Overview
Oxalis stricta L. var. rufa (Small) Farw. is a species of plant that belongs to the family Oxalidaceae. It is commonly referred to as red wood sorrel. The plant is native to North America and has many medicinal properties.
Description
The red wood sorrel is a low-growing perennial herb that grows only up to a height of 10-30 cm. The leaves of the plant are trifoliate, meaning each leaf consists of three small, heart-shaped leaflets. The flowers of the plant are small and usually have five red or pink petals that are fused at the base. The fruit is a capsule that contains many small seeds, each approximately 1 mm in diameter.
Origin
The red wood sorrel is native to North America, particularly in the eastern and midwestern regions of the United States. It is also found in some parts of Canada. The plant has become naturalized in other parts of the world, including Europe, Asia, and Australia.
Common Names
The red wood sorrel is commonly known by many names, including sourgrass, sheep sorrel, procumbent yellow-sorrel, and Indian sorrel.
Uses
The red wood sorrel has many medicinal properties and has been used for centuries by Native Americans to treat a variety of ailments. The plant's leaves contain high levels of Vitamin C and have been used to treat scurvy, a disease caused by a lack of this vitamin. The crushed leaves have also been used to treat insect bites, skin irritations, and headaches.
In addition to its medicinal properties, the red wood sorrel is also used as a food source. The leaves have a sour or tangy taste and can be eaten raw or cooked. The plant is also used as a natural dye.
Light Requirements
Oxalis stricta L. var. rufa typically grows best in partial shade to full sun. However, prolonged exposure to direct sunlight may cause the leaves to discolor.
Temperature Requirements
The ideal temperature range for Oxalis stricta L. var. rufa is between 65-75°F (18-24°C). This plant can tolerate temperatures as low as 55°F (13°C) and as high as 85°F (29°C). Temperatures below 55°F (13°C) may cause the plant to go dormant.
Soil Requirements
Oxalis stricta L. var. rufa prefers well-draining soils with a pH range between 5.5-7.0. It can tolerate a slightly acidic soil but will not grow well in alkaline soils. This plant also requires moist soils but does not tolerate waterlogging.
Cultivation Guidelines for Oxalis stricta L. Var. Rufa (Small) Farw.
Oxalis stricta L. var. rufa, commonly known as red wood sorrel, is a perennial plant native to North America. Growing this plant is effortless, and with proper care, it can thrive well in various environments. Here are the step-by-step cultivation guidelines for Oxalis stricta:
Planting
The best time to plant red wood sorrel is in early spring or fall. Choose a well-draining soil mix and containers with hole(s) for proper drainage. You can plant seeds or divisions, shallowly planting the seeds or placing the divisions on top of the moist soil. Cover the container with plastic wrap to keep the soil moist. Germination of seeds takes approximately 1-2 weeks.
Watering
The red wood sorrel prefers moist soil. Overwatering can cause root rot, while underwatering can hamper growth and cause its leaves to become droopy. Water the plant when the top inch of the soil feels dry. Ensure that the pot has a drainage hole to control moisture levels and prevent waterlogging. Avoid wetting the foliage since this can cause leafspots.
Fertilization
The red wood sorrel will not need fertilizer if planted in rich soil. However, if you notice slow growth or pale leaves, use a balanced, soluble fertilizer. Apply the fertilizer at half strength every two weeks.
Pruning
The red wood sorrel is a lovely, bushy plant that doesn't require pruning. But if you notice any wilted or yellow leaves, snip them off at the base using garden shears or sharp scissors. This will encourage the plant to divert energy to healthy parts. Deadheading or pinching back spent flowers is advisable in the growth period to encourage more blooms.
Propagation of Oxalis stricta L. var. rufa (Small) Farw.
Oxalis stricta L. var. rufa (Small) Farw., commonly known as the red wood sorrel or red creeping oxalis, is a perennial plant that belongs to the wood sorrel family (Oxalidaceae). This species reproduces through various plant propagation methods such as seeds, division, and stem cuttings.
Seeds
One of the easiest ways to propagate Oxalis stricta var. rufa is through seeds. Collect ripe seeds from the parent plant and store them in a cool and dry place. Sow the seeds in a well-draining potting mix in early spring and cover them with a thin layer of soil. Keep the soil moist and place the pot in a bright and warm location, but away from direct sunlight. The seeds will germinate within two to four weeks, and once the seedlings are large enough to handle, transplant them to individual pots.
Division
Another method of propagating Oxalis stricta var. rufa is through division. This method involves separating the parent plant into smaller sections and replanting them. When the parent plant has overgrown its original pot, carefully remove it from the pot and separate the clumps into smaller ones using a clean and sharp knife. Make sure that each section has enough roots and shoots to develop into a new plant. Replant the new sections into individual pots or in a prepared garden bed. Keep the soil moist and place the container or planting bed in a well-lit location.
Stem Cuttings
Oxalis stricta var. rufa can also be propagated through stem cuttings. Take a 3-4 inch stem cutting from the parent plant and remove the lower leaves. Dip the cut end in rooting hormone powder and plant it in a well-draining potting mix. Water the soil well and place the pot in a bright and warm location, but away from direct sunlight. The cutting will root within 4-6 weeks, and once rooted, transplant the new plant into an individual pot or planting bed.
Overall, Oxalis stricta var. rufa is an easy-to-propagate plant that can be propagated through various methods such as seeds, division, and stem cuttings. With a little care and attention, you can have a garden full of these vibrant and attractive plants.
Disease Management
Some common diseases that might affect the plant Oxalis stricta L. var. rufa (Small) Farw. are:
- Leaf Spot: Caused by fungi, this disease results in the formation of circular or irregular spots on the foliage of the plant. It can be managed by avoiding overhead watering, removing infected leaves, and treating the plant with a fungicide.
- Powdery Mildew: This disease is characterized by the development of a powdery white or gray coating on the leaves and stems of the plant. It can be managed by ensuring proper air circulation, watering at the base of the plant, and treating the plant with a fungicide.
- Rust: This disease is identified by the reddish-brown spots on the foliage of the plant. It can be managed by removing infected leaves, avoiding overhead watering, and treating the plant with a fungicide.
Pest Management
Some common pests that might affect the plant Oxalis stricta L. var. rufa (Small) Farw. are:
- Aphids: These small insects can cause distortion and yellowing of the leaves. They can be managed by spraying the plant with a strong stream of water, introducing beneficial insects that prey on aphids, or treating the plant with an insecticide.
- Spider Mites: These pests are identified by the presence of fine webbing on the plant and can cause yellowing of the leaves. They can be managed by removing infected leaves, increasing humidity around the plant, or treating the plant with an insecticide.
- Whiteflies: These tiny white insects can cause yellowing and wilting of the leaves. They can be managed by introducing beneficial insects that prey on whiteflies, using yellow sticky traps to attract and capture them, or treating the plant with an insecticide.
