Contents
Description
Oxalis Commutata, also known as the mountain oxalis or sourgrass, is a perennial herbaceous plant that belongs to the family Oxalidaceae. It is native to North America and can be found in the mountainous regions of the western United States, including the Rocky Mountains and the Sierra Nevada range. The plant grows up to 8 inches in height and spreads up to 2 feet wide. It produces small white or pink flowers that bloom from April to July.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Oxalidales |
| Family | Oxalidaceae |
| Genus | Oxalis |
Appearance
The leaves of the Oxalis Commutata are trifoliate, with each leaflet measuring up to 1 inch in length. The leaves are pale green to yellowish-green in color and have a sour taste, hence the common name “sourgrass”. The stem of the plant is slender and hairy, and the flowers are small and white or pink in color, with five petals that measure up to 0.5 inches in length.
Care Guide
Oxalis Commutata is a hardy plant that requires minimal care. It grows well in well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. The plant prefers partial shade to full sun, and it can tolerate drought conditions. However, it is important to water the plant regularly during dry spells to prevent the leaves from wilting. The plant can be fertilized once a year in the spring using a balanced fertilizer. It is also important to remove any dead or diseased foliage to promote healthy growth.
The plant is hardy in USDA zones 4 to 8, and it can tolerate temperatures as low as -30°F. In areas with harsh winters, it is recommended to mulch the plant in the fall to protect the roots from freezing.
Common Pests & Diseases
Oxalis Commutata is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if the soil is too wet. To prevent root rot, it is important to ensure that the soil is well-drained and that the plant is not overwatered.
Habitat
Oxalis Commutata is native to North America and can be found in the mountainous regions of the western United States, including the Rocky Mountains and the Sierra Nevada range. The plant grows in open meadows, rocky slopes, and forest clearings. It prefers well-drained soil and partial shade to full sun.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Oxalis Commutata an invasive species?
A: No, Oxalis Commutata is not considered an invasive species.
Q: How often should I water Oxalis Commutata?
A: Water the plant regularly during dry spells, but avoid overwatering as it can lead to root rot.
Q: Can Oxalis Commutata be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Oxalis Commutata can be grown in containers as long as the soil is well-drained and the plant receives sufficient sunlight.
Q: Does Oxalis Commutata attract pollinators?
A: Yes, the small white or pink flowers of Oxalis Commutata attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies.
Related Plants
- Oxalis Acetosella
- Oxalis Oregana
- Oxalis Stricta
- Oxalis Triangularis
References
- “Oxalis Commutata.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=282947&isprofile=0&basic=oxalis%20commutata.
- “Oxalis Commutata.” PlantFiles, Dave’s Garden, https://davesgarden.com/guides/pf/go/55477/.
- “Oxalis Commutata.” Plants of the World Online, Kew Science, http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:435410-1.
