Oxalis corniculata CREEPING WOODSORREL (plant)

Oxalis corniculata, also known as creeping woodsorrel is a variety of creeping clover. This hardy and perennial plant belongs to the Oxalidaceae family.
Characterized by rapid growth, it measures between 5 and 10 cm in height. Originally from Southeast Asia, the Purple Oxalis can be cultivated both outdoors and in pots.

Its edible foliage is evergreen, slightly hairy, alternate, and palmate, starting green and becoming purple over time. Each leaf consists of 3 leaflets, each measuring 7 millimeters in diameter. The petiole is slightly hairy.

The edible flowers of this clover variety are golden yellow and composed of 5 petals. They have the unique characteristic of closing at night. They measure an average of 1 cm in diameter.

Creeping woodsorrel seeds are small, measuring 2 millimeters in length by 1 millimeter in width. They are slightly red and sticky; they are expelled by the explosion of the fruit capsule to a distance of several dozen centimeters, allowing for rapid dissemination.

- Uses:

In medicine: The foliage of the Purple Oxalis was formerly used to soothe insect bites by rubbing it onto the skin. It is an anti-inflammatory species that is also used to treat skin conditions.
Do not consume without medical advice from a healthcare professional.

In gourmet cooking: Both the leaves and flowers can be consumed raw in salads. They can also be soaked in sweetened water to make lemonade. They have a slightly acidic flavor reminiscent of sorrel.

Ornamental: Thanks to its purple foliage and yellow flowers, it is often used as groundcover in gardens for both its aesthetic and culinary appeal.

- Cultivation and Planting:

• Plant the edible purple oxalis in a pot of approximately 2 liters with high-quality potting soil. Ensure good drainage at the bottom using clay pebbles.
• Water generously at the base of the plant during planting.
• Place it in a shaded area for 3 to 4 days to allow it to acclimate.

- Soil type / Substrate:

It grows very well in any type of soil; however, it prefers a light, well-draining substrate rich in organic matter.

- Exposure / Light:

This small purple-leaved clover loves bright light. It is best to find a full sun location so it can grow properly. It tolerates shade but will produce fewer leaves.

- Temperature / Hardiness:

The little wild sorrel thrives when temperatures range from 15 to 25°C. Below this, it grows more slowly but does not suffer. This small herbaceous plant easily resists cold temperatures down to -10°C. Its USDA hardiness zone is 5.

- Watering / Irrigation:

Irrigation should be done at the base of the plant. It is necessary to water it twice a week in mid-summer if it is exposed to full sun. Otherwise, it does not require watering if grown in the ground. It is very hardy and highly resistant to water shortage and drought.

- Multiplication / Reproduction:

Oxalis corniculata reproduces mainly by clump division throughout the year. It can also be propagated by sowing its seeds.

- Pests / Diseases:

This variety is sometimes attacked by aphids or red spider mites in the spring. Over-watering can lead to powdery mildew on the foliage, a fungal disease that should be treated promptly.