Overview of Calyptrochilum preussii Kraenzl.
Calyptrochilum preussii Kraenzl. is a species of orchid native to tropical Africa. The plant belongs to the Orchidaceae family, which is one of the largest and most diverse families of flowering plants. It is commonly known by the name Preuss's Calyptrochilum in honor of Georg August Schweinfurth who discovered this species in 1869 and named it after his fellow explorer Hermann Preuss.
General appearance
The Calyptrochilum preussii Kraenzl. plant is a small-sized epiphytic orchid that grows up to 15 cm in height. The leaves are thick, fleshy, and arranged in a semicircle at the base of the stem. The flowers of the plant are peculiar, with a bright yellow and crimson-colored lip. The sepals and petals are twisted and arranged in a tight cluster, while the lip is shaped like a saddle. The flower spike is cylindrical, and the flowers usually bloom in succession, each flower lasting just a few days.
Origin and Habitat
The Calyptrochilum preussii Kraenzl. plant is native to tropical Africa and can be found growing in Cameroon, Nigeria, and Congo-Kinshasa. It prefers to grow in humid forests, on the trunks of trees, and on rocks. It grows at an altitude of 1000-2400 meters above sea level.
Uses
The Calyptrochilum preussii Kraenzl. plant is commonly used in traditional African medicine to treat several ailments, including stomach disorders, cough, and respiratory infections. The plant's extracts have shown to be effective against several pathogenic microorganisms such as Escherichia coli and Candida albicans. The plant is also used in horticulture as an ornamental plant due to its beautiful flowers.
Overall, Calyptrochilum preussii Kraenzl. is an attractive, small epiphytic orchid that is native to tropical Africa and is used in traditional African medicine. Its unique and peculiar flowers make it a popular ornamental plant in horticulture.Light Requirements
Calyptrochilum preussii Kraenzl. thrives in moderate to bright filtered light. Direct sunlight can damage the leaves and cause them to yellow. It is best to provide light that mimics its natural habitat by placing the plant in a location with bright, indirect light.
Temperature Requirements
The ideal temperature for Calyptrochilum preussii Kraenzl. is between 18°C to 24°C. It is essential to maintain a consistent temperature as sudden drops or spikes can damage the plant. Temperatures below 10°C can cause stunted growth and yellowing of leaves, while temperatures above 30°C can lead to wilting and drying of the plant.
Soil Requirements
Calyptrochilum preussii Kraenzl. prefers a well-drained soil mixture that is rich in organic matter. A mixture of sphagnum moss, coconut coir, and perlite is an ideal growing medium for this plant. It is best to avoid using heavy soils or soils that retain too much moisture as these can lead to root rot.
Cultivation Methods
Calyptrochilum preussii Kraenzl. plants are usually cultivated in pots or hanging baskets, and they require warm temperatures all year round. They grow well in a medium to bright light, preferably a shaded location. These plants prefer moderate to high humidity, so it is essential to maintain the appropriate humidity level to keep the plant healthy.
Watering Needs
Watering Calyptrochilum preussii Kraenzl. is crucial, and it is essential to avoid over-watering the plant. The soil should be kept slightly damp, but not too wet, especially during the growing season. Watering should be reduced during the winter months when the plant enters a period of dormancy. It is important to avoid splashing water on the leaves and stem, as this could promote the development of fungal diseases.
Fertilization
Calyptrochilum preussii Kraenzl. plants benefit from regular fertilization during the growing season. Use a balanced fertilizer with an equal ratio of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. This should be applied once a month, and it is important to avoid over-fertilizing the plant, as this could lead to the accumulation of salt in the soil.
Pruning
It is essential to remove any diseased, dead, or damaged foliage from Calyptrochilum preussii Kraenzl. plants to maintain a healthy plant. Additionally, pruning can help manage the plant's height and shape, so it's a good idea to trim overgrown stems back to an appropriate length. Pruning should be performed during the growing season and is not recommended during the winter months when the plant is dormant.
Propagation of Calyptrochilum preussii Kraenzl.
Calyptrochilum preussii Kraenzl. can be propagated through several methods. The most common methods are through seeds and orchid division.
Propagation through Seeds
Seeding, though slow, is the cheapest and easiest way to propagate this orchid. After harvesting the seed pods, allow them to mature and dry out. Then, scatter or sow the seeds onto a suitable planting medium. The seeds require a warm temperature and high humidity to germinate. Provide bottom heat and cover the tray or pot with plastic to maintain a humidity of around 70 percent. The first healthy growths should appear after about three months.
Propagation through Division
Division is the quickest way of propagation for Calyptrochilum preussii Kraenzl. and is best done after the orchid has finished blooming. To divide the plant, carefully take it out from its pot. Then, gently tease apart the roots, taking care not to damage them. Cut away any old, dead, or rotten roots and leaves. Divide the plant into as many sections as you like, making sure that each division has healthy stems, leaves, and roots. Repot each division in a suitable orchid substrate and water it thoroughly. During the new growth, provide adequate light and humidity, and make sure not to overwater.
Disease Management
Calyptrochilum preussii Kraenzl., like any other plant, is prone to diseases caused by environmental factors such as fungi, bacteria, and viruses. The diseases that commonly affect this plant include:
- Leaf spot: caused by various fungi, especially during wet and warm weather. This disease causes small, circular spots on the leaves, which later spread and may cause defoliation. To manage this disease, ensure that the plant is well-spaced, properly watered, and ventilated. Use copper-based fungicides to control the spread of the disease.
- Rust: this is caused by fungi and is characterized by brown or yellowish-brown spores on the leaves and stems. To manage this disease, prune and discard affected leaves, sterilize all the pruning tools, and use copper-based fungicides.
- Anthracnose: this disease affects the leaves, flowers, and fruits of Calyptrochilum preussii Kraenzl. It causes dark sunken spots on the leaves and can lead to defoliation. Ensure proper spacing, adequate ventilation, and use copper-based fungicides to control the spread of the disease.
Pest Management
The most common pests that affect Calyptrochilum preussii Kraenzl. include:
- Spider mites: these are tiny pests that suck sap from plant tissues, causing damage to the leaves. They are common in hot and dry weather. To manage spider mites, ensure that the plant is adequately watered, remove affected leaves, and use insecticidal soap.
- Thrips: these are small insects that feed on leaves, flowers, and fruits, causing deformities and discolorations. They are common in warm and dry conditions. To manage thrips, remove affected leaves, provide adequate ventilation, and use insecticidal soap.
- Aphids: these are small insects that suck sap from plant tissues, causing stunted growth and yellowing of leaves. To control aphids, remove affected leaves, use insecticidal soap, and introduce natural predators such as ladybugs and lacewings.
