Oxalis pes-caprae
Oxalis pes-caprae
Bermuda buttercup
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Taxonomy
Family Oxalidaceae · Genus Oxalis
Common Names
Bermuda buttercupSourgrassAfrican wood-sorrelButtercup oxalis
Context
nativeRegion
South Africa (Cape Province).
usdaZones
8-10 (grown as an annual or dug up in colder regions).
companionPlants
Narcissus, Iris, Agapanthus
culturalUses
Primarily ornamental, occasionally used as a ground cover, but considered a noxious weed in many regions.
Care
Care Requirements
LightPrefers full sun to partial shade.
WateringModerate watering; allow soil to dry slightly between waterings. Drought-tolerant once established.
SoilWell-drained, sandy or loamy soil with neutral to slightly acidic pH.
FertilizerRequires little fertilization; apply a balanced fertilizer at the beginning of the growing season if desired.
HumidityAdaptable to average humidity; not particularly sensitive.
TemperatureThrives in mild climates, ideally 10-25°C (50-77°F).
Growth & Life Cycle
HabitHerbaceous perennial, often forming dense mats or clumps via bulbous rhizomes.
Mature Size15-30 cm (6-12 inches) tall and spreading broadly via bulbs.
Growth RateFast-growing, especially invasive in suitable climates.
BloomingProduces bright yellow flowers in late winter to spring.
DormancyDormant in summer; bulbs remain underground until the next season.
Propagation
MethodsBulbs, Bulbils, Seed (rare in introduced ranges)
DifficultyEasy, notably prolific from bulbs.
Best SeasonAutumn for bulb division; seeds in spring, where viable.
Maintenance & Notes
PruningRemove spent flowers and foliage to control spread.
RepottingRarely needed; may be necessary to contain spread in pots.
Pests & DiseasesGenerally pest-free but may suffer from fungal issues in overly wet soil.
ToxicityMildly toxic if ingested in large amounts due to high oxalate levels.
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