in well-draining organic soil, rich in nutrients. The soil pH should be slightly acidic to slightly alkaline, ranging from 6 to 7.5. The plant can be propagated from seeds, stem cuttings, or by division.
Watering Needs:
The watering needs of Oxalis multicaulis Eckl. & Zeyh. depend on the weather, soil type, and plant growth stage. During the growing season, the plant needs regular watering to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Overwatering can cause root rot, and underwatering can cause the plant to wilt and die. Water the plant deeply at least once a week, more often under hot or dry conditions. During the dormant period, reduce watering and allow the soil to dry out slightly between watering.
Fertilization:
Oxalis multicaulis Eckl. & Zeyh. requires regular fertilization to thrive and produce healthy, colorful blooms. Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer with a high nitrogen content every four to six weeks during the growing season. Alternatively, you can use a liquid fertilizer, diluted to half strength, every two to three weeks. Avoid overfertilization, which can lead to excessive growth and reduced flowering.
Pruning:
Pruning Oxalis multicaulis Eckl. & Zeyh. is not necessary, but it can help to promote bushier growth and increase flowering. Pinch back the tips of the stems periodically to encourage branching and fuller growth. Remove any yellow or wilted leaves as soon as possible to prevent the spread of disease.
Propagation of Oxalis multicaulis Eckl. & Zeyh.
Oxalis multicaulis Eckl. & Zeyh. is a herbacious perennial plant that belongs to the family Oxalidaceae. It is a plant native to South Africa that grows in moist, shady areas, such as forests and riverbanks. The plant has a leafy stem that reaches up to 30 cm in height and produces yellow flowers.
Propagation by seeds
The easiest way to propagate Oxalis multicaulis is through seeds. The plant produces seeds in pods that ripen in late summer or early fall. To harvest the seeds, wait until the pods turn brown and start to split. Collect the pods and remove the seeds.
To sow the seeds, prepare a well-draining potting mix and sow the seeds just below the surface of the soil. Water the soil and cover the pot with a plastic bag to keep it moist. Place the pot in a warm, bright location, but away from direct sunlight. The seeds should germinate within 2-3 weeks.
Propagation by division
Oxalis multicaulis can also be propagated by dividing its rhizomes. Rhizomes are underground stems that produce new shoots and roots. To propagate the plant through division, dig up the plant and carefully divide the rhizomes into sections that each have at least one shoot and some roots.
Replant the sections in a well-draining soil mix at the same depth as they were previously. Water the soil well and keep it moist until the new shoots start to appear. Division should be done in the spring or fall.
Propagation by cuttings
Oxalis multicaulis can be propagated by stem cuttings as long as the stem has at least one node. Cut a stem from the plant that is at least 10 cm long and remove the leaves from the bottom half of the stem. Dip the cut end of the stem in rooting hormone and plant it in a well-draining soil mix.
Water the soil and cover the pot with a plastic bag to keep the moisture. Place the pot in a warm, bright location, but away from direct sunlight. The cuttings should root within 2-3 weeks.
Disease Management
There are a few diseases that can potentially affect Oxalis multicaulis Eckl. & Zeyh., including:
- Botrytis blight- Powdery mildew
- Rust
Botrytis blight is caused by the fungus Botrytis cinerea and can cause grey-brown spots on the leaves and flowers. To manage this disease, it is recommended to remove any infected plant material and improve air circulation around the plant. Fungicides can be used as a last resort if necessary.
Powdery mildew is caused by multiple fungi and can cause a white powdery coating on the leaves. To manage this disease, it is recommended to remove infected plant material and improve air circulation. Fungicides can be used if necessary, but prevention through proper plant care is the best approach.
Rust is caused by several different fungi and can cause orange or brown spots on the leaves. To manage this disease, it is recommended to remove any infected plant material and avoid overhead watering. Fungicides can also be used if necessary.
Pest Management
There are a few pests that can potentially affect Oxalis multicaulis Eckl. & Zeyh., including:
- Spider mites- Aphids
- Whiteflies
Spider mites are tiny pests that can cause webbing on the plant and yellow or brown leaves. To manage spider mites, it is recommended to spray the plant with water to remove them and improve air circulation. Insecticidal soap or neem oil can also be used.
Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that can cause curled or distorted leaves. To manage aphids, it is recommended to remove any visible insects and improve air circulation. Insecticidal soap or neem oil can also be used if necessary.
Whiteflies are small, white insects that can cause yellowing leaves and a sticky substance on the plant. To manage whiteflies, it is recommended to remove any infected plant material and use yellow sticky traps. Insecticidal soap or neem oil can also be used if necessary.
