Origin and Common Names
Oxalis pusilla R.Knuth is commonly known as the tiny wood sorrel or small yellow oxalis. It is a small, leafy plant that belongs to the oxalidaceae family. The plant is native to South America, specifically in Brazil, Uruguay, and Argentina.General Appearance
The tiny wood sorrel is a small herbaceous plant that grows up to 6 cm tall. It has a yellow flower with five petals that are around 5-7 mm in diameter. Each petal has a dark yellow spot near its base. Its leaves are trifoliate, meaning it has three small leaflets with a heart-shaped base that is around 3.5-5 mm long. The plant's stem is slender and glabrous. It is usually green in color and can sometimes have a reddish tint. The flowers bloom in the summer, and the plant produces tiny, capsule-like fruits that contain small, grayish-brown seeds.Uses
The tiny wood sorrel has a sour taste, and its leaves are used as a culinary herb. It is commonly used as an edible garnish for salads or as a souring agent in soups and stews. Some people also use it to make tea, which is said to have a refreshing and tangy taste. Aside from its culinary uses, the tiny wood sorrel is also used for medicinal purposes. It is believed to have diuretic and anti-inflammatory properties that can help relieve urinary tract infections, rheumatism, and liver ailments. Overall, the tiny wood sorrel is a versatile and useful plant that has many culinary and medicinal applications.Light Requirements
Oxalis pusilla R.Knuth is a plant that thrives well in a bright, indirect sunlight environment. It is best suited for partially shaded areas that receive around 3-4 hours of direct sunlight, especially during the early hours of the morning. Direct sunlight for an extended period can burn the leaves and cause damage to the plant.
Temperature requirements
The plant is well adapted to warm and humid conditions and is better suited for a temperature range between 18-22°C (64-72°F).It is important to protect the plant from extremely high temperatures and dry conditions.
Soil requirements
Oxalis pusilla R.Knuth requires moist soil that is well-draining and rich in nutrients. The ideal soil pH range is between 6.0-6.5. It is important to avoid overwatering the plant as it can lead to root rot. A balanced fertilizer should be applied in moderation once in every month to ensure proper growth and development.
Cultivation methods
Oxalis pusilla R.Knuth is commonly referred to as the creeping wood sorrel. It thrives well in well-drained soils and slightly acidic soils that have a pH range of 6.1-6.5. To cultivate this plant, it is recommended to use a well-draining soil mix or a potting mix that typically includes peat moss, sand, and perlite. This plant prefers to grow in a shaded area and can also tolerate full sun, but it is important to keep the soil moist to prevent it from wilting.
Watering needs
The Oxalis pusilla R.Knuth requires consistently moist soil, but it is crucial not to overwater the plant. Overwatering can lead to root rot and ultimately kill the plant. Watering should be done once the soil feels dry or the leaves start to droop. The frequency of watering varies depending on the location and climate. A general rule of thumb is to water once or twice a week if the plant receives moderate sunlight. It is also important to use room temperature or lukewarm water as cold water can shock the roots and damage the plant.
Fertilization
It is advisable to fertilize Oxalis pusilla R.Knuth once a year, preferably during the growing season, which is in spring and summer. An organic liquid fertilizer or slow-release fertilizer works well for this plant. Applying excessive fertilizer might lead to the plant producing more foliage than flowers. It is also recommended that the fertilizer should contain a balanced amount of nitrogen, potassium, and phosphorus as imbalanced nutrients can lead to stunted growth and yellowing of leaves.
Pruning
The Oxalis pusilla R.Knuth plant does not require regular pruning. However, removing dead or yellow leaves and stems is crucial to maintain the plant's health and enhance its growth. Pruning should be done using a sterilized and sharp knife or scissors to ensure that the wounds are clean and do not cause infections. It is also advisable to prune after the plant has produced flowers to prevent damaging the buds and reducing the plant's bloom potential.
Propagation of Oxalis pusilla R.Knuth
Oxalis pusilla R.Knuth, commonly known as the miniature pink wood sorrel, can be propagated through seeds or division of rhizomes.
Propagation through Seeds
To propagate Oxalis pusilla through seeds, you can wait until the seed pods have dried, and gently open them to collect the seeds. Before planting, it is recommended to soak the seeds in water for 24 hours to break down their hard seed coat. You can then sow the seeds in well-draining potting soil, keeping them moist but not waterlogged. Provide the pot with enough sunlight, and within a few days, the first shoots should appear.
Propagation through Division of Rhizomes
You can propagate Oxalis pusilla through division of rhizomes at any time of the year. Carefully lift the plant out of the soil, and remove any excess soil. You can then separate the rhizomes by gently pulling them apart. Each division should have two to three healthy shoots. Plant these divisions in well-draining potting soil, keeping them moist but not waterlogged. Provide the pot with enough sunlight, and within a few days, new shoots should appear.
Disease and Pest Management for Oxalis pusilla R.Knuth
As with any plant, Oxalis pusilla R.Knuth is susceptible to diseases and pests that can harm its growth and overall health. It is essential to monitor the plant for any signs of damage to prevent issues from spreading throughout the plant or to other plants nearby. Here are some common diseases and pests that might affect the Oxalis pusilla R.Knuth and suggestions on how to manage them.
Common Diseases
1. Powdery Mildew: Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that appears as a white or grayish coating on the leaves, stems, and flowers. It can reduce the growth and vigor of the plant. To manage this disease, it's recommended to prune away infected plant parts and spray the remaining with a fungicide. You can also add a layer of mulch to prevent spores from spreading.
2. Root Rot: Root rot is a disease caused by water-logged soil, which leads to the decaying of the plant's roots. Signs of root rot include wilting and yellowing leaves. To manage this disease, avoid overwatering, and ensure the soil has proper drainage. Remove the affected parts of the plant and replant the healthy ones.
Common Pests
1. Aphids: Aphids are small insects that suck the sap from the plant's leaves and stems, leading to yellowing and wilting. To manage aphids, wash the plant with soapy water, remove the infected leaves, and apply insecticidal soap.
2. Spider Mites: Spider mites are tiny pests that can cause yellowing of leaves and the presence of tiny webs. A strong stream of water can help knock them off the plant. You can also spray the plant with an insecticidal soap or a miticide.
3. Thrips: Thrips are small insects that feed on plant juices causing small yellow or white patches on the leaves. To manage thrips, prune away infected parts of the plant and spray with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
It's essential to monitor your Oxalis pusilla R.Knuth regularly for diseases and pests and take the necessary steps to manage them promptly. Proper care and attention will help ensure the plant thrives and remains healthy.
