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Description
Oxalis Acetosella, commonly known as wood sorrel or common wood sorrel, is a flowering plant that belongs to the Oxalidaceae family. It is a perennial herbaceous plant that grows in woodlands and shaded areas in North America, Europe, and Asia. It is known for its trifoliate leaves and white or pink flowers that bloom in the spring and summer.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Magnoliophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Oxalidales |
| Family | Oxalidaceae |
| Genus | Oxalis |
Appearance
Oxalis Acetosella has trifoliate leaves that are heart-shaped and about 1-2 inches long. The leaflets are usually green but can also be purple or brownish-red. The flowers are white or pink and have five petals that are about 1/2 inch long. The plant can grow up to 6 inches tall and spreads by underground stems.
Care Guide
Oxalis Acetosella is easy to care for and can thrive in a variety of conditions. Here are some tips for taking care of this plant:- Water: Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Water when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.- Fertilization: Fertilize once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.- Soil: Use a well-draining soil mix that is rich in organic matter.- Sunlight: Oxalis Acetosella prefers partial to full shade but can tolerate some sunlight.- Hardiness Zones: This plant is hardy in USDA zones 4-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Oxalis Acetosella is generally pest and disease-free but can be susceptible to fungal diseases like powdery mildew and rust. It can also be affected by aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies. To prevent these issues, make sure the plant is grown in well-draining soil and avoid overwatering.
Habitat
Oxalis Acetosella is native to North America, Europe, and Asia and can be found growing in woodlands, meadows, and shaded areas. It prefers moist, well-drained soil and can tolerate a wide range of temperatures.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Oxalis Acetosella edible?
A: Yes, the leaves and stems of Oxalis Acetosella are edible and have a tangy, sour flavor. They can be used in salads, soups, and other dishes.
Q: What is the cultural significance of Oxalis Acetosella?
A: Oxalis Acetosella has a rich history and is associated with many cultural traditions. In Ireland, it is considered a symbol of good luck and is often worn on St. Patrick’s Day. In Finland, it is used to dye Easter eggs.
Q: How often should I fertilize Oxalis Acetosella?
A: Fertilize once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: Can Oxalis Acetosella be grown indoors?
A: Yes, Oxalis Acetosella can be grown indoors as long as it is placed in a bright, indirect light and the soil is kept moist.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Oxalis Acetosella:- Oxalis Regnellii (Purple Shamrock)- Oxalis Triangularis (False Shamrock)- Oxalis Deppei (Iron Cross)
References
– “Oxalis Acetosella.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=288037.- “Oxalis Acetosella.” Plant Care Today, 16 Nov. 2020, plantcaretoday.com/oxalis-acetosella-plant-care.html.- “Oxalis Acetosella.” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/plants/4515/i-oxalis-acetosella-i/details.
