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Description
Oxalis Debilis, commonly known as pink wood sorrel or creeping woodsorrel, is a perennial flowering plant that belongs to the Oxalidaceae family. It is native to South America and is widely cultivated in many parts of the world, including the United States, Europe, and Asia. The plant is a popular choice for gardens and landscaping because of its attractive pink flowers and clover-like leaves.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Oxalidales |
| Family | Oxalidaceae |
| Genus | Oxalis |
Appearance
Oxalis Debilis has a low-growing, sprawling habit and typically reaches a height of 6-8 inches. The leaves are trifoliate, meaning they have three leaflets that are heart-shaped and slightly serrated at the edges. The foliage is bright green and can be slightly hairy. The flowers are pink or white, and each bloom has five petals that are arranged in a star shape. The flowers typically bloom in the spring and summer.
Care Guide
Oxalis Debilis is a relatively easy plant to care for and is suitable for both indoor and outdoor cultivation. Here are some tips for keeping your plant healthy:
- Water: Oxalis Debilis prefers moist soil, but it is important not to overwater the plant. Water when the top layer of soil feels dry to the touch.
- Fertilization: Feed your plant with a balanced, all-purpose fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
- Soil: Use well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A pH range of 5.5 to 7.0 is ideal.
- Sunlight: Oxalis Debilis prefers partial shade to full sun. In hot climates, it benefits from some afternoon shade.
- Hardiness Zones: Oxalis Debilis is hardy in USDA zones 8 to 11. In colder climates, it can be grown as an annual or brought indoors during the winter months.
Common Pests & Diseases
Oxalis Debilis is generally not susceptible to many pests and diseases. However, here are some issues to watch out for:
- Aphids: These small insects can cause leaf deformation and yellowing. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control them.
- Spider mites: These tiny pests can cause discoloration and webbing on the leaves. Use a miticide to control them.
- Rust: This fungal disease can cause orange or brown spots on the leaves. Remove affected foliage and treat with a fungicide.
Habitat
Oxalis Debilis is native to South America, where it grows in a variety of habitats, including forests, grasslands, and rocky areas. It prefers moist soil and partial shade but can tolerate a range of growing conditions. The plant has been widely cultivated and naturalized in many parts of the world, including North America, Europe, and Asia.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Oxalis Debilis poisonous?
A: Oxalis Debilis is not toxic to humans or pets, but the plant does contain oxalic acid, which can be harmful in large quantities.
Q: Can Oxalis Debilis be grown indoors?
A: Yes, Oxalis Debilis can be grown indoors in a bright, sunny window. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.
Q: How often should I fertilize Oxalis Debilis?
A: Feed your plant with a balanced, all-purpose fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
Q: Can Oxalis Debilis tolerate drought?
A: Oxalis Debilis prefers moist soil and is not drought-tolerant. Water regularly to keep the soil evenly moist.
Related Plants
- Oxalis triangularis
- Oxalis pes-caprae
- Oxalis stricta
- Oxalis regnellii
References
- “Oxalis Debilis.” Missouri Botanical Garden. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=279285&isprofile=0&.
- “Pink Wood Sorrel.” University of Florida, Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences. https://gardeningsolutions.ifas.ufl.edu/plants/ornamentals/pink-wood-sorrel.html.
- “Oxalis Debilis.” Plant Care Today. https://plantcaretoday.com/oxalis-debilis-plant-care.html.
