Overview
Xanthoxalis corniculata (L.) Small is a perennial herb belonging to the family Oxalidaceae. This plant is a common weed found worldwide, and it is popularly known by different names, including horned sourgrass, creeping woodsorrel, prostrate yellow-sorrel and yellow woodsorrel. This plant is often regarded as a nuisance weed in lawns, gardens and agricultural fields, but it is also valued for its medicinal properties and culinary uses.Origin
Xanthoxalis corniculata originated from tropical America, but it has become naturalized in various regions of the world. This plant thrives in warm regions and grows well in disturbed habitats, including lawns, open fields, gardens, and roadsides. It can be found in Asia, North America, Europe, Australia and Africa.Common Uses
Xanthoxalis corniculata has various uses. In some cultures, the plant is traditionally used to treat several ailments such as fever, sore throat, diarrhea, inflammation, stomachache, and wound healing. The leaves of the plant are rich in vitamins C and A, flavonoids, and phenolic compounds that are beneficial to human health. The edible leaves of Xanthoxalis corniculata can be consumed raw or cooked and can be used in salads, sandwiches or soups. The plant also serves as an excellent source of food for some herbivorous animals, such as rabbits, hares, or deer. In terms of agricultural use, Xanthoxalis corniculata has a symbiotic relationship with Rhizobium bacteria in its roots, which helps fix nitrogen in the soil and improves soil fertility.General Appearance
Xanthoxalis corniculata is a low-growing plant that has a creeping habit. The leaves of the plant are trifoliate and heart-shaped, with a bright green color that turns yellowish with age. Each leaflet is approximately 1.5 to 2 cm long and has a light bulge on the upper surface of the midvein. The stems are wiry and reddish-brown, and they can grow up to 30 cm in length. The plant produces small yellow flowers with five petals that bloom in the summer and fall. Finally, the fruit is a small capsule that contains several small seeds.Light Requirements
Xanthoxalis corniculata (L.) Small commonly known as Yellow Sorrel or Creeping Woodsorrel is known to thrive in full sunlight or partially shaded areas. It prefers to grow in direct sunlight. It can grow in shaded areas, but the leaves and stem tend to be less of a vibrant yellow color and more green.
Temperature Requirements
Xanthoxalis corniculata (L.) Small is adaptable to various temperature conditions. It can tolerate cold temperatures and even frost for brief periods. However, it prefers warmer temperatures ranging from 70°F to 85°F. Its growth rate decreases in temperatures below 60°F, and it may undergo dormancy.
Soil Requirements
Xanthoxalis corniculata (L.) Small thrives in well-drained, moist soil. It can grow in various soil types, including loamy, clayey, and sandy soils. However, it prefers loamy soils rich in organic matter. It can tolerate soil pH levels ranging from acidic to alkaline, but it prefers slightly acidic soils with pH levels of 5.8 to 6.5.
Cultivation Methods
Xanthoxalis corniculata, commonly known as yellow sorrel, is an easy-to-grow plant that can thrive in different types of soil. It is best grown in loamy or sandy soil that is well-draining, as excessive moisture can lead to root rot. The plant prefers a sunny location but can tolerate some shade during the hottest parts of the day. It is an annual or short-lived perennial plant that can reseed itself easily.
Watering Needs
The plant requires regular watering during the growing season to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. It is important to avoid over-watering, as this can lead to root rot and other fungal diseases. Once established, the plant can tolerate some drought, but extended periods of dryness can cause the plant to wilt and die. Water the plant deeply once or twice a week, depending on the weather and soil conditions.
Fertilization
Xanthoxalis corniculata does not require heavy fertilization. The plant can derive most of its nutrients from the soil, but it can benefit from a light application of balanced fertilizer in late spring or early summer. Use a slow-release fertilizer to avoid burning the roots. Overfertilization can lead to excessive growth, which can make the plant more susceptible to disease and pests.
Pruning
The plant does not require much pruning, but regular deadheading can help extend the blooming period and encourage more flowers. Pinch off the spent blooms as they fade, taking care not to damage the healthy foliage. This will also prevent the plant from reseeding itself and spreading too quickly. The plant can be cut back severely in the fall to control its size and prevent it from becoming invasive.
Propagation
Xanthoxalis corniculata (L.) Small, commonly known as "yellow woodsorrel" or "Creeping woodsorrel", belongs to the family Oxalidaceae and is a herbaceous plant. It can be propagated by several methods such as:
Seed propagation
The plant produces small seeds that can be sown in a pot or seedbed during the spring season. The soil should be moist, well-draining, and rich in organic matter. The seeds should be covered with a thin layer of soil and kept in a warm, bright, and humid place. The seeds usually germinate within two to four weeks. Once the seedlings are big enough, they can be transplanted into individual pots or the desired location.
Division
Xanthoxalis corniculata can also be propagated through division. This method is best suited for mature plants and should be done during the spring season. The plant should be carefully dug up and the root ball should be separated into several sections. Each section should have healthy roots and shoots. The sections can then be replanted in individual pots or the desired location. It is important to keep the soil moist until the new shoots begin to grow.
Cuttings
The plant can also be propagated by stem cuttings during the spring or summer season. Cuttings should be taken from healthy and mature plants. The cuttings should be about 5-10 cm long and should have a few leaves attached to it. The leaves on the lower half of the stem should be removed, and the cuttings should be dipped in rooting hormone. The cuttings can then be planted in well-draining soil and kept in a warm and humid place. The new plantlets usually start to root within three to four weeks.
Disease Management
Xanthoxalis corniculata (L.) Small is prone to a few diseases that can damage their growth and overall health. Here are a few common diseases and management tips:
Leaf spot disease
If you notice small, circular spots on the leaves, it could be leaf spot disease. The infected parts eventually become brown and fall off. To prevent the spread of this disease, remove the infected leaves and ensure that you do not overwater the plants. Consider using a fungicide spray to control the spread.
Root rots
Root rot is a common fungal disease that affects the roots, causing them to turn brown or black. This disease thrives in wet, poorly-drained soil, so ensure that you do not overwater the plant. The infected plant may appear to wilt and have stunted growth. To manage root rot, remove the severely infected parts, and repot the plant in fresh, sterile soil.
Pest Management
Xanthoxalis corniculata (L.) Small can also be affected by a few pests that can damage their growth and overall health. Here are a few common pests and management tips:
Aphids
Aphids are small insects that suck the sap from the plant, causing the leaves to become yellow and distorted. To manage aphids, consider using insecticidal soap, neem oil, or a strong blast of water to knock them off the plant. You can also introduce natural predators like ladybugs and lacewings to control their population.
Spider mites
Spider mites are small arachnids that spin webs on the plants and suck the sap, causing yellowing of leaves and stunted growth. They thrive in hot and dry conditions. To manage spider mites, consider increasing humidity levels around the plant, pruning away the heavily-infested parts and spraying insecticidal soap or neem oil to control their population.
Mealybugs
Mealybugs are small, white, cotton-like insects that can cause severe damage by sucking the sap from the plant. They often cluster on tender shoots and plant crevices. To manage mealybugs, remove the heavily-infested parts, dab the insects with rubbing alcohol or insecticidal soap, and introduce natural predators like ladybugs and lacewings.
