Overview
Oxalis stenocarpa Schltr., also known as Narrow-ovary wood sorrel, is a species of flowering plant in the Oxalidaceae family. It is native to the humid forests of Central and South America, and it has also been introduced in other parts of the world.Common Names
Oxalis stenocarpa Schltr. is commonly known as Narrow-ovary wood sorrel and Jícaro in Spanish.General Appearance
This plant is a perennial herbaceous plant that grows up to 20 cm tall. It has trifoliate leaves that are bright green and shaped like a heart. The flowers of Oxalis stenocarpa Schltr. are small and yellow, produced in loose clusters on long, thin stalks. The plant's fruits are narrow and elongated capsules, and each contains many seeds.Uses
Oxalis stenocarpa Schltr. has several medicinal properties and is used traditionally by indigenous communities. The leaves are used topically to treat skin irritations and inflammation, and the plant's juice is used to treat mouth ulcers. This plant is also used as a food source in some regions, and its young leaves are eaten raw in salads or cooked in soups. Additionally, some people cultivate this plant as an ornamental flower due to its attractive foliage and bright yellow flowers.Growth Conditions of Oxalis stenocarpa Schltr.
Oxalis stenocarpa Schltr., commonly known as the narrow-fruit wood-sorrel, is a small herbaceous plant that thrives in specific growth conditions. The following are the typical growth conditions for this plant:
Light Requirements
Oxalis stenocarpa requires a good amount of light to grow. However, direct sunlight can damage their leaves. Therefore, it is recommended to place the plant in partial shade or an area with filtered sunlight. On average, the plant requires about 6-8 hours of light per day for optimal growth.
Temperature Requirements
The plant grows well in warm temperatures, which range between 15 to 25 degrees Celsius. However, it can tolerate temperatures as low as 7 degrees Celsius. Temperatures below this range can lead to stunted growth or even death of the plant.
Soil Requirements
The soil requirements for Oxalis stenocarpa are essential for the plant's growth and development. The plant prefers well-draining soils with a pH range of 6.0-7.0. The soil should also be rich in organic matter to provide sufficient nutrients for growth. It is recommended to water the plant regularly and avoid waterlogging to prevent root rot.
Fertilization
The plant responds well to regular fertilization with a balanced fertilizer. It is recommended to feed Oxalis stenocarpa with fertilizer every two weeks to support optimal growth.
Propagation
Oxalis stenocarpa propagates through seeds or divisions. It is recommended to sow the seeds in well-drained soils and cover them lightly with soil. For divisions, it is essential to allow the roots to develop before moving the new plant to a larger container.
By following these growth conditions, one can successfully grow and maintain Oxalis stenocarpa Schltr. as a healthy and vibrant plant.
Cultivation methods
Oxalis stenocarpa Schltr., also known as the narrow-fruited wood-sorrel, requires a warm temperature range of 60-70°F (16-21°C) and a moderate to high level of humidity. It prefers well-drained soil with a slightly acidic pH level between 5.5 to 6.5. If planting in pots or containers, ensure that it has enough drainage holes to prevent waterlogging.
The best time to plant Oxalis stenocarpa seeds is in early spring. Sow the seeds 1-2 inches deep and 2-3 inches apart. They take approximately 1-2 weeks to germinate. Once the seedlings are established, space them out every 4-6 inches.
Watering needs
When it comes to watering, Oxalis stenocarpa is quite resilient and can tolerate dry soil. However, it's important to ensure that the soil is consistently moist but not waterlogged. The frequency of watering depends on the environment and climate, but as a general guideline, water the plant once a week and increase the frequency during the dry season.
Fertilization
Oxalis stenocarpa is a light feeder and does not require frequent fertilization. Apply a balanced fertilizer, such as 10-10-10, once a month during the growing season. Overfertilization can cause the plant to produce fewer flowers and promote leaf growth, so it's essential to follow the recommended dosage.
Pruning
Oxalis stenocarpa does not require regular pruning. Remove any dead or damaged foliage to maintain the plant's appearance and promote new growth. If the plant becomes too leggy, cut it back to encourage the growth of new leaves and flowers. Avoid pruning during the dormant season as it can delay the plant's growth and harm its health.
Propagation of Oxalis stenocarpa Schltr.
Oxalis stenocarpa Schltr. can be propagated through seed or vegetative methods like bulbs, corms, and cuttings.
Seed Propagation
The fresh seeds of Oxalis stenocarpa Schltr. can be sown and they germinate readily. It is recommended to sow the seeds in a well-draining potting mix just covering them with a thin layer of soil. Water the soil and keep it moist but not waterlogged as the seeds can rot. Provide bright, indirect light and a warm and humid environment, and the seeds will germinate within 2 to 3 weeks.
Vegetative Propagation
Bulbs: Oxalis stenocarpa Schltr. develops small bulbs that can be harvested and replanted. The bulbs should be dug up gently and replanted at the same depth as they were before. Water the new soil and place the pot in partial shade. The bulbs will develop new growth in a few weeks.
Corms: Corms are a type of modified stem and can be harvested from the main plant. These corms can be replanted at any time of the year. Demarcate the upper side of the corms and plant them at the appropriate depth. The new corms will form on top of the old corm, and new growth appears within a few weeks.
Cuttings: Cuttings are taken from the main plant to propagate Oxalis stenocarpa Schltr. They must be taken from the tip of the plant, below a node where the leaves meet the stem. Cut a 4-inch piece, remove the lower leaves, and plant it in a well-draining potting mix. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged, and place the pot in bright and indirect light. New roots will form in 4 to 6 weeks, and the new plant will be ready for potting in 2 to 3 months.
Disease and Pest Management for Oxalis stenocarpa Schltr.
As with all plants, Oxalis stenocarpa Schltr. is vulnerable to various diseases and pests that can damage its growth and reduce its yield. Effective disease and pest management is essential to ensure the health and productivity of the plant.
Common Diseases
Some of the common diseases that can affect Oxalis stenocarpa Schltr. include fungal leaf spots, root rots, and bacterial blights. Fungal leaf spots are usually caused by excessive moisture and can be identified by circular or irregular spots on the leaves. Root rots, on the other hand, are caused by fungus that attacks the roots and can lead to yellowing and wilting of the plant. Bacterial blights, characterized by dark spots on the leaves and stems, are caused by bacteria and can spread rapidly within the plant.
Disease Management
To manage fungal leaf spots and root rots, it is important to maintain proper drainage and avoid overwatering. Removing infected leaves and debris can also help control the spread of the disease. For bacterial blights, using disease-resistant varieties of Oxalis stenocarpa Schltr. is the best option. Applying copper-based fungicides can also help control the spread of disease.
Common Pests
Some of the common pests that can affect Oxalis stenocarpa Schltr. include spider mites, aphids, and whiteflies. Spider mites can be identified by the presence of fine webbing on the plant and can cause yellowing and wilting of the leaves. Aphids, on the other hand, are small green or black insects that suck the sap from the plants, causing stunted growth and curled leaves. Whiteflies are also sap-sucking insects that can cause yellowing of the leaves and lead to the spread of plant viruses.
Pest Management
To manage spider mites, regular spraying of the plant with water can help reduce their numbers. Introducing beneficial insects such as ladybugs and lacewings can also help control spider mites and other pests. For aphids and whiteflies, applying insecticidal soap or neem oil can help control their populations. Another effective pest management technique is to use physical barriers such as netting to prevent the entry of pests into the plant.
