Contents
Description
Oxalis Imbricata, commonly known as the ‘Iron Cross’, is a perennial plant belonging to the Oxalidaceae family. It is native to South America and is known for its unique characteristic of having four petals arranged in the shape of a cross. The plant grows up to a height of 20-25 cm and has clover-like leaves that fold up at night. The flowers are pink or white with a yellow center and bloom in late spring to early summer. The plant is easy to grow and maintain and is a popular choice among gardeners.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Oxalidales |
| Family | Oxalidaceae |
| Genus | Oxalis |
Appearance
The Oxalis Imbricata plant has a unique appearance due to its cross-shaped petals. The plant grows up to a height of 20-25 cm and has a spread of 10-15 cm. The leaves are trifoliate and have a clover-like appearance. They are green in color and fold up at night. The flowers are pink or white with a yellow center and bloom in late spring to early summer. The plant produces small, bulb-like structures that can be used for propagation.
Care Guide
Oxalis Imbricata is an easy plant to grow and maintain. Here are some care tips:
- Water: Water the plant regularly, but avoid overwatering as it can lead to root rot.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant every month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers partial to full sunlight.
- Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 7-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Oxalis Imbricata plant is susceptible to some pests and diseases:
- Pests: The plant can be attacked by spider mites, aphids, and mealybugs.
- Diseases: The plant can be affected by root rot and leaf spot.
Habitat
Oxalis Imbricata is native to South America and is commonly found in Argentina, Bolivia, Chile, and Peru. The plant grows in rocky, mountainous areas and can be found at elevations of up to 3,000 meters above sea level. It prefers well-drained soil and partial to full sunlight.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water Oxalis Imbricata?
A: Water the plant regularly, but avoid overwatering as it can lead to root rot.
Q: What type of soil does Oxalis Imbricata prefer?
A: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
Q: What pests are common to Oxalis Imbricata?
A: The plant can be attacked by spider mites, aphids, and mealybugs.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Oxalis Imbricata?
A: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 7-10.
Related Plants
- Oxalis acetosella
- Oxalis articulata
- Oxalis bowiei
- Oxalis corymbosa
- Oxalis corniculata
References
- “Oxalis Imbricata.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c935. Accessed 27 Sept. 2021.
- “Oxalis Imbricata.” PlantZAfrica, pza.sanbi.org/oxalis-imbricata/. Accessed 27 Sept. 2021.
- “Oxalis Imbricata.” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/23609/Oxalis-imbricata/Details. Accessed 27 Sept. 2021.
