Overview
Oxalis pes-caprae L., commonly known as Bermuda buttercup or sour grass, is a perennial herbaceous plant native to South Africa. The plant belongs to the Oxalidaceae family and is known for its bright yellow flowers and clover-like leaves.
Appearance
Bermuda buttercup can grow up to 30 centimeters in height and has a bulbous underground stem known as a corm. The leaves are trifoliate, meaning they have three leaflets that are heart-shaped and grow on separate stalks. The flowers are bright yellow and have five petals that can grow up to 20 millimeters in length.
Common Names
Oxalis pes-caprae L. is commonly known as Bermuda buttercup, sour grass, sour weed, and soursob. Its name in Afrikaans, Suring, means 'sour,' which refers to the tangy taste of the leaves and stems.
Uses
In South Africa, Oxalis pes-caprae L. is sometimes used medicinally to treat bladder, liver, and stomach problems. The plant is also used as a natural dye in some African cultures. In other parts of the world, the plant is considered a weed and is often removed from gardens and lawns because it can be invasive.
Growth Conditions for Oxalis pes-caprae L.
Oxalis pes-caprae L. is a perennial bulb plant that is also known as sourgrass, Bermuda Buttercup, Cape Sorrel, and English-weed. It is native to South Africa and is now widespread in Mediterranean regions, Australia, and some parts of America. For optimal growth and healthy development, there are certain conditions that you should provide the plant.
Light Requirements
Oxalis pes-caprae L. thrives well in full sunlight. It requires a minimum of six hours of bright sun exposure daily. However, you should avoid exposing the plant to scorching sunlight. Therefore, it is advisable to provide partial shade in extremely hot regions. Insufficient light may cause the leaves and stems to stretch, which weakens the plant.
Temperature Requirements
Oxalis pes-caprae L. requires a moderate temperature range to grow well. The plant can tolerate temperatures as low as 25°F (-3.9°C) and as high as 104°F (40°C). However, during dormancy, the plant can tolerate temperatures as low as 15°F (-9.4°C). If you live in regions with extreme temperatures, you can grow the plant in containers and place them where they can get enough sun without exposing them to extreme temperatures.
Soil Requirements
Oxalis pes-caprae L. thrives best in well-drained, moist soils. The pH range should be between 5.5 to 7.5. The plant needs rich soils that contain high levels of organic matter. However, it can tolerate different soils, including sandy soils, loamy soils, and clay soils. Before planting the bulbs, ensure that the soil is free from stones and debris, which may cause root damage. Additionally, loosen up the soil to promote airflow, drainage, and root penetration.
Cultivation Methods
Oxalis pes-caprae L. is a perennial plant that grows from a bulb. It prefers full sun to partial shade and well-draining soil. The bulbs should be planted around 3 inches deep in soil with a spacing of 6-12 inches apart. It can also be grown in pots indoors or on a balcony, as long as there is adequate sunlight and well-draining soil. It is recommended to plant the bulbs in the late summer or early autumn, before the first frost.
Watering Needs
Oxalis pes-caprae L. requires regular watering, especially during the growing season in spring and summer. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged, and it is recommended to water deeply once a week rather than frequent shallow watering. During the dormant season in fall and winter, watering can be reduced but the soil should not dry out completely.
Fertilization
It is beneficial to fertilize Oxalis pes-caprae L. once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. Avoid over-fertilizing as it may stimulate excessive growth and weaken the plant. Use a slow-release fertilizer or dilute regular fertilizer to half strength when applying.
Pruning
Oxalis pes-caprae L. does not require frequent pruning, but deadheading spent flowers and removing any damaged or withered leaves can help maintain its appearance. It is recommended to remove foliage after it turns yellow and dies back, usually in late spring or early summer. This allows the plant to conserve energy for the new growing season.
Propagation of Oxalis pes-caprae L.
Oxalis pes-caprae L., also known as Bermuda buttercup, is commonly propagated through its bulbs, seeds, and stem cuttings.
