The Oxalis plum crazy plant, a cultivar of Oxalis triangularis, bears striking resemblance to its parent species. Its triangular-shaped leaves exhibit vibrant plum hues, distinguishing it from the green-leaved Oxalis triangularis and the upright Oxalis stricta. Despite these variations, genetic analysis indicates a close kinship among these Oxalis species, with Oxalis stricta serving as a unique relative. The care requirements for these plants are similar, including well-draining soil and bright, indirect light.
Oxalis Triangle Connection:
- Discuss the similarities and relatedness of Oxalis triangularis, Oxalis triangularis ‘Plum Crazy’, and Oxalis stricta.
Oxalis Triangle Connection: The Sisters with Style
Oh, hey there, plant enthusiasts! Let’s dive into the intriguing world of Oxalis and meet three sisters who share a special bond: Oxalis triangularis, Oxalis triangularis ‘Plum Crazy’, and Oxalis stricta. These leafy beauties are closely related yet each has a unique charm.
The Trinity Trio: Sisters with Shared Traits
Picture this: Three sisters, all with gorgeous green leaves that fold up like little umbrellas at night. The Oxalis triangularis sisters have a distinctive triangle-shaped leaf, giving them their name. And get this: their leaves have a slight sour taste, perfect for a lemony surprise in your salads!
Plum Crazy: The Showstopper Sister
Now, let’s talk about the “Plum Crazy” sister. She’s the party girl of the trio, with her vibrant purple-black leaves that make her stand out from the green crowd. Oxalis triangularis ‘Plum Crazy’ is a true head-turner, adding a dash of drama to any indoor space.
Original Triangularis: The Mother of All
Oxalis triangularis is the OG of the triangle clan, the one that started it all. She’s the foundation from which the other sisters evolved, sharing her lush green leaves and umbrella-like habit. Oxalis triangularis is a classic beauty that will never go out of style.
Stricta: The Independent Sister
Meet Oxalis stricta, the independent sister of the trio. She’s got a bit of a different look, with arrow-shaped leaves that aren’t quite as triangular as her sisters’. But don’t be fooled by her unique appearance, Oxalis stricta is just as special, adding a touch of diversity to the family.
Unveiling the Enchanting Oxalis Triangularis ‘Plum Crazy’: A Botanical Wonder
Among the vibrant and captivating world of Oxalis, one variety stands out as a true spectacle: Oxalis triangularis ‘Plum Crazy’. This enchanting plant boasts an alluring charm that sets it apart from its kindred.
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Distinctive Foliage: Its leaves, as its name suggests, are triangular in shape and draped in a rich plum-purple hue. The undersides of these leaflets reveal a vibrant reddish-maroon tint, adding an extra layer of visual intrigue.
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Petite Blooms: In the heart of summer, ‘Plum Crazy’ bursts forth into bloom, adorned with delicate white flowers that resemble tiny stars. These blossoms dance gracefully along slender stalks, adding a touch of elegance to its lush foliage.
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Compact Habit: Unlike its towering counterparts, ‘Plum Crazy’ maintains a petite and manageable size, making it ideal for container gardening or small spaces. Its compact habit allows it to thrive in windowsills, on desks, or any other cozy nook it finds itself in.
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Easy-Going Nature: True to its botanical lineage, ‘Plum Crazy’ is an undemanding plant. It readily adapts to various lighting conditions, thriving in both bright, indirect light and shady spots. Its resilient nature makes it an excellent choice for gardening novices seeking a low-maintenance beauty.
Oxalis Triangularis: The Foundation of Beauty and Variety
In the realm of vibrant houseplants, the Oxalis genus shines brightly, and among its captivating members, Oxalis triangularis stands as the founding father. This extraordinary species has played a pivotal role in the development of its enchanting relatives, Oxalis triangularis ‘Plum Crazy’ and Oxalis stricta.
Oxalis triangularis, hailing from Brazil’s lush rainforests, exhibits an unforgettable beauty that has captured the hearts of plant enthusiasts worldwide. Its striking leaves, adorned with triangular leaflets that fold up at night like shy little butterflies, come in various shades of emerald green, burgundy, and deep purple. With such exquisite foliage, it’s no wonder that Oxalis triangularis has become a beloved addition to indoor gardens.
As the parent species, Oxalis triangularis has passed on its genetic legacy to its extraordinary descendants. Oxalis triangularis ‘Plum Crazy’ boasts plum-colored leaves that add a vibrant splash of color to any room, while Oxalis stricta, with its upright posture and smaller leaflets, brings a touch of elegance to the Oxalis family.
