Description of Oxalis stricta L. var. piletocarpa Wieg.
Oxalis stricta L. var. piletocarpa Wieg. is a perennial herbaceous plant known by several common names, including yellow woodsorrel, common yellow oxalis, and lemon clover. This plant is native to North America and can be found in nearly every state of the United States, as well as in Mexico and Canada.
The plant grows up to 30 cm tall and spreads outwards through rhizomes and stolons. The leaves are trifoliate, with each leaflet measuring 1-2.5 cm long and wide, and is heart-shaped or slightly rounded at the base. They are bright green in color and may have a purplish tinge.
The flowers of Oxalis stricta L. var. piletocarpa Wieg. are bright yellow in color and are relatively small, measuring about 1 cm in diameter. They bloom from late spring to early fall and can be found in clusters at the ends of branching stems. The seeds are small, brown and round, and they are dispersed by self-fertilization or by the wind and rain.
Uses of Oxalis stricta L. var. piletocarpa Wieg.
The common name "lemon clover" arises from the sour taste of this plant's leaves, which are edible and can be used to flavor soups, salads, and other dishes. Some medicinal uses have also been attributed to this plant, such as treatment for stomach aches, fever, and scurvy.
Oxalis stricta L. var. piletocarpa Wieg. is also used as an ornamental plant, grown in containers or landscapes. It is a popular plant among rock garden enthusiasts because of its attractive foliage and flowers, and it can also be grown as a ground-cover in shaded areas.
Light Requirements
Oxalis stricta L. var. piletocarpa Wieg. generally grows well in partial to full sunlight. It requires at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day to prosper. Indoors, the plant fares well in a west- or south-facing window.
Temperature Requirements
The ideal temperature for Oxalis stricta L. var. piletocarpa Wieg. to grow ranges between 60 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit (15 and 24 degrees Celsius). The plant is not frost-tolerant and must thrive in a warm climate with a minimum temperature of 50 degrees Fahrenheit (10 degrees Celsius).
Soil Requirements
Oxalis stricta L. var. piletocarpa Wieg. prefers a well-drained, fertile soil that is moist but not waterlogged. The pH of the soil should be mildly acidic, between 5.5 and 6.8. The plant benefits from the addition of organic matter, such as compost, to the soil to enhance its fertility.
Cultivation Methods
The Oxalis stricta L. var. piletocarpa Wieg. plant is best grown in well-draining soil and a location that receives partial shade or full sunlight. It can grow in USDA hardiness zones 4 to 9. The plant can be propagated by dividing the bulbs or by planting seeds directly into the soil. When planting bulbs, they should be planted about 1 to 2 inches deep and with a spacing of at least 6 inches between bulbs.
Watering Needs
The Oxalis stricta L. var. piletocarpa Wieg. plant requires moderate watering. The soil should be kept moist, but not too wet. Overwatering can cause root rot, which can lead to the death of the plant. It is important to allow the soil to dry out a bit between watering sessions. During the winter months, watering should be reduced to once every two weeks or so.
Fertilization
The Oxalis stricta L. var. piletocarpa Wieg. plant benefits from regular feeding during the growing season. A balanced, water-soluble fertilizer should be used every two weeks. Over-fertilizing can lead to rapid growth, but also decreased flowering and a weak plant. Fertilization should be stopped during the winter months.
Pruning
Oxalis stricta L. var. piletocarpa Wieg. plant requires minimal pruning. The plant naturally dies back during the winter months, so any dead or yellowing leaves can be removed during that time. If the plant becomes too leggy or is overcrowding, it can be pruned back in the springtime after blooming. To encourage bushier growth, pinch back the tips of the stem when it’s young to encourage branching.
Propagation of Oxalis stricta L. var. piletocarpa Wieg.
Oxalis stricta L. var. piletocarpa Wieg., commonly known as Woodsorrel or Sourgrass, is a hardy plant that can be propagated through multiple methods, including division, stem cuttings, and seeds.
Division
Division is the simplest and most common method of propagating Oxalis stricta. The plant can be divided in early spring or fall when the plant is actively growing. Dig up the clump of the parent plant and gently separate the plant into smaller clumps, making sure each clump has a good root system. Replant the clumps in separate pots or directly into the ground, making sure the soil is moist and well-drained.
Stem Cuttings
Oxalis stricta can also be propagated through stem cuttings, which should be taken in spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing. Cut 4 to 6 inches long stem cuttings from the parent plant, making sure each cutting has several leaves. Dip the cuttings in rooting hormone and plant them in a pot filled with moist potting soil. Cover the pot with a plastic bag to create a humid environment, and place it in bright, indirect light. Keep the soil moist and watch for new growth, which will indicate that the cutting has successfully rooted.
Seeds
Seeds can also be used to propagate Oxalis stricta, but it is a less reliable method. Collect the seeds from the parent plant in late summer and sow them in a tray or pot filled with moist potting soil. Lightly cover the seeds with soil and keep the soil moist. Place the tray or pot in bright, indirect light and maintain a temperature of around 70°F. Germination should occur within 2-3 weeks.
The propagated Oxalis stricta plants should be cared for in the same way as the parent plant. With proper care, they will grow into healthy plants that will produce beautiful blooms and striking foliage.
Disease and Pest Management for Oxalis stricta L. var. piletocarpa Wieg.
Oxalis stricta L. var. piletocarpa Wieg., commonly known as Pilose Yellow Wood Sorrel, is susceptible to various diseases and pests. It is important to implement effective disease and pest management practices to ensure the plant's health and longevity.
Common Diseases
Fungal diseases such as powdery mildew, rust, and leaf spot can affect Pilose Yellow Wood Sorrel. Powdery mildew is characterized by a white powdery layer on the leaves, while rust appears as small orange or brown spots on the underside of the leaves. Leaf spot disease causes dark spots to appear on the leaves, often leading to premature leaf drop.
To manage these diseases, it is recommended to remove and destroy any infected plant debris and ensure proper air circulation around the plant. Additionally, using a fungicide spray according to the manufacturer's instructions can help prevent and control fungal diseases.
Common Pests
Several pests can attack Pilose Yellow Wood Sorrel, including aphids, spider mites, and slugs. Aphids and spider mites are small, sap-sucking insects that can cause distortions and discoloration on the leaves. Slugs can also damage the leaves and stems, leaving a slime trail behind.
To manage these pests, it is important to regularly inspect the plants and remove any visible insects or pests by hand. Using an insecticidal soap or neem oil spray can also help control aphids and spider mites. Additionally, placing copper barriers around the base of the plant can help deter slugs.
Implementing these disease and pest management practices can help keep Pilose Yellow Wood Sorrel healthy and thriving.
