Overview of Oxalis tenella Eckl. & Zeyh.
Oxalis tenella Eckl. & Zeyh., also known as the Violet Wood-sorrel, is a herbaceous plant that belongs to the Oxalidaceae family. It is native to several countries including South Africa, Swaziland, Lesotho, and Zimbabwe. It is commonly found in montane grasslands, rocky outcrops, and forest margins.
General Appearance of Oxalis tenella Eckl. & Zeyh.
The plant grows up to a height of about 15 cm, and produces a non-woody stem that is thin and trailing, with somewhat pubescent and purple-hued leaves. The leaves possess three leaflets that appear triangular in shape, each one with a small tip and often a darker spot at the base. The stem of the plant supports a small inflorescence, with one to three nodding flowers that are pink to purple or sometimes white.
Common Names of Oxalis tenella Eckl. & Zeyh.
Oxalis tenella Eckl. & Zeyh. has several common names, including the Violet Wood-sorrel, Violet Oxalis, and the Wood-sorrel. In Southern Africa, the plant is known as 'Viooltjie,' which translates to 'little violet.'
Uses of Oxalis tenella Eckl. & Zeyh.
In traditional medicine practices, the plant has been used to treat several ailments, including sore throats, fever, and stomach troubles. The crushed leaves were usually applied directly to the affected areas to help with pain relief. The plant is also commonly used as an ornamental garden plant due to its attractive purple leaves and pink to purple flowers. The leaves of the plant are edible and have a sour taste, making them a popular addition to salads and other dishes. Oxalis tenella Eckl. & Zeyh. is also important to insects such as bees and butterflies, which rely on it for nectar.
Light Requirements
Oxalis tenella grows best in bright, indirect light. It needs a minimum of 6 hours of sunlight per day. Exposure to direct sunlight can burn the leaves and cause damage to the plant.
Temperature Requirements
Oxalis tenella prefers a warm and humid environment. It thrives in temperatures between 60°F to 75°F (15°C to 24°C). Temperatures below 50°F (10°C) can lead to stunted growth and yellowing leaves.
Soil Requirements
The soil for Oxalis tenella should be moist, well-draining, and slightly acidic. A pH range of 5.5 to 6.5 is suitable for the plant. The soil should be a mixture of organic matter, such as peat moss or compost, and coarse sand or perlite to ensure proper drainage. The plant does not tolerate waterlogging and can quickly develop root rot.
Cultivation Methods
Oxalis tenella Eckl. & Zeyh. is a herbaceous plant that prefers sunny to partially shaded areas. It grows best in well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. For cultivation, prepare the soil by loosening it to a depth of 12-15 inches and blend compost or aged manure. The seeds need to be planted at a depth of 1/8 inch in groups of 4-5. Keep the soil moist until germination occurs, which typically takes 7-14 days.
Watering Needs
Proper watering is crucial for the growth and development of Oxalis tenella Eckl. & Zeyh. During the growing season, the plant requires a consistently moist soil. However, over-watering can lead to root rot and other fungal diseases. It's best to water the plant deeply once a week and only when the top inch of soil has dried out. During dry weather conditions, increase the frequency of watering and keep an eye out for wilted leaves, which indicates a lack of water.
Fertilization
Oxalis tenella Eckl. & Zeyh. benefits from regular fertilization, especially during the growing season. Nitrogen-rich fertilizers are recommended because they promote healthy foliage growth. You can use a balanced fertilizer with a ratio of 10-10-10 or 20-20-20 once a month. Alternatively, you can apply organic fertilizers such as compost, blood meal, or fish emulsion at the same frequency. Avoid over-fertilizing, as it can lead to weak growth.
Pruning
Pruning stimulates the growth of new shoots, removes damaged or diseased leaves, and maintains the plant's shape. For Oxalis tenella Eckl. & Zeyh., pruning is not required, as the plant has a compact, spreading habit. However, if you notice any dead or yellow leaves or want to shape the plant, use a pair of clean, sharp scissors to cut back the stems to the desired length. Do this in late winter or early spring, before the new growth appears.
Propagation of Oxalis tenella Eckl. & Zeyh.
Oxalis tenella Eckl. & Zeyh., commonly known as Pink-eyed sorrel, is a low-growing perennial plant that belongs to the Oxalidaceae family. The plant possesses a tuberous rootstock that helps it to survive in harsh conditions.
Propagation methods
Oxalis tenella can be propagated through different methods such as:
Seed propagation
The seeds of Oxalis tenella are available commercially. The process of seed propagation should start in spring. The seeds should be sown in small pots or trays containing well-draining soil. The seeds should be covered with a thin layer of soil and kept moist.
After germination, the plants should be transferred into larger pots and kept in a sunny location. Once the plants have grown to a suitable size, they can be transplanted in the garden.
Division
The tuberous rootstock of Oxalis tenella can be divided into smaller sections to propagate new plants. This method is best done in late fall or early spring while the plant is dormant.
First, remove the plant from the soil and shake off any excess soil. Use a sharp, sterile knife to separate the rootstock into smaller sections. Each section should have at least one growing point. Replant the divided sections in well-draining soil and water well.
Cuttings
Oxalis tenella can also be propagated by stem cuttings. Take cuttings from mature plants in the summer months when the plant is actively growing. Select stems that are healthy and free from disease. Make a clean cut just below the leaf node.
Remove the leaves from the lower half of the stem and dip the cut end into rooting hormone powder. Place the cutting in a pot containing well-draining soil, water well, and keep in a warm and humid place until roots are formed.
Propagation of Oxalis tenella can be done through seeds, division, or cuttings. The best method will depend on the grower's preference and the availability of resources.
Disease Management for Oxalis tenella Eckl. & Zeyh.
One of the common diseases that can affect Oxalis tenella is fungal leaf spot. This disease is caused by fungi and can cause spots on the leaves, which can lead to defoliation and a reduction in plant growth. To manage fungal leaf spot, remove the infected leaves from the plant and dispose of them properly to prevent the spread of the fungus. Additionally, it is necessary to avoid overhead watering and ensure the appropriate spacing of plants to allow for air circulation and prevent the accumulation of moisture, which can cause the disease to proliferate.
Another disease that can affect Oxalis tenella is powdery mildew. This disease is characterized by a white or grayish coating on the leaves and can cause stunted growth. To manage powdery mildew, ensure that the plants have appropriate air circulation and remove the infected portions of the plant.
Pest Management for Oxalis tenella Eckl. & Zeyh.
One of the common pests that can affect Oxalis tenella is spider mites. These tiny pests cause damage to the leaves of the plant, causing discoloration and, in severe cases, defoliation. To manage spider mites, frequently rinse the leaves with water to remove the pests and keep the plant well-watered to discourage the mites from settling. Additionally, introducing predatory mites can be an effective means of controlling spider mites.
Another pest that can affect Oxalis tenella is aphids. These pests feed on the sap of the plant and can cause stunted growth and distortion of plant tissues. To manage aphids, use a strong stream of water to remove the pests from the plant, introduce beneficial insects, or apply an insecticidal soap, taking care to follow the instructions on the product carefully.
