Origin and Common Names
Cheirostylis divina var. divina, also known as Guinea Cheirostylis or Divine Cheirostylis, is a species of orchid that originates from the tropical regions of West Africa, particularly in the countries of Guinea, Sierra Leone, and Liberia.General Appearance
The Guinea Cheirostylis is characterized by its small, delicate flowers that grow sparsely on a single stem. The flowers are usually colored yellowish-green to brownish-pink and are approximately 1.5 cm in length. The plant has a rhizomatous growth habit that allows it to spread horizontally, and it can grow up to a height of 20 cm.Uses
This orchid species is primarily used for ornamental purposes, as it is highly valued for its unique and attractive appearance. It is commonly cultivated in tropical gardens and greenhouses, where it serves as an exotic addition to flower arrangements and bouquets. In some cultures, the Guinea Cheirostylis is also used for medicinal purposes, particularly in the treatment of infections and inflammations.Growth Conditions of Cheirostylis divina (Guinea) Summerh. var. divina
Light: Cheirostylis divina (Guinea) Summerh. var. divina thrives best in partial shade to full shade. The plant cannot tolerate direct sunlight as it can lead to burning of the leaves. It is best to place the plant in east or north-facing windows where it will receive bright but indirect light.
Temperature: The plant grows best in warm to moderately cool temperatures ranging from 60 to 80°F (15 to 27°C). The minimum temperature for the plant is 55°F (13°C), and temperatures below this can lead to stunted growth or death of the plant.
Humidity: Cheirostylis divina (Guinea) Summerh. var. divina prefers high humidity levels of between 50% and 70%. Therefore, it is essential to maintain humid conditions by regularly misting the leaves or placing the plant on a tray of pebbles filled with water.
Soil: The plant requires a well-draining soil rich in organic matter. A soil mix consisting of sphagnum moss, fine orchid bark, and perlite or charcoal is suitable for the plant. Ensure that the pot has proper drainage to prevent waterlogging, which can lead to root rot.
Fertilizer: Cheirostylis divina (Guinea) Summerh. var. divina requires fertilizer during the growing season (spring and summer). Use a balanced orchid fertilizer, mixed with a quarter strength in every watering. Avoid over-fertilization as this can lead to salt buildup in the soil, which can be detrimental to the plant's growth.
Water: The plant requires regular but moderate watering. Water the plant when the potting mix feels dry to the touch, and ensure that the water drains freely from the bottom of the pot. Overwatering can lead to waterlogging, which can cause root rot.
Dormancy: The plant undergoes a dormant stage during the winter months. Reduce watering during this period and place the plant in a cool place with reduced lighting to allow it to rest. Resume regular care once new growth begins in the spring.
Cultivation Methods
The Cheirostylis divina (Guinea) Summerh. var. divina can be grown indoors or outdoors. When planting this species, you should consider the location, soil conditions and weather conditions. The plant prefers a well-drained soil and a partially shaded to fully shaded area. It can tolerate the humidity present in tropical regions.
Watering Needs
When it comes to watering, Cheirostylis divina should be watered regularly. Water the plant thoroughly and keep the soil moist. However, you should avoid overwatering as the plant can easily rot. Ensure that the soil is not soggy or waterlogged, and allow the soil to dry up slightly between watering. In dry conditions, you should water the plant frequently to keep the soil consistently moist.
Fertilization
The Cheirostylis divina requires a balanced fertilizer to reach its full growth potential. Ideally, you should fertilize the plant with a 20-20-20 fertilizer every week during the growing season. Alternatively, you can apply a slow-release fertilizer in the soil once in three months.
Pruning
Pruning is not necessary for the Cheirostylis divina. However, if the plant becomes too large or unruly, you can trim the leaves to your desired shape and size. Use a sharp and clean pruning tool, and cut the leaves close to the base. This will promote new growth and keep the plant neat and tidy.
Propagation of Cheirostylis divina (Guinea) Summerh. var. divina
The propagation of Cheirostylis divina (Guinea) Summerh. var. divina is generally done through seed propagation or vegetative propagation methods such as division and tissue culture.
Seed propagation
Seeds of Cheirostylis divina (Guinea) Summerh. var. divina can be collected and sown in a seedbed containing moist, well-drained soil mix. The seedlings will germinate in a period of 1-3 months, depending on the environmental conditions.
After the seedlings develop their first few leaves, they can be transplanted into individual containers filled with a suitable soil mix. The plants can be grown under shade or semi-shade conditions, which are similar to their natural habitat.
Vegetative propagation
Division: Mature plants can be divided into smaller sections, each with a healthy root system and stem, during the dormant period. The separated sections can be transplanted into separate containers filled with the ideal soil mix and placed in a shaded area until they develop new roots and shoots.
Tissue culture: This propagation method involves the use of plant tissue to produce identical copies of the parent plant. The process involves the collection of a small piece of plant tissue from a healthy plant, which is then placed in a sterilized nutrient medium where it develops new shoots and roots. The resulting plantlets are then transplanted into containers filled with the suitable soil mix.
While propagation of Cheirostylis divina (Guinea) Summerh. var. divina can be challenging, with appropriate care and attention, the plant can be multiplied using the above-described propagation methods, ensuring a healthy plant population in a given area.
Disease Management for Cheirostylis divina (Guinea) Summerh. var. divina
The main diseases that can affect the plant Cheroistylis divina are fungal and bacterial infections on leaves and roots. Symptoms include yellowing and wilting of leaves, leaf spots, and stunted growth, amongst others.
To manage fungal diseases, it’s important to avoid over watering and ensure proper drainage. Remove any infected leaves and provide proper ventilation to reduce humidity levels around the plant. If the problem persists, use a fungicide to prevent further spread.
Bacterial infections can be prevented by practicing good hygiene such as avoiding overcrowding, removing infected plant parts and proper sanitation of tools. It is recommended to use a bactericide for effective control of bacterial diseases. Also, avoid overhead watering as this can spread bacterial infections.
Pest Management for Cheirostylis divina (Guinea) Summerh. var. divina
The common pest that can affect the plant Cheroistylis divina are mealybugs, scale insects and spider mites. These pests tend to feed on the sap of the plant and can defoliate the plant if not managed promptly.
To manage these pests, it’s important to practice good hygiene practices and avoid overcrowding. Remove any infected leaves, properly sanitize your tools and consider introducing biological control methods such as predatory mites to the affected plants. Alternatively, a neem oil insecticide can be used to control the pests.
Regular inspection of your Cheirostylis divina plants and maintenance practices can help prevent diseases and pests from affecting the plant and keep them healthy and thriving.
