Oxalis adenophylla Gillies ex Hook. & Arn.

Abstract

Oxalis adenophylla Gillies ex Hook. & Arn., is a native herb of the Subantartic Forest and Stepps of Patagonia. O. adenophylla has multiple uses and a high cultural value for many local populations of Patagonia. The leaves are used to treat fever, their roots are edible, and the plant is employed as ornamental. Despite their local cultural importance as medicine, there is little understanding of the phytochemistry and bioactivity of its property to treat fever, and the nutritional characteristics of its edible root. Similarly, its ornamental potential and growing marketing have not been investigated in the region. The ecological knowledge of local populations, that have historically used and currently use this species, seems to be essential to promote the sustainable management and conservation of O. adenophylla in Patagonia.