Plant Description
Bulbophyllum injoloense De Wild. subsp. pseudoxypterum (J.J.Verm.) J.J.Verm. is a flowering orchid species native to Cameroon and Nigeria, found growing on trees and rocks in moist forests at an altitude of 700-1000m. The plant has an epiphytic growth habit and has a pseudobulb, which is a storage organ for water and nutrients.
Common Names
This orchid species is commonly referred to as the Flying Duck Orchid, due to its unique flower shape and resemblance to a duck in flight. Other common names include Bulbophyllum orchid, Pseudoxypterum orchid, and Cameroon orchid.
Uses
Bulbophyllum injoloense De Wild. subsp. pseudoxypterum (J.J.Verm.) J.J.Verm. is primarily grown as an ornamental plant for its attractive flowers, which are notable for their unique shape and coloration. The plant is commonly cultivated by orchid enthusiasts and collectors due to its rarity and novelty value.
General Appearance
The Flying Duck Orchid produces small pseudobulbs on its creeping rhizomes. Each leafless pseudobulb bears a single flower on a long, slender pedicel. The flower is typically a yellowish-green to reddish-brown color, with speckles and stripes of purple or maroon. The flower has a distinct concave shape, resembling the outstretched wings and head of a duck in flight. The lip of the flower is wide and flat, with fringed edges. The overall appearance of the plant is unique and eye-catching, making it a popular choice for collectors and enthusiasts.
Light Requirements
Bulbophyllum injoloense De Wild. subsp. pseudoxypterum (J.J.Verm.) J.J.Verm. prefers a light intensity of 2,000–5,000 foot-candles, which is considered medium to bright light. Direct sunlight should be avoided as it can scorch the leaves. A light screen or shade cloth may be necessary to provide the required light intensity without direct exposure to sunlight.
Temperature Requirements
The ideal temperature range for Bulbophyllum injoloense De Wild. subsp. pseudoxypterum (J.J.Verm.) J.J.Verm. is between 60-85°F (16-30°C), with a nighttime drop of 5-10°F (2-5°C). It is important to provide a temperature differential between day and night to promote healthy growth and blooming. Avoid exposing the plant to temperatures below 50°F (10°C), which can cause damage to the leaves and roots.
Soil Requirements
Bulbophyllum injoloense De Wild. subsp. pseudoxypterum (J.J.Verm.) J.J.Verm. prefers a well-draining soil mix with a slightly acidic pH between 5.5-6.5. The mix should be capable of holding moisture while allowing adequate air circulation around the roots. An orchid mix consisting of bark, perlite, and sphagnum moss is commonly used. The plant should be potted in a container that allows for drainage, and the roots should not sit in standing water, as this can cause root rot.
Cultivation Methods for Bulbophyllum injoloense De Wild. subsp. pseudoxypterum (J.J.Verm.) J.J.Verm.
To cultivate Bulbophyllum injoloense De Wild. subsp. pseudoxypterum (J.J.Verm.) J.J.Verm., you need a growing medium that is well-draining and aerated. A mix of bark, sphagnum moss, and perlite in equal parts is suitable.
It’s recommended to grow them in terracotta pots with good drainage to prevent waterlogging. This species prefers high humidity levels of at least 70% and bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sunlight as it can scorch the leaves.
Watering Needs for Bulbophyllum injoloense De Wild. subsp. pseudoxypterum (J.J.Verm.) J.J.Verm.
Bulbophyllum injoloense De Wild. subsp. pseudoxypterum (J.J.Verm.) J.J.Verm. requires consistent moisture to thrive, but the growing medium should not be waterlogged. Water the plant when the top inch of the growing medium is dry, and avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot.
During the growing season, which is usually from spring to fall, increase watering frequency. Reduce watering during the dormancy period, which is usually from late fall to winter.
Fertilization for Bulbophyllum injoloense De Wild. subsp. pseudoxypterum (J.J.Verm.) J.J.Verm.
Bulbophyllum injoloense De Wild. subsp. pseudoxypterum (J.J.Verm.) J.J.Verm. requires fertilization to sustain healthy growth and blooming. Fertilize the plant weekly during the active growing season with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half-strength. Reduce fertilization or stop completely during the dormancy period.
