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Description
Oxalis Hirta, commonly known as hairy wood sorrel or mountain oxalis, is a perennial flowering plant that belongs to the Oxalidaceae family. This plant species is native to South Africa and is widely distributed across the globe, especially in areas with a Mediterranean climate. Oxalis Hirta is an attractive plant with delicate pink, white, or yellow flowers that bloom in spring and summer. The plant has a unique leaf structure, with three heart-shaped leaflets that are hairy and have a distinct sour taste. This plant grows up to 30 centimeters tall and spreads through rhizomes or self-seeding.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Oxalidales |
| Family | Oxalidaceae |
| Genus | Oxalis |
| Species | Oxalis Hirta |
Appearance
The Oxalis Hirta plant has a unique and attractive appearance. It grows up to 30 centimeters tall and has hairy stems and leaves. The leaves are made up of three heart-shaped leaflets that have a sour taste. The flowers of the plant are delicate and come in pink, white, or yellow color, with a diameter of about 1.5 centimeters. The plant blooms in spring and summer, and the flowers last for a few weeks. The fruit of the plant is a capsule that contains small, black seeds.
Care Guide
Oxalis Hirta is a low maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips to help you take care of your plant:
- Water: The plant prefers slightly moist soil, so water it regularly, but do not overwater it.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil with a slightly acidic pH level.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers partial shade to full sun exposure.
- Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 7 to 10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Oxalis Hirta is a relatively pest and disease-free plant. However, it is susceptible to root rot if the soil is too wet. The plant can also attract aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies, which can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Oxalis Hirta is native to South Africa and is widely distributed across the globe, especially in areas with a Mediterranean climate. The plant grows in open grasslands, rocky slopes, and forest edges. It prefers well-draining soil and partial shade to full sun exposure.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Oxalis Hirta an invasive species?
A: No, Oxalis Hirta is not considered an invasive species. However, it can self-seed and spread through rhizomes, so it is recommended to keep it in check.
Q: Can Oxalis Hirta be grown indoors?
A: Yes, Oxalis Hirta can be grown indoors as long as it receives sufficient sunlight and water.
Q: How often should I fertilize my Oxalis Hirta plant?
A: Fertilize your Oxalis Hirta plant with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
Q: How do I propagate Oxalis Hirta?
A: Oxalis Hirta can be propagated through division or by planting its seeds.
Related Plants
- Oxalis Acetosella
- Oxalis Corymbosa
- Oxalis Deppei
- Oxalis Regnellii
References
- “Oxalis Hirta.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b537.
- “Oxalis Hirta.” PlantZAfrica, www.plantzafrica.com/plantnop/oxalishir.htm.
- “Oxalis Hirta.” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/plants/16721/i-oxalis-hirta-i/details.
