Origin and Common Names
Bulbophyllum sennii Chiov. is a species of orchid native to Ethiopia and Eritrea. It is commonly known as Senna's Bulbophyllum or Sen's Bulbophyllum after the Italian botanist and explorer, Odoardo Beccari's assistant, Senna.
General Appearance
Bulbophyllum sennii Chiov. is a small epiphytic orchid that grows up to 25 centimeters in height. It has an erect stem that bears a single, oblong to elliptic leaf measuring up to 15 centimeters long and 3.5 centimeters wide. The leaf is stiff and leathery, with a glossy green color. The plant has short pseudobulbs that are cylindrical in shape and measure around 8 centimeters long. The pseudobulbs possess several branches and each branch supports a single flower.
Uses
Bulbophyllum sennii Chiov. is primarily a decorative plant, valued for its small but attractive flowers. It is often grown as an ornamental plant in gardens and greenhouses. The plant has also been used for medicinal purposes by the local inhabitants of Ethiopia and Eritrea. It is believed to have healing properties and is used to treat ailments such as fever, stomach upset, and headache.
Lighting Requirements
Bulbophyllum sennii Chiov. thrives well in filtered light conditions as direct sunlight may harm the plant. A shaded spot beneath a tree or a sheer curtain is ideal for the plant as it requires minimal light to grow.
Temperature Requirements
Bulbophyllum sennii Chiov. is a tropical plant that prefers a warm climate with temperatures ranging between 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F). This orchid requires a high to moderate humidity level of about 60-80%, which can be achieved through regular misting or placement of a humidity tray near the plant.
Soil Requirements
Bulbophyllum sennii Chiov. does not require a specific type of soil but prefers a well-draining medium. The plant can be grown in a combination of sphagnum moss, orchid bark, and perlite. It is important to note that the roots of this plant should not remain wet for long periods as it may lead to root rot.
Watering and Fertilizing Requirements
The plant should be watered when the soil dries out, usually once a week. It is important to avoid overwatering as this may lead to root rot. Bulbophyllum sennii Chiov. should be fertilized with a balanced fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season (spring and summer). No fertilizer is required in the winter when the plant is dormant.
Cultivation
Bulbophyllum sennii Chiov. is an epiphytic orchid that can be grown on a variety of surfaces such as slabs of tree fern, cork, or bark. It prefers bright but filtered light and a warm, humid environment.
When choosing a planting medium, consider using a mix of bark and sphagnum moss. This will provide excellent drainage and aeration. Additionally, ensure that drainage holes are present at the bottom of the container.
It is best to repot Bulbophyllum sennii Chiov. every two years in fresh media when its roots have grown out of the container.
Watering Needs
Bulbophyllum sennii Chiov. has moderate water needs that can be met by watering the orchid once per week. However, ensure that the planting medium has thoroughly drained before watering again.
During the active growing season, which is typically during the warm, moist summer months, the orchid will require more frequent watering. Conversely, during the cooler, drier winter months, it may require less frequent watering.
Fertilization
Feed Bulbophyllum sennii Chiov. with a balanced 20-20-20 liquid fertilizer every other watering. Alternatively, use a slow-release fertilizer every three to four months.
It is best to use a fertilizer that is specifically designed for orchids. Be sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions regarding application rates and frequency.
Pruning
Pruning is essential for the maintenance of the plant's health and appearance. Remove any yellow or brown leaves as soon as they appear. This helps to prevent the spread of disease.
Additionally, Bulbophyllum sennii Chiov. produces keikis, or baby plants, that can be removed from the parent plant once they have several well-established roots. These keikis can then be potted in their own containers.
Propagation of Bulbophyllum sennii Chiov.
Bulbophyllum sennii Chiov. is a terrestrial orchid species that is native to East Africa. It is a popular plant among orchid enthusiasts, known for its uniquely shaped flowers and interesting growth habit. Propagating Bulbophyllum sennii Chiov. can be done using different methods, including division and seed propagation.
Propagation by division
Propagation of Bulbophyllum sennii Chiov. by division involves separating mature plants into smaller sections and repotting them in suitable growing media. This is an effective method of propagation for plants that have outgrown their containers or for those showing signs of stunted growth due to overcrowding.
To propagate Bulbophyllum sennii Chiov. by division, carefully remove the plant from its container and gently separate the rhizomes or bulbs using a sterile cutting tool. Ensure that each section has at least two or three healthy growth points and repot in a well-draining growing medium.
Propagation by seed
Propagation of Bulbophyllum sennii Chiov. by seed requires patience, as it can take several years for the plants to mature and produce flowers. The seeds are generally collected from mature plants and sown in sterile, well-drained growing media.
To propagate Bulbophyllum sennii Chiov. by seed, collect the seeds when the seedpods ripen and turn brown in color. Carefully remove the seeds from the pods and sow them in pots or trays filled with moist growing media. Ensure that the seeds are not covered too deeply, as they require light for germination.
Propagation of Bulbophyllum sennii Chiov. can be a rewarding experience for orchid enthusiasts. However, it is important to follow the correct procedures for each method of propagation to ensure the success of the process.
Disease and Pest Management for Bulbophyllum sennii Chiov.
Bulbophyllum sennii Chiov. is a beautiful orchid species that is highly susceptible to a range of plant diseases and pests. To ensure the plant thrives and remains healthy, it is essential to take measures to prevent, identify, and manage potential issues in a timely and effective manner.
Common Diseases
Some common diseases that might affect Bulbophyllum sennii Chiov. include:
- Fungal infections: Due to the plant's preference for warm and humid conditions, it is susceptible to fungal diseases like root rot, leaf spot, and canker. Overwatering, poor drainage, and high humidity are the main causes of these diseases. To prevent fungal infections, avoid overwatering, ensure proper drainage, and maintain moderate humidity levels.
- Bacterial infections: Bacterial infections like bacterial leaf spot and soft rot can also affect Bulbophyllum sennii Chiov. These infections are typically caused by poor hygiene, overcrowding, and wounds. To prevent bacterial infections, ensure proper hygiene when handling the plant and maintain proper spacing between plants. If infected, pruning and removing affected plant parts can help manage the issue.
Common Pests
Bulbophyllum sennii Chiov. is also highly susceptible to a range of common pests like:
- Spider mites: Spider mites feed on the plant's sap, causing yellowing and discoloration of leaves. Regularly inspecting the plant and maintaining humidity levels can help prevent and manage spider mite infestations. Insecticidal soap or neem oil can also effectively control the pests.
- Scale insects: Scale insects feed on the plant's sap, causing stunted growth and yellowing of leaves. In severe infestations, they can even kill the plant. Controlling scale insects involves manually removing them from the plant or using insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Mealybugs: Mealybugs suck the plant's sap and create a cotton-like substance on the plant's leaves. To manage a mealybug infestation, removing affected parts, using insecticidal soap or rubbing alcohol can be effective.
Regularly inspecting Bulbophyllum sennii Chiov. for signs of disease and pests, practicing good hygiene and providing ideal growing conditions can help keep the plant healthy and thrive.