The close kinship between these three Oxalis varieties is evident in their shared characteristics, such as their love of bright, indirect light, well-drained soil, and regular watering. However, each variety also possesses unique traits that make it stand out.
Understanding the closeness score can help gardeners appreciate the genetic relatedness among these captivating plants. This score, calculated by comparing the DNA of different varieties, provides a numerical measure of their similarity. The higher the closeness score, the more closely related the varieties are.
By exploring the history and connections within the Oxalis family, we gain a deeper appreciation for the diversity and beauty that exists within this fascinating genus. Whether you choose the classic Oxalis triangularis, the vibrant Oxalis triangularis ‘Plum Crazy’, or the elegant Oxalis stricta, you can rest assured that you’re bringing a touch of nature’s artistry into your home.
Oxalis Stricta: A Distinctive Relative
Oxalis stricta, also known as upright wood sorrel, is a unique member of the Oxalis family. Unlike its close cousins, Oxalis triangularis and Oxalis triangularis ‘Plum Crazy,’ Oxalis stricta stands out with its distinctive upright growth habit and small, clover-like leaves.
While Oxalis triangularis and its variegated counterpart, ‘Plum Crazy,’ feature large, triangular leaves, Oxalis stricta lacks the iconic butterfly-shaped blooms that make these varieties so popular. Instead, it produces tiny, yellow flowers that blend seamlessly with its foliage.
Another key difference is Oxalis stricta’s tolerance of various soil types and light conditions. This makes it a versatile choice for gardeners who may not have ideal growing conditions for other Oxalis species. Its compact size also makes it suitable for containers or small spaces.
Despite its differences, Oxalis stricta shares a close genetic relationship with its triangular relatives. Its foliage, though smaller and clover-like in appearance, still displays the same **trifoliate structure common to the Oxalis family.**
So, if you’re looking for an unconventional yet equally charming member of the Oxalis clan, Oxalis stricta is a distinct and delightful choice. With its upright stature, tiny yellow blooms, and adaptability to diverse environments, it’s bound to add a touch of unique character to your garden or home.
Close Kinship and Relatedness: A Genetic Adventure
Hey there, plant enthusiasts! Let’s dive into the world of Oxalis and unwrap the secrets of their genetic closeness. We’re not talking about BFFs or family reunions, but the science behind how similar they are.
Scientists have a clever tool called a closeness score. It’s like a genetic fingerprint that measures how much two plants share the same DNA. The higher the score, the cozier the relationship.
Imagine a group of Oxalis varieties sitting around a campfire, sharing stories and roasting marshmallows. Among them are Oxalis triangularis, the patriarch of the family, and his two cool cousins, Oxalis triangularis ‘Plum Crazy’ and Oxalis stricta.
Using the closeness score, we can see that Oxalis triangularis and Oxalis triangularis ‘Plum Crazy’ are practically genetic twins, with a closeness score of nearly 100%. That means they have almost identical DNA.
On the other hand, Oxalis stricta is a bit of a distant cousin, with a closeness score of around 70%. It shares some genes with Oxalis triangularis but has its own unique traits that make it stand out from the crowd.
So, there you have it! The closeness score helps us understand how closely related different Oxalis varieties are, revealing the genetic bonds that connect them.
Care and Cultivation: A Triangular Affair
These oxalis varieties may share a close genetic bond, but they each have their own unique quirks and preferences when it comes to care. Let’s dive into their world and learn how to keep these triangular beauties thriving.
Light:
They all love a spot in the spotlight, but not too intense, please! Bright, indirect light is their sweet spot. Think dappled sunlight under a leafy canopy or a spot near a bright window that doesn’t get direct afternoon sun.
Water:
Think of them as thirsty travelers who need a steady supply of water. Water regularly, especially during the growing season. But don’t drown them! Let the soil dry out slightly between waterings.
Soil:
Picture a cozy, well-drained home for their roots. Use a well-draining potting mix, like a standard cactus mix. You can also add some perlite or pumice to improve drainage.
Fertilizer:
Don’t overfeed these triangular treasures. A monthly dose of a balanced liquid fertilizer during the growing season is enough to keep them happy.
Temperature:
They’re not fans of extreme temperatures. Keep them away from drafts and protect them from freezing. Average room temperatures between 60-75°F (15-24°C) are ideal.
Other Tips:
- Deadhead spent blooms: It encourages new growth and keeps your plants looking their best.
- Repot every 2-3 years: As they grow, they’ll need a larger home.
- Propagate by division: It’s an easy way to share the oxalis love! Just divide the bulbs in spring or fall.
- Watch for pests: Mealybugs and spider mites can crash this triangular party. Treat them promptly with an appropriate pesticide.