Overview
Oxalis versicolor L. var. versicolor is a small, herbaceous perennial plant from the family Oxalidaceae. It is commonly known by several vernacular names, including the candy cane sorrel, rainbow sorrel, and painted oxalis. The plant is native to South Africa and has become widely naturalized in other parts of the world due to its striking appearance.
General Appearance
The oxalis versicolor plant stands at a height of 20-30 cm and usually has a spreading habit. The leaves are trifoliate, bright green, and heart-shaped, measuring about 2-3 cm across. The flowers occur in clusters and are large, showy, and produced on long stalks. The blooms consist of five petals and are distinctively bi-colored, with half the petal being white, while the other half is alternately red, pink, or purple. The plant produces seeds, which are tiny, kidney-shaped, and brown.
Uses
Oxalis versicolor 'Candy Cane' is a popular ornamental plant often used in container gardening and as ground cover. The vibrant foliage and unique bi-colored blooms make it an ideal choice for brightening up a garden or patio setting. It is also grown as a houseplant in areas where it is too cold to grow outside. The plant can be propagated easily from its bulbs and is relatively low maintenance, only requiring regular watering and occasional fertilization.
Light requirements
Oxalis versicolor L. var. versicolor requires bright, filtered light for optimal growth. Direct sunlight can cause the leaves to wilt and scorch, so it is best to provide shade during peak hours of the day if grown in direct sunlight areas.
Temperature requirements
The ideal temperature range for the growth of Oxalis versicolor L. var. versicolor is between 65°F to 75°F. It is important to keep the plant away from cold drafts as they are sensitive to temperature changes, below 50°F can cause leaf drop and cold injury. On the other hand, high temperatures can lead to rapid plant growth and early senescence of the leaves.
Soil requirements
The Oxalis versicolor L. var. versicolor prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. A pH range of 6.0 to 6.5 is believed to be optimal. The soil surface should be kept moist, but the plant is susceptible to root rot when the soil remains excessively wet. The plant should be fertilized monthly with a balanced houseplant fertilizer, during the growing season.
Cultivation of Oxalis versicolor L. var. versicolor
Oxalis versicolor L. var. versicolor requires well-draining soil, preferably a mixture of peat moss, coarse sand, and perlite. The plant enjoys partial shade to full sunlight. The ideal temperature range for the plant is 15°C to 25°C.
Watering Needs of Oxalis versicolor L. var. versicolor
The plant enjoys regular watering but should not be overwatered. Ideally, the soil needs to be kept slightly moist but not waterlogged to avoid root rot. Water the plant thoroughly and let the soil dry before watering again. During the winter months, water less frequently.
Fertilization of Oxalis versicolor L. var. versicolor
The plant requires feeding every two weeks during the growing season. Use a balanced fertilizer that is high in phosphorus and potassium and low in nitrogen. Increase the frequency of feeding if the plant appears to be weak or stressed.
Pruning of Oxalis versicolor L. var. versicolor
To promote bushier growth, pinch off the tips of the plant regularly. Trim back any dead or damaged leaves. Remove any flowers that have faded to promote new blooms. Pruning can be done at any time of year, but it is best to do it during the growing season.
Propagation of Oxalis versicolor L. var. versicolor
Oxalis versicolor L. var. versicolor can be propagated through various methods. Here are a few of the most common:
Division
Division is the easiest and most common method of propagating Oxalis versicolor L. var. versicolor. This plant has creeping stems and forms small bulbs at the end of each stem. Simply digging up the plant and dividing the bulbs is a quick and easy way to propagate it. Division should be done in the early spring or fall.
Seeds
Oxalis versicolor L. var. versicolor can also be propagated by seeds. Collect the seeds when the pods turn brown and open, and the seeds can be seen. Sow the seeds in well-drained soil, keep the soil moist, and germination should occur within a few weeks. This method can take longer and may be less reliable than other methods of propagation.
Cuttings
Cuttings can also be used to propagate Oxalis versicolor L. var. versicolor. Take 2-3 inch long stem cuttings with a few leaves attached and plant them in a well-draining soil mix. Keep the soil moist and place the cuttings in a bright, indirect light. In a few weeks, the cuttings should root and start developing new growth.
Overall, Oxalis versicolor L. var. versicolor is an easy plant to propagate. Division is the quickest and easiest method, while seeds and cuttings may take longer but can also yield successful results. By using these propagation methods, you can easily propagate and expand your collection of Oxalis versicolor L. var. versicolor.
Disease and pest management for Oxalis versicolor L. var. versicolor
Oxalis versicolor L. var. versicolor, commonly known as the candy cane sorrel, is a beautiful and unique plant that requires proper care to keep it healthy and free from pests and diseases. Here are some common diseases and pests that might affect the plant and ways to manage them:
Common diseases
One of the most common diseases that affect Oxalis versicolor is fungal leaf spot. It presents as small brown or black spots on the leaves, and it can cause leaf drop and weaken the plant. To manage fungal leaf spot, remove the affected leaves immediately and ensure proper air circulation by avoiding overcrowding of plants. Water the plant at its base, and avoid splashing water on the leaves.
Another disease that could affect the plant is root rot caused by overwatering or poorly drained soil. Signs of root rot include yellowing leaves, wilting, and stunted growth. To manage root rot, remove the affected plant from the soil, trim any rotting roots, and repot in fresh, well-draining soil.
Bacterial soft rot can also affect the plant, mainly caused by poor hygiene during handling. It manifests as soft, water-soaked lesions on the plant's leaves, flowers, and fruits. To manage bacterial soft rot, practice good hygiene by keeping the plant clean and using sterilized tools when pruning or handling it. Remove affected parts and avoid overwatering the plant.
Common pests
The most common pests that affect Oxalis Versicolor are spider mites and mealybugs. Spider mites are tiny pests that feed on the plant's sap and leave small yellow or white spots on the leaves. They thrive in hot, dry conditions, making it essential to maintain sufficient humidity levels to avoid infestation. To manage spider mites, spray the plant with a solution of mild detergent, warm water, and neem oil.
Mealybugs are also common pests that attach to the plant's underside, feeding on its sap and causing stunted growth. They manifest as white, cotton-like masses on the leaves and stems. To manage mealybugs, use a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol to remove the bugs and apply neem oil to repel future infestations.
Overall, managing disease and pests in Oxalis Versicolor requires constant monitoring and proper care. Keeping the plant clean, well-watered but not overwatered, and maintaining appropriate humidity levels is essential in keeping it healthy and free from pests and diseases.
