Overview
Calypso bulbosa (L.) Oakes var. occidentalis (Holz.) Boivin, commonly known as fairy-slipper orchid or calypso orchid, is a small, perennial, and herbaceous plant that is native to North America. This particular variety is found in the western regions of North America, including parts of Canada and the United States.
Appearance
The plant grows up to 15 cm tall and has a single leaf that grows on the ground. The flower of Calypso bulbosa (L.) Oakes var. occidentalis (Holz.) Boivin is the most distinctive feature of the plant. It has a pink, magenta, or purple color with a yellow or white lip (in the center) that resembles a slipper. The flower is about 4 cm wide and appears on a thin stem above the leaf.
Uses
Calypso bulbosa (L.) Oakes var. occidentalis (Holz.) Boivin has no significant commercial or medicinal uses. However, the plant is a popular subject in botanical gardens or found in the wild, where it is often admired for its beauty. The flowers of the plant are also known to attract butterflies and other insects, making it an excellent addition to any wildlife garden.
The plant is sometimes used in traditional Native American medicine, but there is no reliable scientific evidence to support its effectiveness for any medicinal purpose.
Cultivation
Calypso bulbosa (L.) Oakes var. occidentalis (Holz.) Boivin prefers moist and well-draining soil and can grow in locations with partial or full shade. The plant is often propagated through seed germination and is best grown in a wooded area with a moist and shady environment.
The plant should be protected from direct sunlight and should not be overwatered as it can lead to root rot. Fertilizers should be avoided, as they can adversely affect the growth of the plant.
Light Requirements
Calypso bulbosa var. occidentalis prefers to grow in areas that receive dappled sunlight rather than full sun exposure. Shaded forest undergrowth is an ideal location for this plant to thrive. It requires a minimum of 50% shade to avoid burning its foliage. Direct sunlight exposure for prolonged periods can lead to stress and stunted growth.
Temperature Requirements
This plant prefers cold climates and can survive in temperatures as low as -30 degrees Celsius. In its natural habitat, it can be found in alpine meadows and boreal forests where temperatures are cool. During the growing season, the optimum temperature range is between 15 and 20 degrees Celsius. Extreme heat and dryness can cause wilting of the foliage.
Soil Requirements
The plant prefers moist soil that is rich in organic matter. However, it does not tolerate wet or waterlogged soil. A well-draining, slightly acidic soil with a pH between 5.5 and 6.5 is ideal. In its natural habitat, it is usually found growing in soil composed of decomposed plant material, such as leaf litter or humus. The addition of organic matter, such as compost or peat moss, to the soil can help promote growth and flowering.
Cultivation of Calypso bulbosa (L.) Oakes var. occidentalis (Holz.) Boivin
Calypso bulbosa (L.) Oakes var. occidentalis (Holz.) Boivin is a rare and delicate plant that requires specific conditions to thrive. When cultivating this plant, it is important to replicate its natural habitat to ensure its health and growth.
Calypso bulbosa (L.) Oakes var. occidentalis (Holz.) Boivin prefers shady areas with well-draining, moist soil. The soil should be rich in organic matter and slightly acidic, with a pH between 5.0 and 6.5. These plants can tolerate cold temperatures and require a cool, moist environment.
When planting Calypso bulbosa (L.) Oakes var. occidentalis (Holz.) Boivin, it is important to plant the bulbs deeply, with about two inches of soil covering them. This helps protect the bulbs from the cold and keeps them moist.
Watering Needs for Calypso bulbosa (L.) Oakes var. occidentalis (Holz.) Boivin
Calypso bulbosa (L.) Oakes var. occidentalis (Holz.) Boivin requires regular watering to maintain its moist soil conditions. The soil should never be allowed to dry out completely, but it should not be excessively wet either.
Water the plants deeply once a week, or more often in hot, dry weather. Avoid getting water on the plant's foliage and flowers as this can cause disease and damage the delicate plant.
Fertilization of Calypso bulbosa (L.) Oakes var. occidentalis (Holz.) Boivin
Calypso bulbosa (L.) Oakes var. occidentalis (Holz.) Boivin does not require regular fertilization. The plant obtains its nutrients from the soil, and too much fertilizer can harm the plant. If the soil is poor, you can add a slow-release, balanced fertilizer in the spring.
Pruning Calypso bulbosa (L.) Oakes var. occidentalis (Holz.) Boivin
Calypso bulbosa (L.) Oakes var. occidentalis (Holz.) Boivin does not require pruning, except to remove any dead or damaged leaves or flowers. Do this carefully to avoid damaging the plant's delicate bulbs.
It is essential to avoid picking or disturbing the plant in the wild, as it can severely impact the plant's population. If you want to enjoy the plant's beauty, grow them from bulbs purchased from a reputable grower.
Propagation of Calypso bulbosa var. occidentalis
The Calypso bulbosa var. occidentalis is a terrestrial orchid species that typically grows in moist and shaded areas, often in forests. Its charming beauty and unique features have made it a favorite of many gardeners. It can be propagated through different methods based on the availability of resources, including seeds, corms, and rhizomes.
Seeds
This orchid species produces tiny, dust-like seeds that require careful handling and attention to successfully germinate. The seeds can be collected after the blooming period, but they should be sown almost immediately after collection for better results. They can be propagated through a technique called symbiotic seed germination, where the seeds are grown in a nutrient-rich agar medium with specific fungi. This method mimics the natural environment of the orchid and increases its chances of survival.
Corms
Corms are the underground storage organs of the Calypso bulbosa var. occidentalis orchid that function as a source of food and energy. Corms can be divided into small pieces, each with an active bud or growth site, during the dormant season. These pieces can be planted in suitable soil or substrate and provided with the necessary growing conditions, such as humidity, shade, and watering. The new plants will grow from the separated corms and develop into full-fledged orchids over time.
Rhizomes
Rhizomes are the horizontal underground stems of the Calypso bulbosa var. occidentalis that help the plant spread and grow. Propagation by rhizome is possible by cutting the rhizomes into small sections and planting them in the soil or substrate. The rhizomes should be cut to include an active growth point or bud to ensure the successful growth of a new plant. The new plant will form roots and foliage as it develops.
Disease Management
Calypso bulbosa is generally resilient to diseases, but it might fall prey to common plant pathogens in specific scenarios. One of the significant causes of plant diseases is the presence of excess moisture around the roots, usually leading to rot. To maintain dry soil conditions, use well-draining soil and avoid overwatering the plant. Also, while watering, try not to splash water on the foliage, as it can lead to the spread of fungal diseases.
Another common Calypso bulbosa disease is Leaf Spot, characterized by brownish lesions or spots forming on the foliage. The spots may develop into larger patches, eventually leading to leaf yellowing and wilting. You can manage the disease by removing any infected plant parts and treating it with a fungicide containing copper sulfate or mancozeb.
Pest Management
Calypso bulbosa contains toxic compounds that make it largely unappealing to most pests. However, it is still possible for pests to infect the plant in certain conditions.
One of the pests that can attack Calypso bulbosa is aphids. The insects suck the sap from the plant, causing yellowed and wilted foliage. To manage aphids, wash the plant with a stream of water or use insecticides containing neem oil or pyrethrum.
The other pest that can attack Calypso bulbosa is slugs. The mollusks feed on the plant, leaving a trail of slime and holes in the foliage. To manage slugs, sprinkle diatomaceous earth around the base of the plant or use slug bait containing iron phosphate.
