Overview
Oxalis polyphylla Jacq. var. pubescens Sond. which is commonly known as Canela in Spanish, is a perennial herbaceous plant belonging to the family Oxalidaceae.
Origin
This plant is native to Chile and Argentina, but it can also be found in several other countries around the world as it has been introduced.
Common names
Aside from Canela, this plant is also known as several other names, including Hairy Wood-Sorrel, Fuzzy Green Wood-Sorrel, and Velvety Wood-Sorrel.
General appearance
Oxalis polyphylla Jacq. var. pubescens Sond. is a low-growing plant with hairy, light-green leaves that can reach a height of up to 6 inches. The leaves are made up of three heart-shaped leaflets that grow on long petioles and they can close at night or in low-light conditions. The stems have a reddish-brown color and are covered in small hairs. The flowers are white or pink and have five petals that are arranged in a star shape. They bloom in spring and summer and attract bees and butterflies.
Uses
Oxalis polyphylla Jacq. var. pubescens Sond. has been used in traditional medicine for centuries to treat a variety of ailments. The plant contains high levels of vitamin C and has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. It has been used to treat digestive issues, respiratory problems, and skin conditions. In addition, some people use this plant for culinary purposes by adding its leaves to salads or using them to make tea.
Light Requirements
Oxalis polyphylla Jacq. var. pubescens Sond. is a shade-loving plant species that prefers indirect sunlight or partially shaded locations. Excessive exposure to direct sunlight can cause scorching and leave the leaves yellowed. Therefore, it is ideal for indoor plantation or outdoor areas such as under the tree canopy where the plant can receive enough shade.
Temperature Requirements
This plant is native to South Africa, thriving in climates that range from cool to warm conditions. The optimal temperature range for its growth is between 18°C and 28°C (65°F and 82°F), making it ideal for growing under a temperature-controlled environment. If the temperature drops below 15°C (59°F), the plant may become dormant or start to wither. Oxalis polyphylla Jacq. var. pubescens Sond. can't tolerate frost, and its leaves may develop mushy dark patches when exposed to cold temperatures.
Soil Requirements
The soil type Oxalis polyphylla Jacq. var. pubescens Sond. requires is well-draining and consistent moisture. A fast-draining potting mix containing perlite, cocopeat, and organic compost is ideal for planting indoors. Outdoors, it prefers a soil mix with loam, sand, and peat moss that is slightly acidic with a pH range of 5.5-6.5. This plant species can adapt to slightly dry soil conditions. However, over-watering can lead to root rot and eventual death of the plant.
Cultivation
Oxalis polyphylla Jacq. var. pubescens Sond. can be grown indoors or outdoors depending on the region's climate or personal preference of the gardener. Ideally, it prefers well-drained soils rich in organic matter and acidic to slightly alkaline pH. In outdoor cultivation, it thrives in partial shade to full sun, whereas indoor cultivation requires adequate lighting.
Watering Needs
Proper watering is necessary for the survival of the Oxalis polyphylla Jacq. var. pubescens Sond. plant. During its growing season, ensure that the soil is continuously moist but not oversaturated. Frequent monitoring of the soil's moisture content is necessary to avoid drying out or creating waterlogged conditions. In winter, reduce watering to prevent root rot and allow the plant to enter dormancy.
Fertilization
Regular application of balanced liquid fertilizers every two weeks during the growing season promotes the healthy growth of Oxalis polyphylla Jacq. var. pubescens Sond. plants. Organic fertilizer is ideal for indoor cultivators as it enhances the soil's nutrient content and minimizes environmental pollution.
Pruning
Pruning of Oxalis polyphylla Jacq. var. pubescens Sond. plants is essential to keep them healthy, tidy, and promote bushy growth. The pruning process involves pinching off the dead, yellowing leaves and stems to encourage the growth of new foliage. It is best done during the growing season when the plant is actively producing new growth. It's also necessary to prune the plants during dormancy to keep them dormant until the next growing season.
Propagation of Oxalis polyphylla Jacq. var. pubescens Sond.
Oxalis polyphylla Jacq. var. pubescens Sond. can be propagated through several methods such as division, cuttings, and seed germination.
Division
The most common and easiest method of propagating Oxalis polyphylla Jacq. var. pubescens Sond. is through division. This can be done in early spring before new growth appears. Dig up the plant and divide it into smaller sections, each with at least one healthy tuberous root. Replant immediately, spacing the divisions about 15-20 cm apart and water thoroughly. Division ensures that the new plants will have the same traits as the parent plant.
Cuttings
Oxalis polyphylla Jacq. var. pubescens Sond. can also be propagated from stem cuttings taken during the growing season. Take 8-10 cm stem cuttings from a healthy parent plant and remove the lower leaves. Dip the cut ends in rooting hormone powder and place the cuttings in a well-draining potting mix. Keep the potting mix moist and the containers in a warm, bright place. Rooting typically takes a few weeks, and after rooting, the new plants can be transplanted to their permanent location.
Seed Germination
Propagation of Oxalis polyphylla Jacq. var. pubescens Sond. can also be done through seed germination, which can be tricky. Collect mature seeds in autumn, clean them and sow them directly in soil that has been pre-moistened. Use a seed-raising mixture, and keep the container in a bright, warm spot that’s protected from direct sunlight. After several weeks, the seedlings will germinate, and when these seedlings grow enough, you can transplant them to their permanent location.
Disease Management
Some of the common diseases that may affect Oxalis polyphylla Jacq. var. pubescens Sond. include:
- Leaf spot
- Powdery mildew
- Root rot
To manage leaf spot, remove all infected leaves and destroy them. Avoid overhead watering and promote good air circulation by spacing the plants apart. Additionally, you can apply a copper-based fungicide to prevent further spread of the disease.
Powdery mildew can be controlled by keeping the leaves dry by watering the soil, rather than the foliage. If the condition persists, you can apply a fungicide containing potassium bicarbonate, neem oil, or sulfur.
Root rot can be caused by overwatering, leading to the plants rotting at the roots and base. Always provide proper drainage to the plants and avoid overwatering. If the condition persists, discard the plant and soil to prevent the disease from spreading to healthy plants.
Pest Management
Common pests that may affect Oxalis polyphylla Jacq. var. pubescens Sond. include:
- Spider mites
- Aphids
- Caterpillars
To control spider mites, keep the plants well-hydrated, and mist the foliage to increase humidity. You can also use insecticidal soap or neem oil to kill spider mites, ensuring to apply the treatment to both the top and bottom surfaces of leaves.
Aphids can be controlled by removing them manually, using a strong spray of water or using insecticidal soap or oils such as neem or jojoba oil.
To manage caterpillars, pick them off leaves when seen, or use Bacillus thuringiensis (BT) spray if the infestation is severe.
Continuously monitor the plant for any signs of disease or pest infestation and take immediate action to avoid spreading to healthy plant. Also, ensure to follow all management techniques in good gardening practices such as proper watering techniques, adequate fertilization, and providing the proper growing environment to promote plant health and vigor.
