Overview
Acidanthera tubulosa (Houtt.) Baker, also known as Acidanthera bicolor, Gladiolus murielae, and Abyssinian sword lily, is a perennial flowering plant that belongs to the family Iridaceae. It is native to tropical and subtropical regions of eastern Africa, including Ethiopia and Tanzania. The plant is commonly cultivated for ornamental purposes in many parts of the world.
Appearance
The plant has long, linear leaves that grow up to 60 cm in length and 1.5 cm in width. The flowers are fragrant, funnel-shaped, and white with a dark purple center. They are borne on stems that can reach up to 90 cm in height. The six tepals are arranged in two whorls of three, while the stamens and pistil are enclosed in a long, narrow, and curved tube.
Uses
Acidanthera tubulosa is primarily grown as an ornamental plant for its beautiful and fragrant flowers. The plant is commonly used in cut flower arrangements and as a garden plant, especially in areas with mild to warm climates. The flowers of Acidanthera tubulosa are also used for making perfumes, essential oils, and scented candles.
In traditional herbal medicine, the plant is believed to have medicinal properties and has been used to treat a range of ailments, including fever, headaches, and digestive disorders. However, scientific evidence supporting these claims is lacking, and the plant should not be used for medicinal purposes without consulting a healthcare professional.
Cultivation
Acidanthera tubulosa is relatively easy to grow and can be propagated from corms, which should be planted in well-draining soil in a sunny location. The plant prefers a moderate amount of water and fertilizer during the growing season but should be allowed to dry out between watering. In areas with cold winters, the corms should be lifted and stored in a cool, dry place during the dormant season to prevent them from freezing.
Light Requirements
Acidanthera tubulosa (Houtt.) Baker grows well in partial shade to full sun. It requires at least 4 to 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.
Temperature
Acidanthera tubulosa (Houtt.) Baker prefers cooler climate with temperatures ranging from 15 to 25°C. It can tolerate hotter temperatures up to 30°C. During dormancy, the plant can withstand below freezing temperatures but avoid exposing it to frost conditions.
Soil Requirements
Acidanthera tubulosa (Houtt.) Baker requires well-drained soil that is rich, fertile, and humus-rich. The pH level of the soil should be neutral or slightly alkaline, ranging from 6.0 to 7.5. It can withstand coastal soil conditions and is tolerant of salt spray.
Cultivation methods
Acidanthera tubulosa (Houtt.) Baker, commonly known as the peacock orchid, is a popular ornamental plant known for its beautiful white flowers with a purple-black spot at the center. The plant is native to South Africa but can be successfully grown in many other climates.
When cultivating Acidanthera tubulosa, it is recommended to plant the bulbs in early spring directly into the soil, about two to three inches deep and six inches apart. The soil should be well-draining with a pH of 6.0 to 7.5. The plant thrives in full sun or partial shade and requires regular watering.
Watering needs
Acidanthera tubulosa requires regular watering to ensure that the soil remains consistently moist. However, it is important to avoid waterlogging the soil as this can cause the bulbs to rot. During the growing season, which is usually from spring to early fall, the plant should be watered once or twice a week. In the winter, when the plant is dormant, watering can be reduced to once every two weeks.
Fertilization
To promote healthy growth and abundant flowering, Acidanthera tubulosa requires regular fertilization. A balanced fertilizer, such as 10-10-10, can be applied every four to six weeks during the growing season. It is also recommended to apply a layer of compost or well-rotted manure around the base of the plant once a year to enrich the soil.
Pruning
Pruning Acidanthera tubulosa is not necessary, but it can help to promote bushier growth and more flowers. Deadheading the spent flowers can also encourage the plant to continue blooming throughout the growing season. When cutting back the foliage, it is important to wait until it has turned yellow and withered, as this indicates that the plant has entered its dormant phase.
Propagation of Acidanthera tubulosa (Houtt.) Baker
Acidanthera tubulosa can be propagated through several methods, including:
1. Division
The plant can be divided during the early spring when new growth appears. The underground corms can be gently lifted and separated, ensuring that each division has several corms with healthy roots. The divisions can then be replanted in well-drained soil.
2. Seed
Seeds can also be used to propagate Acidanthera tubulosa. The seed pods should be left on the plant until they turn brown and start to split open. The seeds can then be collected and sown in a pot containing a well-draining soil mix. The seeds should be watered regularly and kept in a warm and bright location until they germinate.
3. Cormlets
Acidanthera tubulosa produces small cormlets on the parent corms. These cormlets can be removed and planted in a pot or directly in the garden. They will grow into mature plants within a couple of years.
4. Tissue culture
Tissue culture is a method of propagation that involves taking a small piece of the plant and growing it in a laboratory under controlled conditions. While this method is more commonly used for commercial production, it can also be used by home gardeners who have access to the necessary equipment.
Disease Management for Acidanthera tubulosa
Acidanthera tubulosa, commonly known as Peacock Orchid, is a plant species that is relatively resistant to diseases. However, some diseases may still affect the plant, such as:
- Gray Mold: This is a fungal disease that attacks the leaves, flowers, and stems of the plant. It causes grayish-brown patches that eventually turn into powdery mildew. To manage it, remove affected plant parts, and apply fungicide.
- Botrytis: This is a fungal disease that thrives in damp conditions. It causes the rotting of leaves, flowers, and stems, eventually killing the whole plant. To manage it, improve the plant's ventilation, and avoid overcrowding.
- Root Rot: This disease occurs due to overwatering, poor drainage, and fungal infections. It causes the plant to droop, wilt, and eventually die. To manage it, improve the plant's drainage, and avoid overwatering.
Pest Management for Acidanthera tubulosa
Acidanthera tubulosa is also relatively resistant to pests. However, some insects may still pose a threat to the plant, such as:
- Spider mites: These are tiny pests that thrive in hot and dry conditions. They suck sap from the plant and cause it to yellow and wither. To manage them, increase the plant's humidity and apply insecticidal soap, neem oil, or miticide.
- Thrips: These are small and slender insects that suck sap from the leaves and flowers of the plant. They cause the plant to become deformed and discoloured. To manage them, remove affected plant parts, and apply insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Aphids: These are small and soft-bodied insects that suck sap from the plant's leaves and flowers. They cause the plant to turn yellow and stunt its growth. To manage them, improve the plant's ventilation, and apply insecticidal soap or neem oil.
