Origin and Common Names
Oxalis oculifera E.G.H.Oliv. is a plant species that belongs to the family Oxalidaceae and is endemic to Peru. It is commonly known as the "Eye-Like Oxalis" due to its unique flowers resembling an eye. The plant was first described by botanist Eric Gilbert Hulten in 1943.
Appearance
Oxalis oculifera E.G.H.Oliv. is a small perennial herb that grows up to 15 cm tall. The plant has a single stem with several basal leaves that are clover-like in shape. The leaves are triangular in outline and divided into three leaflets, each measuring up to 3 cm long. The flowers of Oxalis oculifera E.G.H.Oliv. are small and delicate, with a diameter of around 1 cm. They are solitary and borne on long stalks emerging from the basal leaves. The flowers are white with purple veins radiating from the center and have a small yellowish-green eye-like structure at the center.
Uses
Oxalis oculifera E.G.H.Oliv. is primarily grown as an ornamental plant due to its unique and attractive flowers. It is usually propagated by dividing the clumps of bulbs that form at the base of the plant. Some species of Oxalis are known to be edible and were used as a source of food by some indigenous peoples in South America. However, there is no known historical or traditional use of Oxalis oculifera E.G.H.Oliv. as a food source or medicinal herb.
Typical Growth Conditions of Oxalis oculifera E.G.H.Oliv.
Oxalis oculifera E.G.H.Oliv. is a small perennial plant species found in the Andes mountains of Peru and Bolivia. These plants grow best in specific conditions that mimic their natural habitat. The following are the typical growth conditions for Oxalis oculifera E.G.H.Oliv.
Light
Oxalis oculifera E.G.H.Oliv. requires moderate to bright light to grow optimally. These plants need at least six hours of indirect sunlight or filtered light every day. Direct sunlight can burn the leaves and harm the plant. The plant can also grow well under artificial light, provided the light source is intense enough and kept on for at least eight hours a day.
Temperature
The optimal temperature range for Oxalis oculifera E.G.H.Oliv. is between 15°C to 25°C. These plants require moderate temperatures and cannot withstand extreme heat or cold. Temperatures above 30°C can cause leaf wilting, while temperatures below 10°C can cause damage to the roots and stems.
Soil Requirements
Oxalis oculifera E.G.H.Oliv. prefers well-draining, loose, and fertile soil. The pH of the soil should be slightly acidic, between 5.5-6.5. The best soil for these plants is a mixture of peat, perlite, and vermiculite. Additionally, adding organic matter to the soil will help improve soil fertility and drainage.
It is important to note that these growth conditions might vary depending on the climate and location. However, providing these conditions will help ensure healthy plant growth and development.
Cultivation methods
Oxalis oculifera E.G.H.Oliv., commonly known as the "Eye-leaf wood-sorrel," is a small perennial plant that belongs to the Oxalidaceae family. The plant is native to the Andes Mountains of Bolivia. Oxalis oculifera is a delicate plant that requires special attention during cultivation.
The plant prefers a well-drained soil with a slightly acidic pH range of 5.0 to 6.5. It grows well in partial shade to full shade, making it an ideal indoor plant. Oxalis oculifera is propagated by dividing the rhizomes during the early spring season before the new growth starts.
Watering needs
Oxalis oculifera has moderate water needs and requires frequent watering during the growing season. The plant prefers moist soil but is susceptible to root rot if the soil remains wet for an extended period. The watering frequency should be reduced during the dormant season to prevent overwatering. The best practice is to water the plant when the top inch of the soil feels dry to the touch.
Fertilization
To keep the Oxalis oculifera healthy and vibrant, it is recommended to fertilize the plant every two weeks during the growing season. Fertilization will promote the growth of new foliage and flowers. Use a balanced fertilizer with an NPK ratio of 10-10-10 or 20-20-20. It is essential to dilute the fertilizer to half strength to prevent the plant from sustaining any root damage.
Pruning
Pruning is crucial for the health and aesthetics of the Oxalis oculifera. Pruning should be done in the spring season before any new growth appears. Remove dead, damaged, and diseased foliage to prevent the spread of disease. Trim back overgrown foliage to promote new growth. Deadhead spent blooms to encourage re-bloom.
Propagation of Oxalis oculifera E.G.H.Oliv.
Oxalis oculifera E.G.H.Oliv. is a beautiful and rare plant species native to southern Ecuador. The plant is commonly known as the 'eye-flowered Oxalis' due to its unique and attractive flowers. It is herbaceous with little growth above ground, but the plant produces a small underground tuberous stem called a bulbil. This bulbil is the primary means of propagation for the Oxalis oculifera E.G.H.Oliv. The following are the propagation methods:
Bulbil Division
To propagate Oxalis oculifera E.G.H.Oliv. using bulbil division, carefully dig up the bulbils using a garden fork or hand trowel. Separate the bulbils one by one, and ensure that each has a little bit of stem attached to it. The stem will develop roots and ultimately form a new plant. Immediately replant the separated bulbils in a well-drained soil mixture and maintain adequate moisture level.
Seed Propagation
Oxalis oculifera E.G.H.Oliv. can also be propagated from seeds. The seedheads are produced after the flowers fade and wither away. Mature seeds are black, rough, and easily fall out of the capsule. Carefully collect the seeds and sow them on the surface of moist soil, keeping them warm and slightly shaded. Once the seeds germinate, thin them carefully to allow enough space for their growth, and maintain an adequate moisture level.
Leaf Cutting Propagation
This method doesn't work for Oxalis oculifera E.G.H.Oliv. because the plant doesn't possess the ability to generate new plants from individual leaves.
With these methods, you can quickly propagate Oxalis oculifera E.G.H.Oliv. and enjoy their unique beauty throughout your garden or tropical landscapes.
Disease Management for Oxalis oculifera E.G.H.Oliv.
Like any other plant, Oxalis oculifera E.G.H.Oliv. is susceptible to diseases. Here are some of the common diseases that might affect this plant and ways to manage them.
1. Root Rot
Root rot is a fungal disease that affects the roots of the plant, making it difficult for them to absorb water and nutrients from the soil. To prevent root rot, make sure the soil is well-drained and avoid overwatering the plant. Also, remove any dead or diseased roots and avoid planting the plant in contaminated soil.
2. Leaf Spot
Leaf spot is a fungal disease that causes small circular spots on the leaves of the plant. To manage this disease, remove any infected leaves and avoid overhead watering. You can also use a fungicide to prevent the spread of the disease.
3. Powdery Mildew
Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that causes a white powdery coating on the leaves of the plant. To manage this disease, spray the plant with a fungicide or mix one tablespoon of baking soda in one liter of water and spray the plant with the mixture.
Pest Management for Oxalis oculifera E.G.H.Oliv.
Oxalis oculifera E.G.H.Oliv. is also susceptible to pests. Here are some of the common pests that might affect this plant and ways to manage them.
1. Aphids
Aphids are small insects that suck the sap from the leaves of the plant, causing them to wilt and yellow. To manage these pests, spray the plant with a solution of soap and water or use an insecticide.
2. Spider Mites
Spider mites are tiny insects that feed on the leaves of the plant, causing them to turn yellow and die. To manage these pests, spray the plant with a mixture of water and neem oil or use an insecticide.
3. Thrips
Thrips are small insects that feed on the leaves of the plant, causing them to become distorted and discolored. To manage these pests, spray the plant with an insecticide or use sticky traps to catch them.
