Overview of Oxalis stenorrhyncha T.M.Salter
Oxalis stenorrhyncha T.M.Salter, commonly known as Narrow-fruit wood-sorrel or Amatlán de los Reyes, is a beautiful low-growing plant that produces showy pink flowers. It belongs to the family Oxalidaceae, which is comprised of approximately 900 species of herbs, shrubs, and trees.
Origin of Oxalis stenorrhyncha T.M.Salter
Oxalis stenorrhyncha T.M.Salter is native to Guatemala and Mexico, but it can also be found in other parts of Central America and some regions in South America. It thrives in warm, humid, and shady areas such as tropical and subtropical forests, and it can grow up to one foot in height.
Common Names of Oxalis stenorrhyncha T.M.Salter
Oxalis stenorrhyncha T.M.Salter is known by different common names depending on the location. In Mexico, it is called Amatlán de los Reyes or Amatlán, while in Guatemala, it is known as bijol or bijol blanco. The plant is also referred to as Narrow-fruit wood-sorrel due to its small and narrow fruit capsules.
Uses of Oxalis stenorrhyncha T.M.Salter
The plant has a long history of medicinal and culinary uses. It has been traditionally used in treating various ailments such as stomachache, inflammation, and skin problems. The leaves and stems are also used to prepare a refreshing drink in Guatemala, while in Mexico, the plant is used as a spice for different dishes. Oxalis stenorrhyncha T.M.Salter is also grown as an ornamental plant due to its striking pink flowers and attractive foliage.
Description of Oxalis stenorrhyncha T.M.Salter
Oxalis stenorrhyncha T.M.Salter has trifoliate leaves with a distinct clover shape, and they are dark green on the upper surface and lighter green on the lower surface. The pink flowers have five petals and a bright yellow center, and they bloom in clusters of up to five flowers. The plant's stem is reddish-brown and grows from an underground tuber. The fruit capsules are tiny and elongated, resembling a small pea pod.
Overall, Oxalis stenorrhyncha T.M.Salter is a beautiful plant that offers medicinal and culinary benefits and adds an elegant touch to gardens and landscapes.
Light Requirements
Oxalis stenorrhyncha T.M.Salter thrives in partial shade to full sun conditions. It is best to avoid placing the plant in direct sunlight for extended periods, especially during the hot afternoon hours as it can scorch the leaves. Bright, indirect light is optimal for the growth of this plant.
Temperature Requirements
The plant can tolerate a temperature range of 15°C-30°C (59°F-86°F). It prefers cool temperatures and can be grown both indoors and outdoors.
Soil Requirements
The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The pH range for optimal growth of Oxalis stenorrhyncha T.M.Salter is between 5.5-7.5. It is recommended to mix sand or perlite with the soil to improve drainage and aeration.
Cultivation methods
Oxalis stenorrhyncha T.M.Salter plant belongs to the Oxalidaceae family and it can be grown indoors or outdoors, depending on the climate. It grows well in well-drained soils that are rich in organic matter. They require full to partial sunlight to thrive. If grown outdoors, it is necessary to plant the Oxalis stenorrhyncha T.M.Salter in an area that receives adequate sunlight and has fertile and well-draining soil. Alternatively, when grown indoors, it is necessary to place it near a window or a spot receiving enough light.
Watering needs
The Oxalis stenorrhyncha T.M.Salter plant requires moderate watering. Ensure the soil is kept moist at all times by watering once or twice a week during the growing season. Water the plant only when the topsoil has gone dry. However, it is essential to avoid waterlogging. During the winter months, the watering frequency should be reduced. Overwatering can lead to root rot, which can kill the plant.
Fertilization
The Oxalis stenorrhyncha T.M.Salter plant requires regular feeding to thrive. Fertilize the plant once every two weeks with a diluted solution of balanced liquid fertilizer during the growing season. However, it is important to avoid overfertilization as it can lead to the build-up of salts and other chemicals that can damage the plant.
Pruning
Pruning Oxalis stenorrhyncha T.M.Salter is essential to prevent overcrowding. Remove any dead, yellowing, or damaged leaves or stems immediately. Pruning should be carried out during the growing season. Minimal pruning is required, and it is essential to use clean and sharp pruning tools to avoid spreading diseases.
Propagation of Oxalis stenorrhyncha T.M.Salter
Oxalis stenorrhyncha T.M.Salter, also known as Narrow rhizome woodsorrel, can be propagated by several methods, including seed propagation, division, and cuttings.
Seed Propagation
The best time to sow the seeds of Oxalis stenorrhyncha is in the spring. To increase the germination rate, seeds can be soaked in water for 24 hours before sowing. The soil should be moist, well-draining, and rich in organic matter. The seeds need light to germinate, so they should be sown on the surface and not covered with soil. Keep the soil moist and within a temperature range of 65 to 75°F. Germination should occur within a week or two.
Division
Division is a simple and effective way to propagate Oxalis stenorrhyncha. It can be done at any time of the year, but spring is the best time. Dig up the plant and carefully separate the rhizomes. Each rhizome should have at least one bud or shoot. Replant the divisions immediately and water well. The new plants should start to grow within a few weeks.
Cuttings
Oxalis stenorrhyncha can also be propagated from stem cuttings. The cuttings should be taken in the spring when the plant is actively growing. Select a healthy shoot with several leaves and cut it off at a 45-degree angle. Remove the lower leaves, leaving only two or three at the top. Dip the cut end in rooting hormone and insert it into a pot with moist, well-draining soil. Keep the soil moist and the cutting in a warm and bright location. Within a few weeks, roots should appear, and a new plant will begin to grow.
Disease and Pest Management for Oxalis stenorrhyncha T.M.Salter
Oxalis stenorrhyncha T.M.Salter, commonly known as Club-shaped Yellow-sorrel, is a beautiful flowering plant that is susceptible to a few pests and diseases. Here are some of the common diseases and pests that can affect this plant, along with the measures to manage them.
Common Diseases
The main diseases that affect Oxalis stenorrhyncha T.M.Salter are:
Root Rot
Root rot is caused by overwatering and poor drainage. The first sign of root rot is the yellowing of leaves, followed by wilting and eventual death of the plant. To manage root rot, water the plant only when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch and ensure the pot has drainage holes. The diseased plant should be removed, and the soil should be sterilized before planting again.
Powdery Mildew
Powdery mildew appears as a white powdery substance on the leaves and stems of plants. It is caused by fungal spores and thrives in areas with high humidity and low air circulation. To manage powdery mildew, remove the affected parts of the plant, increase air circulation, avoid overcrowding, and use a fungicide if necessary.
Common Pests
The main pests that affect Oxalis stenorrhyncha T.M.Salter are:
Spider Mites
Spider mites are small pests that cause the leaves to turn yellow and have a stippled appearance. They thrive in hot and dry conditions. To manage spider mites, increase humidity by misting the plant, avoid over-fertilizing, and use insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Aphids
Aphids are small insects that feed on the sap of plants, causing the leaves to curl and turn yellow. To manage aphids, rinse the plant with a strong spray of water, introduce ladybugs, lacewings, or other natural predators, and use insecticidal soap or neem oil as a last resort.
By regularly inspecting the plant for signs of pests and diseases and taking appropriate measures, Oxalis stenorrhyncha T.M.Salter can thrive, providing a beautiful addition to any garden or home collection.
