Contents
Description
Oxyria Sinensis, also known as Chinese mountain sorrel, is a perennial herbaceous plant that belongs to the family Polygonaceae. It is native to Asia and is commonly found in China, Japan, Korea, and Russia. The plant is known for its sour taste and is used in traditional medicine for treating diarrhea, fever, and other ailments.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Angiospermae |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Polygonaceae |
| Genus | Oxyria |
Appearance
The plant has a rosette of green leaves that grow up to 20 centimeters in diameter. The leaves are heart-shaped and have a sour taste. The plant produces small red flowers that grow in clusters. The flowers bloom in the summer and are followed by small seeds.
Care Guide
Oxyria Sinensis is a hardy plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips:
- Water: The plant prefers well-draining soil and should be watered regularly, especially during the growing season.
- Fertilization: The plant does not require fertilization, but can benefit from a light application of organic fertilizer in the spring.
- Soil: The plant prefers a rich, well-draining soil that is slightly acidic.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers partial shade to full sun.
- Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 3-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Oxyria Sinensis is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if the soil is too wet. Aphids and spider mites can also be a problem, but can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Oxyria Sinensis is commonly found in mountainous regions of Asia. It prefers cool, moist environments and can be found growing in meadows, forests, and along streams.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Oxyria Sinensis be grown indoors?
A: While it is possible to grow Oxyria Sinensis indoors, the plant prefers cool temperatures and may not thrive in a warm indoor environment.
Q: Can Oxyria Sinensis be used in cooking?
A: Yes, the leaves of Oxyria Sinensis can be used in cooking. They have a sour taste and are often used in soups and stews.
Q: Is Oxyria Sinensis an invasive species?
A: No, Oxyria Sinensis is not considered an invasive species.
Q: Can Oxyria Sinensis be propagated from cuttings?
A: Yes, Oxyria Sinensis can be propagated from stem cuttings taken in the spring.
Related Plants
- Oxyria digyna
- Oxyria sinensis var. villosa
- Polygonum bistorta
- Polygonum viviparum
References
- “Oxyria Sinensis.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed August 16, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=278851&isprofile=1&basic=Oxyria%20sinensis.
- “Oxyria Sinensis.” Plants of the World Online. Accessed August 16, 2021. http://www.plantsoftheworldonline.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:692329-1.
- “Oxyria Sinensis (Hance) Koidz.” Flora of China. Accessed August 16, 2021. http://www.efloras.org/florataxon.aspx?flora_id=2&taxon_id=200006293.
