Origin
Oxalis pes-caprae L. var. pes-caprae, commonly known as Bermuda buttercup, is a species of flowering plant in the family Oxalidaceae. It is native to South Africa and was introduced to other regions as an ornamental plant.
Common Names
Besides Bermuda buttercup, Oxalis pes-caprae L. var. pes-caprae is known by several other common names which include sourgrass, cape-sorrel, and buttercup oxalis among others.
Uses
The plant is often used as an ornamental plant as it produces vibrant yellow flowers that brighten the environment. However, the plant is also considered a weed in some regions where it invades lawns, flower gardens, and other natural habitats. The plant contains oxalic acid, which can be injurious or even toxic if ingested in large quantities. Although the plant has significant medicinal properties, it should only be used under the guidance of a medical practitioner.
General Appearance
Oxalis pes-caprae L. var. pes-caprae has a distinctive appearance. It has an erect stem that can reach up to 45cm in height with a deep green trifoliate leaf. The flowers of Bermuda buttercup are a bright yellow color and have five petals. Each flower produces a capsule that houses several seeds.
Growth Conditions of Oxalis pes-caprae L. var. pes-caprae
Oxalis pes-caprae L. var. pes-caprae, commonly known as Bermuda buttercup or African wood-sorrel, is a perennial plant species that belongs to the Oxalidaceae family. This plant species originates from South Africa but has now become an invasive species in some countries. To grow healthy and produce beautiful flowers, certain growth conditions must be met. These growth conditions include:
Light Requirements
Oxalis pes-caprae L. var. pes-caprae requires a lot of sunlight to grow properly. The plant species needs approximately 6 hours of direct sunlight every day. It is essential to place the plant in an area where it can access direct sunlight. Lack of enough sunlight may lead to stunted growth and pale leaves.
Soil Requirements
The plant species grows best in well-drained soils that are rich in nutrients. Loose sandy loam soil or clay loam soil with a neutral pH ranging from 6.0 to 7.0 is ideal for proper growth. The soil should be moist but not waterlogged; hence, it is advisable to add compost to improve the soil's water retention capability. Adding a layer of organic mulch on top of the soil can help retain moisture and regulate soil temperature.
Temperature Requirements
Oxalis pes-caprae L. var. pes-caprae grows well in warm temperatures. The species thrives in temperatures ranging between 60-70°F (15-21°C). Extreme temperature changes can affect the plant's growth and may lead to leaf-shedding, wilting, or stunted growth. The plants should be protected from frost, and during the winter season, the species may die back to the ground level before re-emerging in spring.
Water Requirements
Regular watering is essential for the proper growth of Oxalis pes-caprae L. var. pes-caprae. The plant species requires moderate watering, and the frequency of watering depends on the weather conditions and the type of soil. Overwatering can lead to root rot and other fungal diseases. It is advisable to inspect the soil moisture level regularly to determine when to water the plants. Water the plants during the early morning or late evening when the temperature is cooler to prevent the water from evaporating too fast.
Cultivation methods
The Oxalis pes-caprae L. var. pes-caprae plant is ideal for cultivation in mild to full-sun areas. Ensure that the soil is well-draining before planting. The plant grows well in sandy loam soils that have good organic matter content. This variety grows excellently as a ground cover or invasive plant in areas such as gardens, borders, and landscaped spaces.
Watering needs
The Oxalis pes-caprae L. var. pes-caprae plant prefers regular watering but can also tolerate some short periods of drought. Do not allow the plant to dry out entirely since this might result in wilting and other adverse effects. It is advisable to water the plant deeply after planting to encourage faster rooting and then reduce watering frequency to weekly in the growing season, depending on the soil type and weather conditions.
Fertilization
Add compost or well-rotted manure to the soil during the planting phase to enrich it and improve growth. Granular balanced fertilisers with a 3:1:2 or 2:3:2 ratio of nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K) are suitable for the plant. Apply the fertiliser at the start of each growing season and then follow with a potassium-rich top-dressing in mid to late winter to encourage bulb and root growth during the dormant season.
Pruning
Pruning or deadheading dead flowers and stems might encourage new growth and promote the development of additional flowers throughout the blooming season. Use a pair of sterile, sharp scissors or pruners to cut off the spent flowers and stems. Also, to control plant growth, you can prune the foliage before summer to reduce its size.