Pruning for Bulbophyllum injoloense De Wild. subsp. pseudoxypterum (J.J.Verm.) J.J.Verm.
Pruning Bulbophyllum injoloense De Wild. subsp. pseudoxypterum (J.J.Verm.) J.J.Verm. is not usually necessary as they only grow to a maximum height of about 10 cm. However, pruning can be done to remove any dead, yellowing, or damaged leaves or pseudobulbs. Sterilize pruning equipment before use to prevent the spread of disease.
Propagation of Bulbophyllum injoloense De Wild. subsp. pseudoxypterum (J.J.Verm.) J.J.Verm.
Bulbophyllum injoloense De Wild. subsp. pseudoxypterum (J.J.Verm.) J.J.Verm. can be propagated through various methods. Two methods of propagation are:
Division
Division is one method of propagating Bulbophyllum injoloense De Wild. subsp. pseudoxypterum (J.J.Verm.) J.J.Verm. This method should be done during the plant's active growth period, which typically takes place in the spring or fall. To propagate through division, the plant should be carefully removed from its pot. The roots should be rinsed to separate them before dividing the plant into smaller sections. Each section should have at least one pseudobulb with several roots attached. The divided sections can then be potted in a new pot with fresh media.
Keiki/Pseudobulb Offsets
Keiki, a Hawaiian word meaning "baby," is a term that refers to new plantlets that grow on the pseudobulbs of orchids. Pseudobulb offsets are new growths that emerge from the base of older pseudobulbs. Both keiki and pseudobulb offsets can be propagated to produce new plants. To propagate through keiki or pseudobulb offsets, a sterile cutting tool should be used to remove the new growth. The cutting should be potted in a new pot with fresh media. However, it is recommended to keep the new growth attached to the parent plant until it develops roots and a few leaves. This helps to ensure that the new plant will have a better chance of surviving on its own.
Disease and Pest Management for Bulbophyllum injoloense De Wild. subsp. pseudoxypterum (J.J.Verm.) J.J.Verm. Plant
As with any plant species, Bulbophyllum injoloense De Wild. subsp. pseudoxypterum (J.J.Verm.) J.J.Verm. is not immune to diseases and pests. Here, we will discuss the common diseases and pests that might affect the plant, and suggest ways to manage them.
Common Diseases
Common diseases that might affect Bulbophyllum injoloense De Wild. subsp. pseudoxypterum (J.J.Verm.) J.J.Verm. include:
- Bacterial Blight: This disease is caused by the bacterium Xanthomonas campestris. Symptoms include water-soaked spots on leaves and pseudobulbs, which eventually turn yellow and necrotic. The best way to manage this disease is to remove infected plant parts, avoid overhead watering, and apply copper-based fungicides.
- Anthracnose: This fungal disease is caused by Colletotrichum species. Symptoms include circular or irregular spots that are brown or black in color. Severe infections can cause leaves to wilt and drop. Managing anthracnose involves removing infected plant parts, reducing humidity, and applying fungicides.
- Root Rot: Root rot can be caused by various pathogens, including bacteria and fungi. Symptoms include yellowing leaves, wilting, and a foul odor. To manage root rot, it is important to avoid overwatering and provide good drainage. Infected plants should be removed, and the remaining plants and their growing media should be treated with fungicides.
Common Pests
Common pests that might affect Bulbophyllum injoloense De Wild. subsp. pseudoxypterum (J.J.Verm.) J.J.Verm. include:
- Spider Mites: These tiny arachnids can infest plants and cause stippling and yellowing of leaves. To manage spider mites, use insecticidal soap or neem oil, and maintain a high level of humidity around the plant.
- Mealybugs: These insects look like small, white cottony masses on the plant, and feed on its sap. To manage mealybugs, use insecticidal soap or neem oil, and remove heavily infested plant parts.
- Scale Insects: Scale insects attach themselves to plants and suck sap. They can be difficult to control, but frequent inspection and the use of insecticides can help to manage them.
It is important to regularly monitor Bulbophyllum injoloense De Wild. subsp. pseudoxypterum (J.J.Verm.) J.J.Verm. for signs of disease and pest infestation. With proper management, this stunning plant can thrive and continue to provide enjoyment to its caretakers.
