Oxalis Corniculata
Contents
Description
Oxalis Corniculata, commonly known as Creeping Woodsorrel, is a perennial weed that belongs to the Oxalidaceae family. This invasive plant is native to Europe, Asia, and North Africa but has spread to other parts of the world, including the Americas, Africa, and Australia.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Oxalidales |
| Family | Oxalidaceae |
| Genus | Oxalis |
Appearance
Creeping Woodsorrel has a distinctive clover-like appearance with heart-shaped leaves that are divided into three leaflets. The leaves are green and have a sour taste due to the oxalic acid content. The plant produces yellow flowers that bloom from May to October. It spreads by producing tiny bulbils on the stem that can grow into new plants.
Care Guide
Creeping Woodsorrel is a hardy plant that can tolerate a wide range of growing conditions. It prefers moist, well-drained soil and partial shade but can also grow in full sun. It is drought-tolerant and does not require regular watering. Fertilization is not necessary as the plant can thrive in poor soil. It is hardy in USDA zones 4 to 8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Creeping Woodsorrel is not typically affected by pests or diseases. However, it can be susceptible to powdery mildew, which causes a white powdery coating on the leaves. It can also be affected by rust, which causes orange pustules on the leaves.
Habitat
Creeping Woodsorrel can grow in a variety of habitats, including lawns, gardens, fields, and waste areas. It prefers cool, moist environments and can grow in both sun and shade. It can spread quickly and become invasive, crowding out other plants.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Creeping Woodsorrel poisonous?
A: The plant is not toxic to humans or animals, but it can be harmful in large quantities due to the oxalic acid content.
Q: Can Creeping Woodsorrel be used for medicinal purposes?
A: Yes, the plant has been used in traditional medicine to treat a variety of ailments, including fever, diarrhea, and skin conditions.
Q: How can I control the spread of Creeping Woodsorrel?
A: The best way to control the spread of the plant is to remove it by hand, making sure to remove all of the bulbils. You can also use an herbicide specifically designed for oxalis.
Q: Can Creeping Woodsorrel be used as a ground cover?
A: Yes, the plant can be used as a ground cover in areas where other plants cannot grow. However, it can become invasive and crowd out other plants.
Related Plants
- Oxalis Stricta
- Oxalis Deppei
- Oxalis Triangularis
- Oxalis Pes-Caprae
References
- “Creeping Woodsorrel (Oxalis Corniculata).” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=d129.
- “Oxalis Corniculata (Creeping Woodsorrel).” Illinois Wildflowers, www.illinoiswildflowers.info/weeds/plants/cr_woodsorrel.htm.
- “Oxalis Corniculata.” Invasive Species Compendium, www.cabi.org/isc/datasheet/116874.
