Origin
Oxalis polyphylla Jacq. var. polyphylla is a plant species native to Bolivia, Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, and Venezuela. It grows in the Andes Mountains at altitudes ranging from 1800 to 4300 meters above sea level.
Common Names
Some of the common names for Oxalis polyphylla Jacq. var. polyphylla include Andean shamrock, arvejilla, quishuar, and papa de paramo. In its native regions, the plant is known for its medicinal and culinary applications.
Uses
Oxalis polyphylla Jacq. var. polyphylla is primarily used for medicinal purposes and is popularly known as a natural remedy for digestive issues, respiratory problems, and diabetes. Its leaves and stems have high amounts of oxalic acid, which can help dissolve kidney stones and improve digestion.
In culinary practices, the plant is also used as an ingredient in soups, stews, salads, and beverages. Its sour and slightly tangy taste resembles that of a lemon or lime, and it can add flavor to different dishes.
General Appearance
The Oxalis polyphylla Jacq. var. polyphylla is a herbaceous plant that grows up to 30 cm in height. It has a green stem, which is slender and erect, with scattered hairs. The leaves are semi-succulent, primarily composed of three leaflets that are usually elliptical in shape and have irregularly toothed edges. The flowers of the Andean shamrock are typically pink or white with five petals. The plant produces small fruits that contain several small seeds.
Light Requirements
Oxalis polyphylla Jacq. var. polyphylla typically grows in areas of partial to full shade, although it can tolerate some direct sunlight. In its natural habitat, it often grows beneath shrubs and trees. When grown indoors, it is best to place the plant near a north-facing window or under fluorescent lights for around 12 hours of light per day.
Temperature Requirements
Oxalis polyphylla Jacq. var. polyphylla prefers cool temperatures between 45-75°F (7-24°C). It can tolerate freezing temperatures down to 25°F (-4°C) for short periods of time but will not survive extended freezes. When grown indoors, it is important to keep the plant away from heating vents or radiators that may dry out the air and cause the soil to dry out too quickly.
Soil Requirements
Oxalis polyphylla Jacq. var. polyphylla prefers moist, well-drained soil that is slightly acidic with a pH between 5.5-6.5. It will not tolerate waterlogged soils, so make sure the pot has adequate drainage. A good potting mix for this plant should be light and airy, containing organic matter such as peat moss or coconut coir and perlite or sand for drainage. It is also beneficial to add a slow-release fertilizer to the soil to promote healthy growth.
Cultivation Methods
Oxalis polyphylla Jacq. var. polyphylla is a perennial plant that can grow up to 50 cm in height and spread up to 30 cm in width. This plant is drought-resistant and can grow in different types of soil, but it thrives in well-drained soil with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.0. The plant requires partial to full sunlight to grow and prefers cooler temperatures.
To cultivate Oxalis polyphylla Jacq. var. polyphylla, you should propagate it through seed or division during spring. If propagating through seeds, you should sow them in a well-draining soil mix and lightly cover them with soil. Water the soil and keep it moist until the seeds germinate. If propagating through division, you should separate the plant's rhizomes and plant them in separate containers or directly in the garden. You should water them immediately.
Watering Needs
Oxalis polyphylla Jacq. var. polyphylla is a plant that requires moderate watering. You should water the plant whenever the top inch of soil feels dry. However, you should not overwater the plant as it can lead to root rot. You should water the plant deeply, enough to reach the roots, and allow the soil to drain before watering again. During the winter, you should reduce the watering frequency to avoid waterlogging the soil.
Fertilization
To ensure optimal growth and development, you should fertilize Oxalis polyphylla Jacq. var. polyphylla during the growing season. You can use a balanced fertilizer or a slow-release fertilizer in early spring or mid-summer. You should avoid over-fertilizing the plant as it can lead to excessive growth and reduced flowering. Instead, you should follow the manufacturer's instructions on the proper application rate.
Pruning
Oxalis polyphylla Jacq. var. polyphylla does not require frequent pruning. However, you should remove any dead or yellowing leaves and stems as soon as you notice them. Dead or yellowing leaves can be a sign of disease or pest infestation. Regular pruning will help promote new growth and maintain the plant's shape. You should also remove the spent flowers to encourage the production of more blooms.
Propagation of Oxalis Polyphylla Jacq. var. polyphylla
Oxalis polyphylla Jacq. var. polyphylla, also known as the Many-Leaved Wood Sorrel, is a herbaceous plant that can be propagated by various methods including seed, vegetative division, and stem cuttings.
Seed Propagation
The simplest method of propagation is through seeds. The seeds are usually produced in large numbers by the plant and can be easily harvested. The seeds should be sown in a well-drained, moist soil mix, with a covering of about 2mm of soil. The seeds should be watered regularly and kept in partial shade, as they require sunlight to germinate. They normally take 10-20 days to germinate and can be transplanted once they have a couple of true leaves.
Vegetative Division
Oxalis polyphylla Jacq. var. polyphylla can also be propagated through vegetative division. The plant has a fibrous root system so division should be done gently and carefully. The plant should be dug up and the roots separated into small sections, each with a few leaves and roots attached. These divisions can be replanted in well-drained soil and kept slightly moist until they become established.
Stem Cuttings
Stem cuttings can also be used to propagate Oxalis polyphylla Jacq. var. polyphylla. Cuttings should be around 6-8 cm long and taken from young, healthy stems. The cuttings should be dipped in a rooting hormone and then planted in a well-drained soil mix. They should be kept in partial shade and watered regularly until they root, which usually takes around a month or so.
Disease Management
Oxalis polyphylla Jacq. var. polyphylla, commonly known as oxalis, may be affected by various diseases that can cause damage to the plant's foliage, stems, and roots. Here are some common diseases that might affect the plants:
- Fungal leaf spot: Spots on the leaves caused by fungi such as Cercospora oxalidis and Colletotrichum species may cause leaf yellowing and defoliation. It can be managed by removing the infected leaves and avoiding overhead watering or keeping leaves dry.
- Crown and root rots: Fungal rots caused by Sclerotinia sclerotiorum and Rhizoctonia solani may cause the plant to wilt and die. Good drainage and avoiding over-watering can prevent these diseases.
- Bacterial soft rot: Soft rot of the stem and the roots caused by Erwinia carotovora can be prevented by ensuring that the plant is grown in well-draining soil, and avoiding over-watering and damage to the plants.
Pest Management
Pests such as insects and mites can cause severe damage to the plants, and early detection and control measures are essential. Here are some of the pests that might affect the Oxalis polyphylla Jacq. var. polyphylla and the ways to manage them:
- Aphids: These small pear-shaped insects suck the sap, leading to curling or deformation of leaves. They can be controlled by using insecticidal soap or neem oil, natural predators like ladybugs and lacewings, or by spraying water with force.
- Two-Spotted Spider Mites: These pests are tiny and prefer dry conditions. They cause mottling or yellowing of the leaves or webbing below the leaves. They can be controlled by misting the leaves frequently and using insecticidal soap and neem oil spray.
- Thrips: These pests cause damage by feeding on the tender parts of the plant and causing silver streaks. They can be controlled with neem oil or insecticidal soap with good coverage.
It is essential to monitor plants regularly, and any signs of disease or pests should be addressed promptly. Using organic and natural pest control methods may be a good option. Ensure that the plants are well-fed and grown in suitable environmental conditions to make them less susceptible to pests and diseases.
