Origin
Oxalis priceae Small ssp. texana (Small) Eiten is a plant native to central and eastern Texas, United States of America.
Common Names
This plant is commonly known as Price’s woodsorrel, Texan woodsorrel, Price’s oxalis, and Texas yellow oxalis.
Uses
Oxalis priceae Small ssp. texana has several uses. Its leaves and flowers are edible and have a sour taste. They can be used to make salads or as a garnish for various dishes. The plant has also been used for medicinal purposes to treat scurvy, diarrhea, and sore throat. Additionally, it is an ornamental species that can be planted in gardens and flowerbeds.
General Appearance
Oxalis priceae Small ssp. texana is a small, perennial plant that grows up to 20 cm tall. The plant has clover-like, trifoliate leaves that are light green in color and have purple markings. Its flowers are bright yellow and have five petals that form a funnel shape. The plant blooms from March to May. Its fruit is a capsule that contains several small seeds.
Light Requirements
Oxalis priceae Small ssp. texana (Small) Eiten grows best in areas with bright, filtered light or partial shade. Too much direct sunlight can cause the plant to wilt or dry out. In areas with less sunlight, it may bloom less frequently but will still grow well.
Temperature Requirements
The ideal temperature range for this plant is between 50°F to 80°F (10°C to 27°C). It can tolerate temperatures outside of this range but may grow more slowly or not at all. In areas with colder temperatures, it may be best to grow the plant indoors or as a houseplant.
Soil Requirements
Oxalis priceae Small ssp. texana (Small) Eiten prefers well-draining, moist soil with a slightly acidic pH between 5.5 and 6.5. The plant should be grown in soil that is rich in organic matter, such as compost or peat moss. It is important to ensure that the soil is not too compacted, as this may limit root growth and cause the plant to suffer.
Cultivation Methods
Oxalis priceae ssp. texana is an easy plant to grow. It prefers well-drained soil that is rich in compost and humus. This species enjoys full sunlight or partial shade. Planting should be done in early spring or fall when the temperature is moderate. Space the plants about 6 inches apart to allow for growth and expansion. Bulbs can be propagated for new plants, and seeds can be sown for the next season’s crop.
Watering Needs
Texana accepts average moisture levels in the soil. Overwatering can lead to root rot and fungal infections, so it is best to water the plant when the top inch of soil is dry. During the flowering season, watering should be consistent but moderate.
Fertilization
Apply a balanced NPK (Nitrogen, Phosphorus, Potassium) fertilizer to the soil once in the spring for optimum growth. Organic fertilizers containing fish or kelp emulsions are ideal for this species. Too much fertilizer can cause the leaves to yellow and drop off and can affect the development of the bulbs.
Pruning
Pruning is not necessary for Oxalis priceae ssp. texana. However, removing spent flowers can prolong the flowering season. Cut back the leaves to the ground after they have turned brown and dry at the end of the growing season.
Propagation of Oxalis priceae Small ssp. texana (Small) Eiten
Oxalis priceae Small ssp. texana (Small) Eiten, commonly known as Texas Woodsorrel, is a North American perennial plant with delicate yellow flowers and clover-like leaves. With proper care, Texas Woodsorrel can be propagated in several ways.
Seed Propagation
Propagation of Texas Woodsorrel through seeds is possible but can be challenging. Seeds are best harvested in the fall when the pods ripen and split open. The tiny seeds should be scattered on the soil surface and lightly covered with soil or sand. Keep the soil moist for successful germination. Germination can take several weeks to a few months.
Division
Division of mature plants is the easiest and most efficient way to propagate Texas Woodsorrel. This method involves carefully digging up the plant and separating it into smaller sections. Each section should have a few healthy roots and shoots. Replant each section into a well-draining pot or garden soil and water well.
Cuttings
Propagation through stem cuttings is more challenging but can be successful with the right conditions. Take cuttings from the parent plant in the spring or summer and dip the cut end into rooting hormone. Plant each cutting into a container filled with well-draining soil mix and keep it moist. Keep the container in a warm and bright location but avoid direct sunlight. Roots should form in a few weeks, and the new plants can be transplanted after a few months.
Overall, Texas Woodsorrel is an easy-to-grow plant that can be propagated through seed, division, or cuttings. Choose the propagation method that suits your resources and skills best.
Disease Management
Like most plants, Oxalis priceae Small ssp. texana (Small) Eiten is susceptible to various diseases caused by bacteria, fungi, and viruses. Some common diseases that might affect the plant include:
- Leaf spot: This fungal disease causes circular spots on the plant's leaves, which turn brown or black over time. It can be managed by removing the affected leaves, avoiding overhead watering, and ensuring proper air circulation around the plant.
- Powdery mildew: This fungal disease appears as a white powdery coating on the plant's leaves and stems. It can be prevented by avoiding high humidity, watering in the morning, and applying fungicides as necessary.
- Rust: This fungal disease causes orange or brown spots on the leaves and stems. Infected plant parts should be removed and destroyed, and fungicides can be applied to prevent further infection and spread.
Pest Management
Oxalis priceae Small ssp. texana (Small) Eiten can also be affected by a variety of pests, including insects and mites. Some common pests that might feed on this plant include:
- Spider mites: These tiny pests feed on the plant's sap, causing the leaves to turn yellow and drop prematurely. They can be managed by spraying the plant with water to increase humidity, applying insecticidal soap, or introducing natural predators like ladybugs.
- Aphids: These small insects feed on the plant's sap, causing the leaves to curl and become distorted. They can be managed by washing them off with water, applying insecticidal soap, or introducing natural predators like lacewings.
- Caterpillars: These larvae feed on the plant's leaves, causing irregular holes and chewed edges. They can be managed by picking them off by hand, using Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) spray, or introducing natural predators like parasitic wasps.
