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Description
Oxalis Spiralis, commonly known as the African Wood Sorrel or the Spiral Oxalis, is a native plant of South Africa. It belongs to the Oxalidaceae family, which comprises about 800 species of plants distributed worldwide. This perennial plant has thin, green stems that grow up to 12 inches long and produces small, yellow flowers that bloom in the summer. The leaves of the Oxalis Spiralis are trifoliate, meaning they have three heart-shaped leaflets that are slightly twisted, giving them a spiral appearance, hence the name.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Oxalidales |
| Family | Oxalidaceae |
| Genus | Oxalis |
Appearance
The Oxalis Spiralis is a unique plant due to its spiral-shaped leaves. The leaves are trifoliate, meaning they have three heart-shaped leaflets. The leaves are bright green in color and slightly twisted, giving them a spiral appearance. The plant produces small yellow flowers that bloom in the summer, which are held above the leaves on thin stems. The plant can grow up to 12 inches in height and width, making it a great addition to any garden or as a potted plant.
Care Guide
The Oxalis Spiralis is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some care tips:
Water: The plant prefers moist but well-draining soil. Water the plant when the top inch of soil is dry.
Fertilization: Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season.
Soil: The plant prefers rich, well-draining soil. A mixture of peat moss, perlite, and potting soil works well.
Sunlight: The plant prefers partial shade to full sun. It can tolerate some shade but may not flower as much.
Hardiness Zones: The Oxalis Spiralis is hardy in USDA zones 8-11. In colder climates, it can be grown as an indoor plant or dug up and stored during the winter.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Oxalis Spiralis is relatively pest and disease-free. However, here are some common problems:
Pests: Aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies can infest the plant. Use insecticidal soap to control the infestation.
Diseases: The plant can suffer from root rot if overwatered. Ensure the soil is well-draining and water the plant only when the top inch of soil is dry.
Habitat
The Oxalis Spiralis is native to South Africa but has been introduced to other parts of the world, including the United States. The plant prefers warm, humid climates with well-draining soil. It can be grown as an outdoor plant in USDA zones 8-11 and as an indoor plant in colder climates.
Question and Answer
Q: Can the Oxalis Spiralis be grown as a houseplant?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown as an indoor plant in colder climates.
Q: Does the plant require a lot of maintenance?
A: No, the plant is relatively low-maintenance and easy to care for.
Q: Can the plant be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in containers as long as the soil is well-draining.
Q: Does the plant attract bees and butterflies?
A: Yes, the plant produces small yellow flowers that attract bees and butterflies.
Related Plants
- Oxalis Deppei
- Oxalis Hedysaroides
- Oxalis Regnellii
- Oxalis Triangularis
References
- “Oxalis Spiralis.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=281649. Accessed 10 Sept. 2021.
- “Oxalis Spiralis.” Plant Care Today, 17 Feb. 2021, plantcaretoday.com/oxalis-spiralis.html. Accessed 10 Sept. 2021.
- “Oxalis Spiralis.” The Spruce, 6 Apr. 2021, www.thespruce.com/oxalis-spiralis-plant-profile-4847329. Accessed 10 Sept. 2021.
