Origin of Bulbophyllum cercoglossum Summerh.
Bulbophyllum cercoglossum Summerh. is a species of epiphytic orchid that is native to Tanzania. Specifically, it is found in the eastern Usambara Mountains, which are part of the Eastern Arc Mountains in northeast Tanzania.
Common Names of Bulbophyllum cercoglossum Summerh.
Bulbophyllum cercoglossum Summerh. is not well known outside of orchid collector circles, so it does not have a common name in English. However, it may be referred to by its scientific name or one of its common names in Swahili, which include "Mufua Mwekundu" and "Mapigamataka".
Uses of Bulbophyllum cercoglossum Summerh.
Bulbophyllum cercoglossum Summerh. is primarily grown as an ornamental plant for its unusual and attractive flowers. It is a popular orchid among collectors due to its unique appearance and relative rarity. It is not known to have any medicinal or culinary uses.
General Appearance of Bulbophyllum cercoglossum Summerh.
Bulbophyllum cercoglossum Summerh. is a small epiphytic orchid that typically grows to around 6 inches (15 cm) in height. It has thin and elongated green leaves that can grow up to 8 inches (20 cm) long. The flowers of this orchid are the main attraction, with a unique and striking appearance. Each flower has a reddish-brown lip that is held at a 90-degree angle to the rest of the flower. The lip is ruffled and has a central groove that gives it the appearance of a miniature slipper. The flowers are arranged in clusters and emit a sweet, fruity fragrance.
Light Requirements
Bulbophyllum cercoglossum Summerh. thrives well in filtered or diffused light found under the canopy of a forest, where it grows naturally. It can tolerate up to 5000 foot candles of light, but direct sun exposure may lead to scorching of the leaves and can affect the plant’s overall health.
Temperature Requirements
It is an epiphytic species native to the warm and humid forests of Papua New Guinea and Indonesia where the temperature ranges between 18°C to 30°C (65°F to 85°F). It can endure temperatures as high as 35°C and as low as 13°C for brief periods but extended exposure to extreme temperatures can cause damage to the plant.
Soil Requirements
Bulbophyllum cercoglossum Summerh. does not thrive in soil but prefer to grow on the bark of trees or in small crevices. Therefore, it requires a well-draining medium that retains moisture but allows air circulation. A suitable medium can be made from bark chips, sphagnum moss, and perlite or charcoal. It can be kept moderately moist, but it should not be overwatered as it can lead to root rot or fungal infections.
Cultivation Methods
Bulbophyllum cercoglossum Summerh. is a relatively easy plant to grow and care for. It can be grown in pots or mounted on a bark slab. The ideal substrate for this plant is a mixture of bark, sphagnum moss, and perlite.
Ensure that the pot or basket has good drainage, as these plants do not tolerate sitting in water. If you choose to mount the plant, attach it to a piece of bark or tree fern using wire or fishing line. This plant is native to tropical regions, so it prefers high humidity and warm temperatures.
Watering Needs
Bulbophyllum cercoglossum Summerh. likes to be consistently moist but not waterlogged. Watering once or twice a week should be sufficient, but always check the substrate to ensure it is not overly dry or wet. When watering, it is best to use a weak, balanced fertilizer solution in addition to clean water.
In contrast, the plant should be kept drier during its dormancy period during winter.
Fertilization
Bulbophyllum cercoglossum Summerh. requires regular feeding to sustain its growth and flowering. Use a weak, balanced fertilizer solution every two weeks or organic fertilizers. Avoid over-fertilization of this plant as it can cause fertilizer burn and damage the roots.
Pruning
Pruning is not necessary unless you want to remove dead or damaged leaves or stems. Cut them back as close to the base as possible and disinfect your pruning shears to prevent the spread of diseases.
Overall, Bulbophyllum cercoglossum Summerh. is a low-maintenance orchid that can flourish with proper care and attention.
Propagation of Bulbophyllum cercoglossum Summerh.
Bulbophyllum cercoglossum Summerh. can be propagated through various methods such as division, back bulbs, and seed germination.
Division
Division involves separating the parent plant into smaller sections, each with its own growth point. This method is most effective after the plant has finished flowering, and new growth has emerged. Care should be taken not to damage the parent plant or the root system in the process. The cut sections can be potted separately in the appropriate growing medium.
Back bulbs
Bulbophyllum cercoglossum Summerh. produces small pseudobulbs that can be removed from the parent plant once they have developed their own roots and new growth. The new plantlets can be potted in the appropriate growing medium. This method is suitable for mature plants that have produced a number of pseudobulbs.
Seed germination
Seeds of Bulbophyllum cercoglossum Summerh. can be propagated through a sterile medium, such as agar or sphagnum moss. Seeds should be collected when the seed pods have dried and split open, or bought from a reputable supplier. The seeds must be cleaned and sterilized before being placed in the growing medium. The medium should be kept moist and warm, and the seeds should germinate within a few weeks. Once the seedlings have developed a few leaves, they can be transferred to pots with the appropriate growing medium.
Disease and Pest Management for Bulbophyllum cercoglossum Summerh.
Bulbophyllum cercoglossum Summerh. is a beautiful and delicate orchid species that requires proper care to thrive. The plant is susceptible to various pests and diseases that can have detrimental effects on its growth and development. Therefore, it is crucial to take preventative measures to keep the orchid healthy and free from infestations.
Common Diseases
Bulbophyllum cercoglossum Summerh. is susceptible to various fungal and bacterial diseases such as leaf spot, crown rot, and Fusarium wilt. These diseases can cause the leaves to wither, yellow, and fall off. To prevent such diseases, keep the plant healthy, avoid overwatering, and maintain proper ventilation. Also, avoid using contaminated soil and always maintain good hygiene by sterilizing gardening tools.
Pest Management
Bulbophyllum cercoglossum Summerh. is susceptible to pest infestations such as spider mites, mealybugs, and aphids. These pests feed on the plant's sap, causing weak growth, distorted leaves, and yellowing. To prevent pest infestations, keep the plant healthy and stress-free by watering appropriately and maintaining the right humidity. Inspect the plant regularly and isolate any infected ones immediately to prevent the spread of pests. For natural solutions, use neem oil, insecticidal soap, or alcohol to remove pests.
In conclusion, proper care and attention are vital for keeping Bulbophyllum cercoglossum Summerh. healthy and free from diseases and pests. With the right care, this orchid species can flourish and live for several years.