Propagation through Bulbs
This is the easiest and most effective way to propagate Oxalis pes-caprae L. To propagate through bulbs, you can follow these steps:
- Carefully dig up the bulbs from the parent plant in the fall, after the foliage has withered.
- Separate the small bulbs from the main bulb.
- Plant the separated bulbs in a well-draining potting mix or garden soil. Ensure that the bulbs are planted about two inches deep and one inch apart.
- Water the soil and keep it moist but not waterlogged.
- Place the planter or pot in a warm location with bright, indirect light.
- Within a week, you should start seeing new sprouts emerging from the bulbs.
Propagation through Seeds
Propagating Oxalis pes-caprae L. through seeds is an option but not the best method as it takes a bit longer. However, you can follow these steps to propagate through seeds:
- Collect the seeds from the parent plant after the capsules have turned brown and begin to dry up.
- Remove the seeds from the capsules and allow them to dry out completely for a few days.
- Once the seeds have dried, you can plant them in a potting mix or garden soil. Ensure that the seeds are planted at a depth of approximately ¼ inch.
- Water the soil and keep it moist but not waterlogged.
- Place the planter or pot in a warm, partially shaded location, and keep the soil moderately moist.
- Germination should occur within two to six weeks.
Propagation through Stem Cuttings
Propagation using stem cuttings is suitable for those plants that are not multiplying through other methods. This is how to go about it:
- Take stem cuttings from the parent plant, making sure that each cutting has 2-3 nodes.
- Remove the lower leaves on each cutting and dip the cut ends in a rooting hormone.
- Plant the cuttings in a well-draining potting mix or garden soil, then water the soil thoroughly.
- Place the pot in a location that gets bright, but indirect sunlight.
- Keep the soil moist and maintain high humidity levels for the cuttings by covering the pot with a transparent plastic bag.
- Within a few weeks, you should see new growth from the cuttings.
Disease and Pest Management for Oxalis pes-caprae L.
Oxalis pes-caprae L. is a beautiful and robust plant, but like all plants, it is susceptible to various diseases and pests. Here are some common diseases and pests that might affect Oxalis pes-caprae L. and ways to manage them.
Common Diseases
One of the most common diseases that affect Oxalis pes-caprae L. is the Botrytis blight. This disease is caused by a fungus, and it thrives in warm, moist environments. Symptoms of Botrytis blight include brown spots on leaves, wilting, and mold growth. The best way to manage this disease is to remove all affected plant parts and avoid over-watering the plant. Additionally, avoid overcrowding the plants and try to space them out as much as possible.
Another common disease that affects Oxalis pes-caprae L. is the powdery mildew. Powdery mildew is caused by a fungus, and it appears as a white, powdery substance on leaves. This disease is often caused by high humidity levels and poor air circulation. The best way to manage this disease is to prune affected plant parts and improve air circulation by spacing out the plants. Additionally, avoid watering the plant from above and use drip irrigation instead.
Common Pests
Oxalis pes-caprae L. is also susceptible to various pests, including aphids, spider mites, and slugs. One of the most common pests that affect this plant is the aphid. Aphids are small insects that suck sap from the plant, causing wilting and stunting. The best way to manage aphids is to spray the plant with soapy water or insecticidal soap. Additionally, beneficial insects like ladybugs can help control aphid populations.
Another common pest that affects Oxalis pes-caprae L. is the spider mite. Spider mites are tiny insects that feed on the underside of leaves, causing yellowing and leaf drop. The best way to manage spider mites is to improve the humidity level around the plant. You can also spray the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Finally, slugs are another common pest that can affect Oxalis pes-caprae L. Slugs eat large holes in the leaves, and they are often active in moist environments. The best way to manage slugs is to remove any debris and mulch around the plants, as these can provide hiding places for the slugs. Additionally, you can use a slug bait that contains iron phosphate, which is safe for the plant.
By following these disease and pest management tips, you can help ensure that your Oxalis pes-caprae L. plants remain healthy and beautiful.
