Overview
Oxalis reclinata Jacq. var. micromera (Sond.) T.M.Salter is a plant species that belongs to the Oxalidaceae family. This plant is native to southern Africa and is commonly known as creeping wood sorrel. It is a perennial herb that has several uses in traditional medicine.
General Appearance
Creeping wood sorrel is a low-growing plant that can reach up to 8 cm in height. It has a spreading habit and can spread up to 30 cm in width. The leaves are trifoliate, usually with a greenish-purple tint, and have a clover-like appearance. The flowers are small and white with five petals and yellow centers. The fruit is a capsule that has four to six compartments, each containing several small seeds.
Common Names
Oxalis reclinata Jacq. var. micromera (Sond.) T.M.Salter is known by several common names, including creeping wood sorrel, violet wood sorrel, and purple wood sorrel.
Uses
In traditional medicine, creeping wood sorrel is used to treat a variety of ailments, including stomach ailments, constipation, and diarrhea. The leaves and stems of this plant are also used as a poultice to treat skin infections and sores. Additionally, creeping wood sorrel is used in some cultures as a culinary herb, although it should be consumed in moderation due to its oxalic acid content.
Overall, Oxalis reclinata Jacq. var. micromera (Sond.) T.M.Salter is a versatile plant with several uses in traditional medicine and culinary applications. Its low-growing habit and clover-like leaves make it an attractive addition to garden beds or as a ground cover in natural areas.
Light Requirements
Oxalis reclinata Jacq. var. micromera (Sond.) T.M.Salter is adapted to grow in full sunlight or partial shade. However, it thrives best in bright, indirect light. Therefore, it is recommended to place them near a window that receives plenty of light or provide artificial lighting if there is not enough natural sunlight.
Temperature Requirements
This plant prefers moderate temperatures and can grow in a range of 10°C to 30°C, but the ideal temperature range is between 16°C to 25°C. The plant is sensitive to extreme temperatures, and temperatures below 10°C can cause plant damage, and temperatures above 35°C may cause wilting and leaf drop.
Soil Requirements
Oxalis reclinata Jacq. var. micromera (Sond.) T.M.Salter grows best in well-drained soils rich in organic matter. It requires a pH range of 5.5 to 6.5, which is mildly acidic. Slightly alkaline soils should be avoided as they can cause nutrient deficiencies. It is recommended to use a potting mix containing peat, perlite, and vermiculite or a well-draining mix of loam, sand, and compost for outdoor planting.
Watering Requirements
This plant requires moderate watering, and care should be taken not to overwater it as it can lead to root rot. It is recommended to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. The frequency of watering may need to be increased during the hot, dry months, and reduced during the colder months. It is suggested to allow the soil to dry out slightly before watering to avoid overwatering.
Cultivation Methods
Oxalis reclinata Jacq. var. micromera (Sond.) T.M.Salter requires planting in well-draining soil with pH levels between 5.6 to 7.0, with high organic matter content. This plant thrives in partial shade to full sun, depending on the climatic conditions of the region. It can be propagated through seeds or the division of bulbs.
Watering Needs
It is important to keep the soil slightly moist but never waterlogged. Overwatering can cause root rot and kill the plant. Watering once a week, or more frequently in hot or dry weather, is usually sufficient for this plant.
Fertilization
To maintain healthy growth, fertilize Oxalis reclinata Jacq. var. micromera (Sond.) T.M.Salter with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer during the growing season. Avoid over-fertilizing as this can result in excessive foliage and reduced flowering.
Pruning
To maintain an attractive shape and encourage bushy growth, prune any dead or damaged leaves and stems regularly. Pinching off the tips of long stems can also promote branching, resulting in a fuller plant.
Propagation of Oxalis reclinata Jacq. var. micromera (Sond.) T.M.Salter
Seed propagation: Oxalis reclinata Jacq. var. micromera (Sond.) T.M.Salter can be propagated from seeds, which can be collected from the plant's flowers. The seeds should be sown in a well-draining potting mix, covering them with a thin layer of soil. The potting mix should be kept moist but not waterlogged. The seeds will germinate in two to four weeks. After germination, the seedlings should be transplanted into individual pots or planted directly in the garden.
Division: Another common method of propagating Oxalis reclinata Jacq. var. micromera (Sond.) T.M.Salter is by division. The best time to divide the plant is in the spring when new growth appears. To do this, carefully lift the plant from the soil and gently separate the roots into smaller sections. Each section should have several healthy leaves and a portion of the root system. The divided plants can be replanted in individual pots or directly in the garden.
Cutting: Oxalis reclinata Jacq. var. micromera (Sond.) T.M.Salter can also be propagated using stem cuttings. Choose a healthy stem and cut it into several sections, each with at least two nodes. Dip the cuttings in rooting hormone, and plant them in a well-draining potting mix. Keep the potting mix moist and place the cuttings in a warm, humid location. The cuttings should root in four to six weeks, and can be transplanted into individual pots or directly in the garden.
Regardless of the method used, newly propagated Oxalis reclinata Jacq. var. micromera (Sond.) T.M.Salter plants should be kept in a warm, humid location with bright but indirect light until they are established.
Disease and Pest Management for Oxalis reclinata Jacq. var. micromera (Sond.) T.M.Salter
As with any plant, Oxalis reclinata Jacq. var. micromera (Sond.) T.M.Salter is also susceptible to diseases and pests. Here are some of the common diseases that might affect this plant and ways to manage them.
Diseases
1. Leaf Spot: This disease is caused by a fungal pathogen and can cause circular, brown spots on the leaves. To manage this disease, remove the infected leaves and dispose of them. Make sure the plant has proper ventilation and space between other plants to prevent the spread of the disease.
2. Root Rot: This disease is caused by overwatering and poor drainage. It can cause the roots of the plant to turn brown and mushy. To manage this disease, reduce watering and improve drainage.
3. Powdery Mildew: This disease is caused by a fungal pathogen and can cause a white, powdery substance to appear on the leaves. To manage this disease, remove the infected leaves and improve ventilation to prevent moisture buildup.
Pests
1. Aphids: These pests are small, pear-shaped insects that can cause yellowing and curling of the leaves. To manage aphids, spray the plant with a mixture of water and dish soap. You can also introduce natural predators, such as ladybugs, to the area to eat the aphids.
2. Spider Mites: These pests are tiny and can cause yellowing and stippling of the leaves. To manage spider mites, spray the plant with water and wipe the leaves with a damp cloth. You can also introduce natural predators, such as predatory mites, to the area to eat the spider mites.
3. Mealybugs: These pests are small and can cause a sticky substance to appear on the leaves. To manage mealybugs, remove them manually using a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol.
By being vigilant and proactive, you can easily manage these common diseases and pests that might affect Oxalis reclinata Jacq. var. micromera (Sond.) T.M.Salter plant.
