Origin
Bolusiella zenkeri (Kraenzl.) Schltr. is an epiphytic orchid that originates from tropical regions of West and Central Africa.
Common Names
Common names for Bolusiella zenkeri include Zenker's Bolusiella, Double Spur Orchid, and Freckled Bolusiella.
Uses
Bolusiella zenkeri is primarily grown for ornamental purposes due to its striking appearance and unique double spur. However, it is also used in traditional African medicine to treat various ailments such as digestive problems and wounds.
General Appearance
Bolusiella zenkeri is a small to medium-sized epiphytic orchid with a creeping rhizome and cylindrical stems. The leaves are oblong-lanceolate, leathery, and approximately 4-8 cm in length. The inflorescence is a raceme that arises from the base of the pseudobulb, with 3-12 flowers per spike. The flowers are pinkish-purple with a white lip, and each possesses a unique double spur that protrudes behind the petals and sepals. The plant blooms in the spring and summer months.
Light Requirements
Bolusiella zenkeri grows best in a bright but diffuse light. Direct sunlight can scorch the leaves, but they do need sufficient light to thrive. A shaded eastern or western exposure is ideal, or filtered midday sun through a sheer curtain or louvered blinds. LED grow lights can also provide the necessary light spectrum for indoor growth.
Temperature Requirements
Bolusiella zenkeri grows best in temperatures between 15-25°C (59-77°F). It is not tolerant of extreme temperatures, so it should be kept away from drafts, air conditioning units, and heat sources. Nighttime temperatures should not drop below 13°C (55°F).
Soil Requirements
Bolusiella zenkeri prefers well-draining soils that are rich in organic matter. A soil mix containing peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite is a good option. It is important to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. The addition of a slow-release fertilizer can help promote healthy growth.
Cultivation Method for Bolusiella Zenkeri
Bolusiella zenkeri is an epiphytic orchid that is native to parts of Africa. For successful cultivation, it is important to place this orchid in a bright, warm, and humid environment. It needs partial shade where it can receive filtered sunlight. Potting this orchid in a fine bark mix is recommended to allow for good drainage and airflow in the roots.
Watering Needs for Bolusiella Zenkeri
The watering needs for this orchid should be frequent but not excessive. Avoid letting the potting mix completely dry out between watering sessions. It is important to keep the potting mix humid to allow the roots to access enough water and minerals. Misting the leaves with water in between watering sessions is recommended as well to keep the orchid's environment humid.
Fertilizing Bolusiella Zenkeri
Bolusiella zenkeri needs regular fertilization to thrive. Use a balanced orchid fertilizer that has equal parts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Fertilize this orchid once every two weeks during the growing season. Do not fertilize during the orchid's dormant period, which is usually during the winter. This dormant time is important for the orchid to rest and prepare for the growing season the following year.
Pruning Bolusiella Zenkeri
Pruning this orchid is important for its overall health and appearance. It is important to remove any dead or yellowing leaves, stems, flowers, or other parts of the plant as soon as they appear. This will help prevent disease from spreading and keep the plant looking healthy. Additionally, removing the spent flowers or old spikes will encourage the orchid to produce new blooms. When pruning, use a sterile tool to avoid introducing any bacteria or pests to the plant.
Propagation of Bolusiella zenkeri
Bolusiella zenkeri (Kraenzl.) Schltr. is a rare, epiphytic orchid species that is native to Africa. This orchid plant is delicate and requires attentive care, including proper propagation techniques. The propagation process requires patience and perseverance, but with the right steps, you can successfully propagate Bolusiella zenkeri.
Propagation Methods
The two primary methods for propagating Bolusiella zenkeri are division and seed propagation.
Division
Orchid division is a commonly used method for propagating Bolusiella zenkeri. It involves separating the plant into smaller sections that have their own roots, leaves, and stems. Before you begin, make sure the plant has several healthy growths.
To divide, remove the plant from its pot and carefully separate the roots into sections using your hands or a sterilized cutting tool. Ideally, each section should have at least three healthy pseudobulbs or growths. Remember to sterilize your cutting tools or hands, in case there are any pests or infections present on the plant.
Re-pot each divided section in a clean, well-draining potting mix. Be sure to keep the new plants out of direct sunlight and moist by watering twice a week.
Seed Propagation
Seed propagation is another method to propagate Bolusiella zenkeri. However, it is a longer process than division and requires a greater degree of accuracy.
To propagate using seeds, you will need to take a seed pod from a mature orchid plant and spread them onto a sterile germination medium. You can use a mix of agar and sugar, or coconut fiber that has been thoroughly washed and sterilized.
Keep the germination medium in a warm, humid place with low light conditions. After several weeks, tiny dots will appear on the surface. These dots correspond to the germinated seeds. Wait until they are large enough and can produce a pseudobulb before transferring them into individual pots with a potting mix that is suitable for orchids. Be attentive when transferring each seedling, making sure each has at least three growths by burying them in a well-drained potting mix.
These are two primary methods for propagating Bolusiella zenkeri. Remember that each method requires attentiveness and patience, but with perseverance, you can successfully propagate this species of orchid.
Disease management
Bolusiella zenkeri is not known to be highly susceptible to many diseases, however, it may be affected by fungal infections.
One of the most common fungal diseases of this plant is leaf spot. This disease presents itself as small, circular brown or black spots on the leaves, and can be caused by a range of fungal pathogens. To manage leaf spot, it's important to keep the plant foliage dry by avoiding overhead watering, removing any disease-infected plant materials, and applying a fungicide treatment according to the manufacturer's instructions.
Another fungal infection that may affect Bolusiella zenkeri is root rot. This condition is caused by overwatering and poor drainage, and can be managed by reducing the amount of water the plant receives, improving soil drainage, and removing any infected roots. A fungicide treatment may also be necessary in severe cases of root rot.
Pest management
Bolusiella zenkeri is not usually plagued by many pests, but some common pests that can affect this plant include spider mites, mealybugs, and scale insects.
Spider mites appear as tiny, red or brown creatures that feed on the underside of leaves and can cause yellowing, stippling, and loss of foliage. They can be managed by increasing the humidity around the plant, removing any infested leaves, and applying an insecticidal soap or miticide according to the manufacturer's instructions.
Mealybugs are small, white, woolly-looking insects that can also cause yellowing and stunting of growth. They can be managed by using a cotton swab soaked in rubbing alcohol to remove the insects from the plant, or by using insecticidal soap or neem oil spray according to the manufacturer's instructions.
Scale insects are small, round, or oval-shaped insects that can appear as bumps on leaves or stems. They can be managed by removing the insects with a cotton swab soaked in rubbing alcohol or applying an insecticidal soap or horticultural oil spray according to the manufacturer's instructions.
