Overview of Oxalis recurva Ell. var. macrantha auct. non (Trel.) Wieg.
Oxalis recurva Ell. var. macrantha auct. non (Trel.) Wieg. is a perennial plant that belongs to the Oxalidaceae family. It is commonly known as the Great Flowering Wood Sorrel or the Showy Wood Sorrel. The plant is native to the western and central regions of North America, especially in the states of California and Oregon. It grows in humid and shaded areas, such as forests, meadows, and along the banks of streams and rivers.
Appearance
The plant has a semi-erect growth habit and can reach up to 30 cm in height. The stem is slender and branching and is covered with fine hair. The leaves of the plant are trifoliate, with each leaflet measuring about 1.5 to 3 cm long and wide. The leaves are green in color and have a heart-shaped base. The flowers of the plant are showy and can grow up to 4 cm in diameter. They have five petals that are pinkish-purple or pink in color, with a white or yellow throat. The sepals are green and are slightly shorter than the petals. The plant blooms from May to July and produces small, ovoid capsules that contain tiny, dark seeds.
Uses
The plant has several medicinal uses, especially among indigenous communities in North America. The leaves and flowers of the plant are used to treat various ailments, such as fever, headache, stomachache, and throat infections. They are also used to alleviate skin irritations and wounds. In addition, the plant has high levels of vitamin C and is used in the preparation of salads, soups, and teas.
The plant is also used as an ornamental plant in gardens and landscapes. Due to its showy flowers, it is a favorite among gardeners who want to add color and dimension to their outdoor spaces. The plant is relatively easy to cultivate and can thrive in shaded and moist areas of the garden. It can also be used as a ground cover, especially in woodland gardens and naturalistic landscapes.
In conclusion, Oxalis recurva Ell. var. macrantha auct. non (Trel.) Wieg. is a versatile plant that has both medicinal and ornamental uses. Its showy flowers and attractive foliage make it a favorite among gardeners, while its medicinal properties make it an important plant for indigenous communities in North America.
Light Requirements
Oxalis recurva Ell. var. macrantha requires a moderate amount of direct sunlight to grow. However, excessive exposure to sun rays can cause damage to the leaves. Therefore, it's recommended to provide partial shade for this plant.
Temperature Requirements
The plant requires a warm temperature range of between 18°C to 27°C (65°F to 80°F) to grow effectively. Exposure to temperatures below 10°C (50°F) can cause frost damage to the foliage leading to stunted growth and reduced flowering.
Soil Requirements
The plant does not require any specialized soil types to grow. However, preference should be put on well-draining clay, loamy or sandy soils, with a pH range of between 5.5 to 6.5. For optimum growth, ensure to supplement the soil with organic matter such as compost or manure to enhance soil fertility and provide an adequate supply of nutrients.
Cultivation Methods
Oxalis recurva Ell. var. macrantha auct. non (Trel.) Wieg. can be grown in a variety of soils, including sandy or loamy soil, as long as it drains well. Plant the bulbs approximately two inches apart and three inches deep. This plant can be grown in a pot or container as long as it is well-draining.
Watering Needs
The plant requires moderate watering. Oxalis recurva Ell. var. macrantha auct. non (Trel.) Wieg. likes to be moist, but not too wet, so make sure the soil drains well. It is best to water the plant after the soil has dried out about an inch down.
Fertilization
Oxalis recurva Ell. var. macrantha auct. non (Trel.) Wieg. does not require much fertilization, but you can provide a little boost in the growth rate by fertilizing occasionally. Use a balanced fertilizer, follow the instructions, and make sure not to over-fertilize.
Pruning
Oxalis recurva Ell. var. macrantha auct. non (Trel.) Wieg. does not require much pruning, but trimming away any yellow, wilting or dead leaves can keep the plant looking healthy. Pinching off spent flowers can encourage more blooms.
Propagation of Oxalis recurva Ell. var. macrantha
Propagation of Oxalis recurva Ell. var. macrantha can be done by various methods such as:
Seeds
Seeds are the primary mode of propagation for Oxalis recurva Ell. var. macrantha. The seeds can be harvested from the mature plants once they dry up. The harvested seeds need to be allowed to dry in a cool and dry place. After drying, the seeds can be sown on a well-draining soil mix. The soil mix needs to be kept moist but not waterlogged. Germination of the seeds can take several weeks to a month.
Vegetative Propagation
Vegetative Propagation can be done by stem cuttings. The stem cuttings need to be taken from healthy and mature plants. The cuttings need to be taken at a length of 6 to 8 cm and dipped in a rooting hormone. The cuttings can be planted in a well-draining soil mix and kept in a warm and humid place. Regular misting of the cuttings can help in the growth of new roots and shoots. Vegetative propagation is a reliable method for the growth of new plants.
Division
Division of the rhizomes can also be done to propagate Oxalis recurva Ell. var. macrantha. The rhizomes need to be carefully separated into several sections. Each section needs to have a healthy growth bud. These sections can be planted in a well-draining soil mix and kept in a warm and humid place. Regular watering of the soil mix can help in the growth of new shoots.
Disease Management
The plant Oxalis recurva is relatively resistant to diseases. However, it can still fall prey to some diseases that could stunt its growth and eventually lead to death. Some of the common diseases that may affect this plant include:
- Leaf spot diseases: This is a fungal disease that mostly affects the leaves of the plant, causing brown or black spots on them. To manage this disease, remove all the affected leaves and improve air circulation around the plant.
- Root rots: This disease is caused by fungi that attack the roots of the plant, leading to root decay, yellowing of the leaves, and wilting of the plant. To prevent this disease, ensure that the soil is well-draining and avoid overwatering the plant.
- Viral diseases: Oxalis recurva can also fall prey to viral diseases such as the common mosaic virus. There is no cure for viral diseases, and the best course of action is to remove the affected plant to prevent the spread of the virus.
Pest Management
The plant Oxalis recurva is also relatively resistant to pests. However, in some instances, the following pests may attack the plant:
- Aphids: These are tiny insects that suck sap from the plant, leading to stunted growth and curling of the leaves. To control aphids, prune the affected parts of the plant, wash them off with soapy water, and introduce ladybugs into the garden.
- Spider mites: These pests are not visible to the naked eye and can cause damage to the leaves of the plant. To control spider mites, spray the plant with neem oil or insecticidal soap.
- Snails and slugs: These pests can eat holes in the leaves and stem of the plant. To manage them, avoid overwatering the plant, sprinkle diatomaceous earth around the plant, or use beer traps to catch and kill them.
Regular inspection of the plant can help detect any pests or diseases early and prevent their spread to other plants in the garden.
