Origin and Common Names
Oxalis versicolor L. var. latifolia Wolley-Dod is a small attractive plant that belongs to the family Oxalidaceae. It is commonly known as Candy Cane Sorrel, Candy Cane Oxalis, or Peppermint Rock Oxalis. This plant is originally from South Africa and can be found growing naturally in sandy soil or on rocky outcrops.General Appearance
Candy Cane Sorrel is a perennial herb that grows up to 30cm tall. It has an upright stem that bears several trifoliate leaves with a bright green color. The leaflets of the plant have a distinctive "V" shape, which is why it is sometimes called "Good Luck Plant." The plant also has a fleshy underground stem called a rhizome. One of the most striking features of Candy Cane Sorrel is its flowers. The plant produces showy white flowers that are streaked with pink or red. The flowers are cup-shaped and have five petals that form a star-like shape. Each flower is around 2 cm broad and 2.5 cm long.Uses
Candy Cane Sorrel is valued as an ornamental plant and is widely cultivated in gardens and as a houseplant. It is particularly popular in rock gardens and container gardening. The plant's attractive flowers and colorful foliage make it a favorite among gardeners. In addition to its ornamental value, Candy Cane Sorrel has also been used in traditional medicine to treat a variety of ailments. The leaves of the plant are rich in vitamin C and have been used to treat scurvy. They have also been used to relieve stomachaches, fever, and other common ailments. Overall, Candy Cane Sorrel is a charming and useful plant that is sure to brighten up any garden or home.Light Requirements
Oxalis versicolor L. var. latifolia Wolley-Dod requires bright, indirect sunlight for optimal growth. Direct sunlight may cause scorching of leaves, whereas low light conditions may inhibit flowering and cause leggy growth. Therefore, it is recommended to place the plant in a brightly lit area with filtered light.
Temperature Requirements
The plant thrives in temperatures between 18°C to 22°C. It is important to avoid exposing the plant to temperatures below 10°C or above 30°C, as this may lead to leaf drop and stunted growth. Therefore, it is best to keep the plant in a moderately warm environment with good air circulation.
Soil Requirements
The plant prefers a well-draining soil that is slightly acidic to neutral (pH 5.5-7.0). A mix of peat moss, perlite, and sand is ideal for promoting healthy root growth and sufficient moisture retention. It is important to avoid waterlogged soil, as this may lead to root rot and eventual death of the plant.
Cultivation Methods for Oxalis versicolor L. var. latifolia Wolley-Dod
Oxalis versicolor L. var. latifolia Wolley-Dod is native to South Africa but can be cultivated in other parts of the world under suitable conditions. It is a bulbous perennial plant that can grow up to 10 inches in height. To cultivate this plant, you will need to follow these steps:
- Plant the bulbs in well-drained soil in a location that has partial shade.
- Plant the bulbs at a depth of about 2 inches and with a spacing of about 6 inches between each bulb.
- Water the bulbs moderately until they germinate, ensuring that the soil is always moist.
- After the plant has established roots and showed foliage, provide it with occasional feeding to keep it healthy.
Watering Needs for Oxalis versicolor L. var. latifolia Wolley-Dod
Oxalis versicolor L. var. latifolia Wolley-Dod needs moderate watering, which means you should keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Avoid allowing the soil to dry out completely because that can cause damage to the plant.
To ensure adequate watering, you can use a moisture meter to measure the soil's moisture level or insert your finger into the soil to check its moisture level. Water the plant when the top inch of the soil feels dry to the touch. During hot, dry weather or in the summer season, you can water the plant more frequently.
Fertilization
Fertilize Oxalis versicolor L. var. latifolia Wolley-Dod once every two weeks during its active growth phase, which is spring and summer. You can use a balanced fertilizer that is rich in nitrogen, potassium, and phosphorus. Follow the instructions on the fertilizer package and mix it with water before applying it to the plant.
During the non-growth season, reduce feeding and only fertilize the plant once a month.
Pruning
Oxalis versicolor L. var. latifolia Wolley-Dod requires minimum pruning. You can remove any dead, damaged, or diseased leaves or stems from the plant to keep it healthy. If you want to propagate the plant, you can remove the bulbs from the parent plant in autumn and replant them in a different location or container.
Trimming the plant's leaves or stems to control its size or shape is not necessary because the plant is small and grows in a contained fashion.
Propagation of Oxalis versicolor L. var. latifolia Wolley-Dod
Oxalis versicolor L. var. latifolia Wolley-Dod, commonly known as "Candy Cane Sorrel," is a beautiful trailing plant that originated in South Africa. It is typically propagated through seeds and by division of the rhizomes.
Seed Propagation
The seeds of Oxalis versicolor L. var. latifolia Wolley-Dod are small and round. They can be collected from the mature pods when they turn brown or black in color. The collected seeds should be soaked in warm water for a few hours before sowing them in a well-draining potting mixture. The seeds take around two weeks to germinate and are slow growers.
Division of Rhizomes
Oxalis versicolor L. var. latifolia Wolley-Dod forms a dense clump of rhizomes underground. These rhizomes can be divided during the plant's growth phase or during dormancy. To propagate through division, carefully dig up the plant, remove the soil, and separate the rhizomes. Each division should have a few healthy roots and shoots. Plant the divisions in a suitable location, water them adequately, and keep them in a shady place for a few days to let the roots establish.
Disease Management
Like any other plant, Oxalis versicolor L. var. latifolia Wolley-Dod is also susceptible to various diseases. The most common diseases that affect the plant are fungal and bacterial infections. Therefore, it is essential to recognize the symptoms of these diseases and take appropriate measures to manage them efficiently.
One of the most common fungal diseases that affect the plant is powdery mildew. This disease is characterized by a white or gray powder-like substance on the leaves, stems, and flowers. To control powdery mildew, it is crucial to maintain proper air circulation and keep the foliage dry. Applying fungicides may also be necessary to control the disease.
Another fungal disease that affects Oxalis versicolor L. var. latifolia Wolley-Dod is root rot. This disease is caused by overwatering or poorly drained soils. Symptoms include wilting, yellowing of leaves, and root decay. To manage root rot, it is necessary to reduce watering frequency and improve drainage in the soil.
Regarding bacterial infections, the most common disease that affects the plant is bacterial soft rot. This disease can cause wilting, softening, and decay of the plant tissues. To control bacterial soft rot, it is essential to remove infected plant parts and avoid overcrowding of plants, which can promote the spread of the disease.
Pest Management
Despite being less prone to pest attacks, Oxalis versicolor L. var. latifolia Wolley-Dod can still be attacked by pests. The most common pests that affect the plant are aphids and whiteflies. It is necessary to identify these pests' signs and eliminate them while still in their early stages.
Aphids are tiny insects that can be identified by their pear-shaped bodies. They can cause stunted growth, curling of leaves, and yellowing of leaves. To control aphids, it is necessary to wash them off with a strong jet of water and apply insecticidal soap. The use of neem oil or horticultural oil can also be an effective control measure.
Whiteflies are small, winged insects that are usually found on the underside of leaves. Infestations can cause leaf yellowing, wilting, and defoliation. To control whiteflies, it is necessary to use yellow sticky traps and apply insecticidal soap. The use of neem oil or horticultural oil can also be an effective control measure.
Overall, managing diseases and pests affecting Oxalis versicolor L. var. latifolia Wolley-Dod requires regular monitoring and prompt action. By following proper cultural practices and applying appropriate control measures, growers can ensure their plants are healthy and thriving.
