STUDIES ON OXALIS PES‐CAPRAE L. IN AUSTRALIA

Abstract

Summary. The widespread pentaploid variety of the important weed, Oxalis pes‐caprae was harvested eight times throughout its life cycle. Dry weight and oxalate (acid‐soluble and water‐soluble analyses were made on all parts of the plant at each harvest.From the dry weight data obtained, attention is drawn to three stages during the growth of the plant — namely, the stage of old bulb exhaustion, the time when flowers and new bulbs begin to appear and the onset of senescence. Corresponding with these stages marked changes in oxalate metabolism and/or transport are observed.It is proposed that the stage of old bulb exhaustion would be the most promising at which lo attempt control of the weed by cultivation. Recherches sur Oxalis pes‐Caprae L. en Australie. I. Études quantitatives de l'acide oxalique durant le cycle vital de la variété pentaploide