Overview:
Oxalis reclinata Jacq. var. quinata T.M.Salter is a perennial plant species that belongs to the family Oxalidaceae. This plant is native to South America, where it is widely distributed and commonly found in Brazil, Uruguay, and Argentina. It is also known by several other common names, such as creeping wood sorrel, straight-stalked wood sorrel, and five-leaved wood sorrel. The plant has been introduced to other regions around the world, where it has become naturalised.
Appearance:
The creeping wood sorrel is a low-growing perennial plant that can reach heights of up to 25cm. Its stem is thin and wiry, and it spreads out horizontally, rooting at regular intervals along the stem. The leaves of this plant are trifoliate, meaning they are divided into three leaflets, which are heart-shaped and bright green. The flowers are produced on a slender stalk, and each has five pinkish-mauve petals that are fused at their base.
Uses:
The creeping wood sorrel is known to have several medicinal properties. The leaves of the plant are used in traditional medicine to treat a range of health conditions, including high blood pressure, fever, and bronchitis. The plant also contains compounds that have antioxidant properties. In addition to its medicinal uses, the plant is also used as a food. The leaves of the plant are edible and have a sour taste. They can be used fresh in salads, cooked as a vegetable, or used to make a tea.
Cultivation:
The creeping wood sorrel is an easy plant to grow, and it can be propagated by both seeds and cuttings. The plant prefers well-drained, moist soil and grows best in partial shade. It is also frost-tolerant and can grow in a range of soil types. In some areas, the plant can be invasive, and care should be taken when planting it in a garden or other landscape setting.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, Oxalis reclinata Jacq. var. quinata T.M.Salter is a useful plant with several medicinal and culinary uses. Its bright green leaves and distinctive pinkish flowers make it a welcome addition to any garden, and its resistance to frost and tolerance of a range of growing conditions make it an easy plant for both professional and amateur cultivators to grow successfully.
Light Requirements
Oxalis reclinata Jacq. var. quinata T.M.Salter is a plant that thrives in partial to full shade. It needs about 3-4 hours of filtered light per day to sustain its growth. However, it is not advisable to expose it to direct sunlight as it may scorch the leaves and stunt its growth.
Temperature Requirements
This plant can grow in a range of temperatures between 15°C and 28°C. However, it prefers a cooler temperature of about 18°C to 21°C. It cannot tolerate extreme temperatures, so it is best to keep it in a controlled environment such as a greenhouse or indoors.
Soil Requirements
Oxalis reclinata Jacq. var. quinata T.M.Salter prefers loose, sandy soil that is well-draining. It needs soil that is slightly acidic, with a pH of 5.5 to 6.5. Adding organic matter to the soil such as compost or peat moss can improve its structure and fertility. It is essential to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged as it can lead to root rot and other fungal diseases.
Cultivation methods
Oxalis reclinata Jacq. var. quinata T.M.Salter, also known as Andean Sorrel, is a hardy perennial plant that grows well in temperate climates. To cultivate this plant successfully, start by choosing a well-draining soil mix that is rich in organic matter. Andean Sorrel prefers a location that receives partial shade, especially during the hottest part of the day.
When planting, ensure that the soil is moist and plant the seeds at a depth of 0.25 inches. Cover the seeds with soil and maintain a consistent temperature of about 65 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit until they germinate. This usually takes between 7 and 14 days.
Watering needs
Andean Sorrel requires regular watering to thrive. The plant prefers moist soils, but it is important not to overwater as this can lead to root rot. Water the plant deeply once a week, ensuring that the soil is moist to a depth of at least an inch. During warmer weather or if the plant is growing in a container, it may require more frequent watering.
Fertilization
Andean Sorrel benefits from regular fertilization to promote growth and flowering. Use a balanced fertilizer with an NPK ratio of 10-10-10 or 20-20-20 every 4-6 weeks during the growing season. Follow the manufacturer's instructions on the packaging for application rates and frequency.
Pruning
Prune Andean Sorrel back to the ground in late fall or early winter after it has gone dormant. This helps to remove any diseased or damaged parts of the plant while also promoting new growth in the spring. During the growing season, pinch back the stem tips to encourage bushier growth and more flowers.
Propagation of Oxalis reclinata Jacq. var. quinata T.M.Salter
Oxalis reclinata Jacq. var. quinata T.M.Salter can be propagated through different methods, including:
Seed Propagation
Propagation through seeds is relatively easy since Oxalis reclinata Jacq. var. quinata T.M.Salter produces numerous seeds. To propagate through seeds, collect the seed pods and allow them to dry. Once the pods have dried, open them and collect the seeds. Plant the seeds in a seed-raising mix and cover with a thin layer of the mix. Keep the soil moist and place the container in a warm and bright location. Germination should occur in 1-2 weeks, and the seedlings should be kept moist and warm.
Vegetative Propagation
Oxalis reclinata Jacq. var. quinata T.M.Salter can also be propagated vegetatively through division, bulb offsets, and stem cuttings:
Division
Division involves splitting the clump of bulbs into smaller sections and replanting them. To do this, carefully dig up the plant and gently remove the soil from the bulbs' roots. Gently pull the bulbs apart and separate them into smaller sections. Replant the sections back into the ground, making sure they are at the same depth as the original plant.
Bulb Offsets
Bulb offsets are miniature bulbs that grow around the parent bulbs. They can be detached from the parent bulb and planted separately. Gently dig up the plant and remove the soil from the roots, and carefully separate the offsets from the parent plant. Replant the offsets in the same soil type and depth as the parent plant.
Stem Cuttings
Stem cuttings can be taken in the spring and summer months when new growth is present. Cut a section of stem that is approximately 2-3 inches in length and remove the lower leaves. Dip the cut end of the stem in rooting hormone powder and plant it in a pot filled with a mixture of peat and perlite. Keep the soil moist and the cutting in a warm location. Rooting should occur within 2-3 weeks, and the new plant can then be planted directly into the ground.
Disease Management
Oxalis reclinata Jacq. var. quinata T.M.Salter can be susceptible to several diseases that may impede their health and growth. Fungal diseases are typically the most common culprits to afflict this plant species, such as leaf spot, rust, and powdery mildew.
The best way to manage these diseases is to maintain proper plant hygiene and create an environment that is not conducive to their growth. Prune infected leaves and stems as soon as they are detected, and dispose of them safely. Increase the space between plants to improve air circulation and reduce humidity, as humid environments can enhance the growth of fungal spores.
Additionally, consider applying fungicides as a preventative measure. Ensure that the fungicide is suitable for the specific fungal disease affecting the plant species and follow the instructions on the label to avoid unintentional damage.
Pest Management
The pests that commonly affect Oxalis reclinata Jacq. var. quinata T.M.Salter are spider mites, aphids, and mealybugs. These pests can suck out the plant's sap and weaken it, causing stunted growth and yellowing of leaves.
To manage pests in this plant species, first, inspect and identify affected plants. Isolate the infected plants to prevent the further spread of the pests. Use a strong jet of water to blast off the pests from the plant or pluck off the infested leaves and dispose of them appropriately.
Alternatively, consider using insecticidal soaps or neem oil sprays as a natural pest control method. Ensure that the chosen product is safe for use on the plant species and follow the instructions on the label.
Regularly monitoring plant health and practicing good hygiene practices is essential to prevent the spread of pests and diseases and maintain healthy growth of Oxalis reclinata Jacq. var. quinata T.M.Salter.
