Contents
Description
Oxalis Alpina, also known as Alpine Wood Sorrel or Mountain Sorrel, is a flowering plant that belongs to the Oxalidaceae family. It is a perennial herbaceous plant that grows up to 20cm in height. This unique plant is commonly found in rocky and alpine habitats, making it a popular choice for rock gardens and borders. The plant has clover-shaped leaves that are typically green but can also be purple or red. The leaves are up to 2cm long and have three leaflets that close up at night. The flowers are yellow and bloom from May to August. The plant produces small bulbs that can be used for propagation.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Oxalidales |
| Family | Oxalidaceae |
| Genus | Oxalis |
Appearance
Oxalis Alpina has clover-shaped leaves that are typically green but can also be purple or red. The leaves have three leaflets that close up at night. The flowers are yellow and bloom from May to August. The plant produces small bulbs that can be used for propagation.
Care Guide
Water: Oxalis Alpina prefers well-draining soil that is kept moist but not waterlogged. Water the plant regularly during the growing season but reduce watering in the winter when the plant is dormant.
Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Soil: Oxalis Alpina prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
Sunlight: Oxalis Alpina prefers partial shade or full sun. In hot climates, it is best to provide the plant with some shade during the hottest part of the day.
Hardiness Zones: Oxalis Alpina is hardy in USDA zones 3-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Oxalis Alpina is susceptible to spider mites, aphids, and mealybugs. To prevent these pests, keep the plant in a well-ventilated area and remove any infected leaves. The plant is also susceptible to root rot, which can be prevented by providing well-draining soil and not overwatering the plant.
Habitat
Oxalis Alpina is commonly found in rocky and alpine habitats. It is native to Europe and Asia but has been introduced to North America.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Oxalis Alpina be grown indoors?
A: Yes, Oxalis Alpina can be grown indoors in a bright, well-lit area.
Q: How often should I fertilize Oxalis Alpina?
A: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season.
Q: Can Oxalis Alpina tolerate full sun?
A: Yes, Oxalis Alpina can tolerate full sun but may require some shade in hot climates.
Q: How do I propagate Oxalis Alpina?
A: Oxalis Alpina can be propagated by dividing the bulbs in the fall or early spring.
Related Plants
- Oxalis triangularis
- Oxalis acetosella
- Oxalis deppei
References
- “Oxalis alpina.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c300.
- “Oxalis alpina.” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/7873/Oxalis-alpina/Details.
- “Oxalis alpina.” Plant Finder, www.whiteflowerfarm.com/oxalis-alpina.
