Overview
Oxalis teretifolia Jacq., commonly known as the Pink Sorrel, is a flowering plant that belongs to the Oxalidaceae family. This plant is native to South America, specifically in Colombia and Peru, but is now widely distributed in tropical regions around the world.
Description
The Pink Sorrel is a short-growing plant that only reaches a height of 20-25 cm, making it an excellent choice for ground cover. Its leaves are light green in color, and they are round-shaped and have a fan-like appearance when viewed from above. The Pink Sorrel's flowers, which bloom during the summer and autumn months, are stunningly bright pink and have five petals that form a delicate star shape.
Common Names
The Pink Sorrel is commonly known as a Shamrock plant, Sorrel plant, and False Shamrock. These names are due to the plant's association with Oxalis acetosella, commonly known as Wood Sorrel or Shamrock, due to their similar appearance.
Uses
The Pink Sorrel is mainly grown as an ornamental plant for its attractive pink blooms and easy-to-maintain nature. It is commonly used as a ground cover, in rock gardens, and as a container plant in hanging baskets due to its trailing growth habit. The leaves are edible and have a sour, tangy flavor, and they are sometimes used in salads or to add flavor to soups and stews.
However, in some parts of the world such as Guatemala, the plant is used medicinally to treat fever, cough, and digestive problems. It is also used to reduce inflammation and pain and to promote wound healing due to its anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties.
Light Requirements
Oxalis teretifolia Jacq. tends to prefer bright, indirect sunlight. While it can tolerate some direct sunlight, it is best to shield it from harsh, mid-day sun. Keep in mind that inadequate light may cause the plant to become leggy and less dense.
Temperature Requirements
This species of Oxalis thrives in temperatures that range from 60-80 degrees Fahrenheit. It is important to protect the plant from freezing temperatures, as it is susceptible to frost damage. Temperatures below 50 degrees Fahrenheit can cause the plant to become dormant, which may affect its overall growth rate.
Soil Requirements
Oxalis teretifolia Jacq. requires well-draining soil with a slightly acidic pH between 5.5 and 6.5. The soil should be rich in nutrients and organic matter. Ideally, it should be moist but not waterlogged. Sandy loam soil works well for this plant, as it provides good drainage while also retaining moisture.
Cultivation Methods
Oxalis teretifolia Jacq. is a relatively easy plant to grow both indoors and outdoors. It prefers well-draining soil with a slightly acidic pH level ranging from 5.5 to 6.5. The plant likes a bright location with partial shade. When grown indoors, it requires adequate sunlight to thrive. While potting, make sure to leave some space for the growth. The plant needs to be repotted when it outgrows the current pot.
Watering Needs
The watering needs for Oxalis teretifolia Jacq. vary depending on the climate and location. The plant prefers moist but well-drained soil. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so make sure the soil is drained well. The plant is drought-tolerant, so it can withstand short periods of dryness. For indoor potted plants, water when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Outdoor plants do not require frequent watering, and watering once a week is sufficient in humid conditions.
Fertilization
Oxalis teretifolia Jacq. requires regular feeding to encourage healthy growth and blooming. During the growing season, use a balanced liquid fertilizer every two to four weeks. Be cautious not to over-fertilize, as this may lead to salt buildup in the soil. The plant's need for feeding can be determined by its growth rate. It is best to reduce feeding during the dormant period or when the plant is not growing actively.
Pruning
Pruning Oxalis teretifolia Jacq. is a straightforward task, and it involves removing the damaged or yellowing leaves. To promote bushier growth patterns, pinch the plant's stem tips occasionally. This also helps to produce more blooms, so it's wise to pinch flowers after blooming before they set seeds. If the plant becomes leggy or untidy, you can trim it back to promote new growth. Pruning should be carried out gently at the base of the plant without damaging the stem.
Propagation of Oxalis teretifolia Jacq.
Oxalis teretifolia Jacq. is commonly propagated through seeds, stem cuttings, and division of bulbs or rhizomes. The following are the methods and steps involved in each of the propagation techniques:
Propagation by seed
The propagation of Oxalis teretifolia Jacq. through seeds involves the following steps:
- Collect the seeds from the plant pods when they are ripe and dry.
- Clean the seeds and soak them in water overnight to soften their outer layer.
- Plant the seeds in a well-draining potting mix and cover them with a thin layer of soil.
- Maintain a moist environment and keep the pot in indirect bright light.
- The seeds take around 2-3 weeks to germinate, and once they sprout, they can be transplanted into individual pots.
Propagation by stem cuttings
Propagation of Oxalis teretifolia Jacq. through stem cuttings involves the following steps:
- Select a healthy stem from the parent plant and make a clean cut at a node using a sharp and sterile knife.
- Remove the lower leaves from the cutting and dip its end in rooting hormone to enhance the rooting process.
- Insert the cutting into a pot filled with well-draining potting mix, and water it thoroughly.
- Maintain a humid environment around the cutting by covering it with a plastic bag or dome and place it in indirect bright light.
- The cutting should root within 4-6 weeks after which it can be transplanted into a larger pot.
Propagation by division
The propagation of Oxalis teretifolia Jacq. through division involves the following steps:
- Carefully uproot the parent plant from the soil and remove any dead or rotten sections.
- Divide the bulbs or rhizomes into smaller sections, making sure each section has a few healthy roots and shoots.
- Plant each divided section into individual pots containing fresh potting mix.
- Water the pots thoroughly and maintain a humid environment by covering them with a plastic bag or dome.
- The divided sections will root and establish themselves over the next few weeks, after which they can be transplanted into a larger pot.
Disease and Pest Management for Oxalis teretifolia Jacq.
Oxalis teretifolia Jacq., commonly known as Bermuda buttercup or sourgrass, can be attacked by various pests and infections that can damage the plant leading to a reduction in plant growth and production. It is, therefore, essential to understand the different types of diseases and pests that can attack the plant and the various methods that can be used to manage them.
Common Diseases
1. Fungal Infections: Fungal infections can result in spots, blight, or powdery mildew on the leaves and stem of the plant, which can lead to death if not managed. To prevent fungal infections, it is crucial to ensure that the plant is adequately spaced to allow good air circulation, avoid overhead watering, and remove infected plant debris. Fungicides can also be used to control most fungal infections.
2. Bacterial Blight: Bacterial blight causes yellowish-brown spots, which later turn blackish on the leaves of the plant. The bacterium multiplies in warm and humid conditions. To manage bacterial blight, use disinfected tools to prune infected plants and avoid watering the plant from above. Copper-based or Streptomycin-based bactericides can be used to control bacterial blight.
Common Pests
1. Aphids: Aphids are small insects that suck sap from the leaves and stems, causing the plant to yellow and wilt. To manage aphids, remove the infected plant parts, spray the plant with water, and use insecticidal soap.
2. Spider Mites: Spider mites are tiny arachnids that cause the plant to yellow and dry up. To manage spider mites, increase humidity around the plant, remove infected plant material, and apply insecticidal soap or oil.
3. Thrips: Thrips are tiny insects that can cause yellow or white patches on the leaves of the plant. To manage thrips, remove infected plant parts and use insecticidal soap or neem oil.
It is essential to note that prevention is better than cure when it comes to plant disease and pest management. Always maintain good plant hygiene, ensure the plant is adequately spaced, and provide appropriate growing conditions to prevent infections and pest attacks.
