The origin of Oxalis corniculata L.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Oxalis corniculata L. is a weed with a world-wide distribution and unknown origin. Though it belongs to a section of the genus from South America, the evidence that this species came from there is weak.

Methods

We reviewed the evidence for the origin of O. corniculata using herbarium specimens, historic literature and archaeobotanical research. We also summarized ethnobotanical literature to understand where this species is most used by humans as a medicine.

Results

Despite numerous claims that it is native to Europe there is no strong evidence that O. corniculata occurred in Europe before the 15th century. Nor is there reliable evidence that it occurred in North or South America before the 19th century. However, there is direct archaeo

SUBMITTER: Groom QJ 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC6377598 | biostudies-literature | 2019

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature