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Description
Oxalis Namaquana, also known as the Namaqua Wood Sorrel or the Namaqualand Oxalis, is a perennial plant that belongs to the Oxalidaceae family. The plant is native to Namaqualand, a region in South Africa, but can be found in other regions as well. The plant has bright yellow flowers that bloom in the spring and summer months. Oxalis Namaquana is a popular plant among gardeners because of its beautiful appearance and easy care requirements.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Oxalidales |
| Family | Oxalidaceae |
| Genus | Oxalis |
Appearance
The Oxalis Namaquana plant has a unique appearance, with heart-shaped leaves that are dark green on top and purple underneath. The plant grows up to 20cm tall and can spread up to 30cm wide. The bright yellow flowers grow on long stalks and have five petals. The flowers bloom in the spring and summer months, attracting bees and other insects.
Care Guide
Oxalis Namaquana is an easy plant to care for and is perfect for beginners. Here are some tips for taking care of this beautiful plant:
- Water: Water the plant when the top inch of soil is dry. Avoid overwatering.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant every two weeks during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic. It can also tolerate sandy soil.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers partial shade but can also tolerate full sun. Avoid direct sunlight during the hottest part of the day.
- Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 8-10 and can be grown as an annual in colder regions.
Common Pests & Diseases
Oxalis Namaquana is generally pest and disease-free, but it can be susceptible to a few common pests and diseases:
- Aphids: These pests can suck the sap from the plant, causing it to wilt and die. Use insecticidal soap to control them.
- Spider mites: These pests can cause yellowing and stippling on the leaves. Use neem oil to control them.
- Rust: This disease can cause reddish-brown spots on the leaves. Remove infected leaves and use a fungicide to control the disease.
Habitat
Oxalis Namaquana is native to Namaqualand, a region in South Africa. The plant thrives in sandy soil and can be found growing in rocky outcrops, slopes, and crevices. The plant prefers a warm climate with low rainfall and can tolerate drought conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water my Oxalis Namaquana plant?
A: Water the plant when the top inch of soil is dry. Avoid overwatering.
Q: Can Oxalis Namaquana tolerate full sun?
A: Yes, the plant can tolerate full sun but prefers partial shade.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Oxalis Namaquana?
A: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 8-10 and can be grown as an annual in colder regions.
Q: What is the best soil type for Oxalis Namaquana?
A: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic. It can also tolerate sandy soil.
Related Plants
- Oxalis Triangularis
- Oxalis Deppei
- Oxalis Versicolor
- Oxalis Adenophylla
References
- “Oxalis Namaquana.” Plantz Africa, SANBI, www.plantzafrica.com/plantnop/oxalisnamaquana.htm.
- “Oxalis Namaquana.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b618.
