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Description
Oxalis Montana, also known as Mountain Sorrel, is a perennial herbaceous plant that belongs to the Oxalidaceae family. This plant is native to North America and can be found in rocky or gravelly soils in mountains and foothills. Oxalis Montana produces small white or pink flowers that bloom from May to September. The leaves of this plant are trifoliate and have a slightly sour taste due to their oxalic acid content.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Oxalidales |
| Family | Oxalidaceae |
| Genus | Oxalis |
Appearance
Oxalis Montana typically grows to a height of 8-12 inches and spreads to a width of 12-18 inches. The leaves are trifoliate and have a bright green color. The flowers are small, white or pink, and have five petals. They bloom in clusters from May to September. The fruit produced by this plant is a capsule containing small seeds.
Care Guide
Oxalis Montana is a relatively easy plant to care for. Here are some tips for optimal growth:
Water
This plant prefers well-draining soil and does not tolerate standing water. Water thoroughly once a week, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.
Fertilization
Oxalis Montana does not require a lot of fertilizer. Apply a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
Soil
This plant prefers slightly acidic, well-draining soil. Amend the soil with compost to improve drainage.
Sunlight
Oxalis Montana prefers full sun to part shade. Provide at least 4 hours of direct sunlight per day.
Hardiness Zones
This plant is hardy in USDA zones 5-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Oxalis Montana is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if overwatered. Spider mites and aphids may occasionally infest this plant.
Habitat
Oxalis Montana is native to North America and can be found in rocky or gravelly soils in mountains and foothills. This plant is adapted to harsh growing conditions and can tolerate drought and cold temperatures.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Oxalis Montana an invasive species?
A: No, Oxalis Montana is not considered an invasive species. However, it can spread easily in favorable growing conditions.
Q: Can Oxalis Montana be grown indoors?
A: Yes, Oxalis Montana can be grown indoors in a bright location with well-draining soil.
Q: Can Oxalis Montana be used for culinary purposes?
A: Yes, the leaves of Oxalis Montana have a slightly sour taste and can be used in salads or as a garnish.
Q: How often should Oxalis Montana be fertilized?
A: Oxalis Montana only needs to be fertilized once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Oxalis Montana:
- Oxalis acetosella
- Oxalis articulata
- Oxalis deppei
- Oxalis pes-caprae
References
- “Oxalis montana (mountain sorrel).” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed July 26, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b582.
- “Oxalis montana.” Plant Finder. Accessed July 26, 2021. https://www.monrovia.com/plant-catalog/plants/2440/mountain-sorrel/.
- “Oxalis montana.” North Carolina State University Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox. Accessed July 26, 2021. https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/oxalis-montana/.
