Origin and Common Names
Cheirostylis divina (Guinea) Summerh. var. ochyrae Szlach. & Olszewski is a rare species of orchid that is native to Guinea in West Africa. This plant is commonly known as the Guinea Cheirostylis.General Appearance
This orchid species is a small to medium-sized plant that typically grows up to 30cm in height. It is usually a terrestrial orchid, which means that it typically grows on the ground and not on trees or rocks like many other orchid species. The leaves of the Guinea Cheirostylis are small and narrow, and they grow in a rosette at the base of the plant. The flower spikes are wiry and slender, and they typically bear 8-10 flowers. The flowers themselves are quite small, measuring only around 1cm in length.Uses
The Guinea Cheirostylis is primarily cultivated as an ornamental plant for its attractive flowers. Due to its rarity, it is mostly found in botanical gardens and private collections. This orchid species does not have any known medicinal or culinary uses. However, it plays an important role in maintaining the ecological balance of its natural habitat in the wild.Light Requirements
Being a shade-loving plant, Cheirostylis divina (Guinea) Summerh. var. ochyrae Szlach. & Olszewski needs moderate to low light to grow properly. Direct sunlight can harm the tender leaves of the plant. A shady spot that receives filtered or dappled sunlight for a few hours daily is ideal for this plant.
Temperature Requirements
The growth of Cheirostylis divina (Guinea) Summerh. var. ochyrae Szlach. & Olszewski is favored by moderate temperatures. The plant prefers a temperature range between 18°C to 23°C (65°F to 75°F) during the day and a minimum of 10°C (50°F) at night. The plant cannot tolerate frost and extreme cold, which can cause irreparable damage.
Soil Requirements
Cheirostylis divina (Guinea) Summerh. var. ochyrae Szlach. & Olszewski grows well in well-draining soils such as loamy, sandy loam or red laterite soils that are rich in organic matter. The plant requires a well-aerated soil as compacted soils can prevent root growth. The soil pH should be acidic with a range between 5.0 to 6.5 for optimal growth.
Cultivation Methods
Cheirostylis divina (Guinea) Summerh. var. ochyrae Szlach. & Olszewski is a terrestrial orchid species that requires a somewhat humid environment to thrive. It is advisable to plant them in well-draining soil mixed with organic matter such as fern roots or sphagnum moss to prevent waterlogging. These plants require a moderate temperature range, preferably between 18-24°C, and in colder areas, it is advisable to grow them indoors or in a greenhouse.
Watering Needs
It is essential to maintain a consistent level of moisture for these plants, avoiding either drought or waterlogging. Orchids prefer to be dry between watering; therefore, it is advisable to allow the top inch of the soil to dry out before watering again. Ensure that the plant's potting medium is well-draining and aerated to prevent waterlogging, which can lead to root rot. Watering twice a week during hot weather is necessary to maintain perfect hydration for these plants.
Fertilization
Cheirostylis divina (Guinea) Summerh. var. ochyrae Szlach. & Olszewski has relatively low nutrient requirements but benefits from regular feeding with a balanced fertilizer. Fertilizing should be done bi-weekly during growing seasons such as spring and summer, and taper-off during winter dormancy. It is advisable to use a balanced fertilizer or a specialized orchid fertilizer containing nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium (N-P-K) to provide the necessary nutrients.
Pruning
Cheirostylis divina (Guinea) Summerh. var. ochyrae Szlach. & Olszewski requires minimal pruning, and it is only necessary if dead or damaged leaves or stems are present. Pruning should be done promptly using sterilized pruning tools to protect the plant from infections, and any dead or decaying tissue removed. Regular inspection and monitoring of the plant's health can nip any problem in the bud. Doing so can encourage clean and healthy foliage, making these beautiful orchids a standout in any garden.
Propagation of Cheirostylis divina var. ochyrae
Cheirostylis divina var. ochyrae can be propagated through two methods: by division and by seed.
Propagation by division
Propagation by division is the easiest and quickest way to propagate Cheirostylis divina var. ochyrae. This method involves dividing the plant into smaller sections and replanting them.
Here's how to propagate by division:
- First, carefully remove the plant from its pot or garden bed, taking care not to damage the roots or the plant itself.
- Using a sharp, sterilized knife or pair of scissors, divide the plant into sections, ensuring that each section has at least one healthy root and a few leaves.
- Replant each section in a pot or garden bed filled with well-draining soil mixed with organic matter.
- Water the newly transplanted sections generously and keep them in a warm, shaded spot until they establish a good root system and begin to grow
Propagation by seed
Cheirostylis divina var. ochyrae can also be propagated by seed. This method requires more time and effort than propagation by division, but it allows for the production of a larger number of new plants.
Here's how to propagate by seed:
- Collect the mature seeds from the plant once they have turned brown.
- Clean the seeds by removing any attached debris and allow them to air dry for a few days.
- Prepare a well-draining potting mix and moisten it.
- Sow the seeds on the surface of the potting mix and cover them with a thin layer of the same mix.
- Water the pot lightly and cover it with plastic wrap or a clear plastic bag to maintain a moist environment.
- Place the pot in a warm and shaded spot, and maintain the soil moisture by misting the surface regularly.
- After a few weeks, the seeds should germinate. At this point, remove the plastic wrap and move the pot to a bright, airy spot while continuing to water regularly.
Propagation by seed can take several months or even years to produce a mature plant, so patience and dedication are required for this method.
Disease Management for Cheirostylis divina / Guinea Summerh. var. ochyrae Szlach. & Olszewski
Although Cheirostylis divina (Guinea) Summerh. var. ochyrae Szlach. & Olszewski is not known to be highly susceptible to diseases, it is still important to monitor the plant's health and take necessary measures to prevent any potential infections. Here are some common diseases that may affect the plant and ways to manage them:
Bacterial Soft Rot
Bacterial soft rot is a common bacterial disease that causes wilting and decay of the leaves and stems. To prevent the spread of the disease, it is important to remove and destroy any infected plant parts. Additionally, make sure to avoid overwatering and maintain proper ventilation to prevent moisture buildup.
Fungal Leaf Spot
Fungal leaf spot is a common disease caused by various species of fungi. Symptoms include small brown or black spots on the leaves. To prevent the spread of fungal leaf spot, remove any infected leaves and avoid watering from above. Additionally, make sure the plant has proper air circulation and avoid overcrowding.
Pest Management for Cheirostylis divina / Guinea Summerh. var. ochyrae Szlach. & Olszewski
Cheirostylis divina (Guinea) Summerh. var. ochyrae Szlach. & Olszewski is not known to be highly susceptible to pests, but here are some common pests that may affect the plant and ways to manage them:
Spider Mites
Spider mites are common pests that suck on the plant's sap, causing yellowing and blackening of the leaves. To manage spider mites, try spraying the plant with a mixture of water and mild soap. Additionally, make sure to maintain proper humidity levels and avoid overcrowding the plant.
Mealybugs
Mealybugs are small insects that suck on the plant's sap, causing yellowing and wilting of the leaves. To manage mealybugs, try spraying the plant with a mixture of water and rubbing alcohol. Additionally, make sure to inspect new plants before bringing them into your collection to prevent the spread of pests.