Propagation of Oxalis pes-caprae L. var. pes-caprae
Oxalis pes-caprae L. var. pes-caprae, commonly known as Bermuda buttercup, African wood-sorrel, or sourgrass, is a perennial plant that spreads by seeds and bulbs. Propagation of this plant is relatively easy and can be achieved through various methods such as seeds, division, and bulbils.
Propagation by seeds
The plant produces small, hard, and dark brown seeds in small pods after flowering. To propagate the plant by seeds, the seeds need to be collected and sown. The best time to collect the seeds is after the plant has flowered, and the pods have started to dry out. Once collected, the seeds should be sown immediately in a suitable growing medium. The seeds require light to germinate, so they should be sown on the surface of the soil, without covering them. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged, and the seeds should germinate within two to three weeks.
Propagation by division
Oxalis pes-caprae L. var. pes-caprae can also be propagated through division. This method involves separating the plant into smaller sections and replanting them separately. The best time to divide the plant is in the spring when the new growth appears. The clump should be dug up carefully, and the individual sections separated using a sharp, sterile knife. Each section should have healthy roots and stems. The sections can be replanted immediately in a suitable growing medium, and they should be watered thoroughly to help them establish roots.
Propagation by bulbils
The plant also produces bulbils, which are small, red-brown structures that grow on the stem. These bulbils can be removed and replanted to propagate the plant. The best time to remove the bulbils is when they are fully formed, and the stem is still green. The bulbils should be carefully removed and planted in a suitable growing medium, with the pointed end facing upwards and the rounded end facing downwards. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged, and the bulbils should germinate and produce new plants within a few weeks.
Disease and Pest Management for Oxalis pes-caprae L. var. pes-caprae
Oxalis pes-caprae L. var. pes-caprae, also known as sourgrass or Bermuda buttercup, is a native of South Africa but has become a troublesome weed in many parts of the world. While it is relatively easy to grow and care for, it is susceptible to a range of diseases and pest problems that can significantly impact its health and appearance. In this guide, we will explore some of the most common diseases and pests that affect sourgrass and provide some tips on how to manage them.
Diseases
Fungal Leaf Spot: This disease is caused by various fungi and is characterized by the appearance of small, circular or irregular-shaped spots on the leaves. These spots are often surrounded by yellow or brown rings, and the affected foliage may eventually die and fall off. To manage this disease, remove and destroy infected plant material, ensure good air circulation around the plants, and avoid overhead watering.
Pythium Root Rot: This disease is caused by a water mold and can affect the roots of sourgrass, causing stunting and yellowing of the foliage. To prevent this disease, plant sourgrass in well-draining soil, avoid over-watering, and remove and discard infected plants.
Powdery Mildew: This fungal disease appears as a white powdery deposit on the leaves and stems of infected plants. It can lead to stunted growth and deformation of leaves if left unchecked. To prevent powdery mildew, plant sourgrass in a location with good air circulation, avoid overcrowding, and avoid overhead watering. Fungicides may also be used if the disease is severe.
Pests
Aphids: These small, soft-bodied insects feed on the sap of the plant and can cause leaves to curl and yellow. They also excrete a sticky substance known as honeydew, which can attract other pests such as ants. To control aphids, use a strong stream of water to wash them off the plant, introduce natural predators such as ladybugs or lacewings, or use insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Thrips: These tiny insects feed on the sap of the plant, causing leaves to become distorted and discolored. In severe cases, they can cause the leaves to drop prematurely. To manage thrips, use yellow sticky traps to monitor the population, prune and remove infested plant material, introduce natural predators such as predatory mites or lacewings, or use insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Spider mites: These tiny pests are common in dry, dusty environments and feed on the sap of the plant, causing leaves to become stippled and yellow before eventually falling off. To manage spider mites, use a strong stream of water to wash them off the plant, introduce natural predators such as predatory mites or lacewings, or use insecticidal soap or neem oil.
By following these tips and keeping a close eye on your sourgrass plants, you can keep them healthy and vibrant all season long. With a little bit of care and attention, you can enjoy the beauty of these lovely plants without worrying about pesky pests and diseases.
