Origin
Cheirostylis gymnochiloides (Ridl.) Rchb.f. is commonly found in Southeast Asia, particularly in the countries of Malaysia, Borneo, Philippines and Sumatra where it thrives in the understories of lowland and hill forests.
Common Names
Cheirostylis gymnochiloides (Ridl.) Rchb.f. has various common names, such as Naked-Lip Cheirostylis, Cheirostylis Orchid, and Bare-Lipped Cheirostylis.
Uses
Although not used for medicinal purposes, Cheirostylis gymnochiloides (Ridl.) Rchb.f. is an attractive plant commonly grown in gardens as an ornamental. Due to its delicate and intricate appearance, it is often used for decoration in weddings, events, and other celebrations in the countries where it is found. Moreover, it is used in the preparation of floral arrangements or as cut flowers since it can last for several days.
General Appearance
Cheirostylis gymnochiloides (Ridl.) Rchb.f. is a small-sized plant usually growing up to nine inches tall. It has a single stem and produces a few, broad, and ovate to oblong leaves positioned alternately. The plant's inflorescence is borne on a single flowering stalk, consisting of small, light-colored flowers on hairy bracts. Each flower has a narrow lip that measures around three millimeters and two fleshy, purplish-brown petals.
Light Requirements:
The Cheirostylis gymnochiloides plant prefers moderate light conditions. Direct sunlight may be harmful to this plant and can cause leaf burn. This plant is best suited for indoor environments where it can receive bright, indirect light. It can also thrive under fluorescent lighting.
Temperature Requirements:
The Cheirostylis gymnochiloides plant grows well in temperatures ranging from 15°C to 30°C. This temperature range is necessary for the plant to maintain healthy growth and prevent stress. Extreme fluctuations in temperature can harm the plant, so it's essential to keep it away from drafty areas or areas with temperature fluctuations.
Soil Requirements:
The Cheirostylis gymnochiloides plant requires well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter and maintains moisture. A good soil mix should include peat moss, perlite, and bark mix. It's essential to avoid using soil mixtures that retain too much water or are too heavy for the plant to grow correctly.
Cultivation
Cheirostylis gymnochiloides (Ridl.) Rchb.f. is an epiphytic orchid that typically grows on tree trunks, rocks, and other organic matters. It is widely distributed in tropical regions of Asia, including Malaysia, Sumatra, and Borneo. To cultivate this orchid at home, you need to simulate the natural habitat by providing the right growing conditions and care.
Light
Like most orchids, Cheirostylis gymnochiloides (Ridl.) Rchb.f. requires moderate to bright indirect light to thrive. You can place it near a west or east-facing window, but avoid direct sunlight, which can burn the foliage. In the absence of suitable natural light, you can use artificial light sources such as fluorescent or LED grow lights.
Temperature and Humidity
Cheirostylis gymnochiloides (Ridl.) Rchb.f. prefers warm and humid conditions, similar to its natural habitat. Aim to keep the temperature between 60 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit and the humidity level around 50-70%. You can achieve the desired humidity by placing a tray of water near the orchid or using a humidifier. Mist the orchid daily to keep the foliage fresh.
Watering
Watering is an essential aspect of Cheirostylis gymnochiloides (Ridl.) Rchb.f. care. Water the orchid regularly but avoid overwatering, as it can lead to root rot. The best way to water this plant is to soak it entirely in lukewarm water for 10-15 minutes, then allow the excess water to drain out. Repeat the process when the potting mix feels dry to the touch.
Fertilization
Fertilization is an essential part of orchid care, as it provides the necessary nutrients for growth and flowering. Use a balanced orchid fertilizer, with a ratio of 20-20-20, and apply it every two weeks during the growing season. Reduce the frequency to once a month during the dormant season. Avoid overfertilization, as it can damage the roots and foliage.
Pruning
Pruning is not as crucial for epiphytic orchids as it is for other plants. However, you can trim the spent flower spikes to promote new growth and avoid wasting energy. Cut the spike down to the base, using a sharp and sterile pair of scissors. Do not remove any healthy foliage, as it is crucial for photosynthesis and nutrient absorption.
Propagation of Cheirostylis gymnochiloides
Cheirostylis gymnochiloides is a rare orchid species that can naturally reproduce through seed germination or vegetative propagation. Here is a brief summary of the different propagation methods:
Seed propagation
The propagation of Cheirostylis gymnochiloides through seeds is generally considered the most challenging method. As this orchid species can only be found in the wild, harvesting its seeds may not be accessible to everyone. In addition, Cheirostylis gymnochiloides requires an ideal environment, which is often difficult to mimic, to germinate its seeds successfully.
One of the things to note is that Cheirostylis gymnochiloides seeds need to be sown as soon as possible, as they are prone to desiccation. Growers need to use a fine media composed of sphagnum moss, perlite, or vermiculite that holds moisture to sow the seeds. Place the media in a sterile container and autoclave it in preparation for planting.
Afterwards, lightly sprinkle the seeds over the media and cover the container with plastic to maintain high humidity. The seeds will usually germinate in about four weeks and will require a stable environment with lots of light and moisture.
Vegetative propagation
Cheirostylis gymnochiloides can also be propagated vegetatively, specifically through division or tissue culture. Division is the most straightforward method, where the grower gently removes the plant from its pot and divides the roots and rhizomes into smaller segments. Each segment should have a reasonable covering of leaves and roots, and can be potted in a suitable medium.
Tissue culture is a more advanced propagation method where plant cells are cultured in a nutrient-rich solution. This method allows growers to propagate multiple clones of Cheirostylis gymnochiloides rapidly. However, tissue culture is best performed by experienced or professional growers.
Disease and Pest Management for Cheirostylis gymnochiloides (Ridl.) Rchb.f.
Cheirostylis gymnochiloides (Ridl.) Rchb.f., also known as the Naked Filipodia, is a rare and beautiful orchid species. Like all plants, it is susceptible to various diseases and pests. Effective management of these diseases and pests is crucial for the plant's survival and optimal growth. Here, we discuss some common diseases and pests that affect Cheirostylis gymnochiloides and suggest ways to manage them.
Common Diseases
Some common diseases that Cheirostylis gymnochiloides might face include root rot, leaf-spotting, and viral infections.
Root Rot: This disease is caused by various fungi, including Pythium and Phytophthora. Symptoms include yellowing and wilting leaves, a foul odor coming from the plant, and a soft, mushy texture on affected roots. To manage root rot, remove infected parts of the plant, repot it using a well-draining soil mixture, and avoid overwatering.
Leaf-Spotting: This disease is caused by bacteria and fungi that cause brown or black spots on the leaves. It can lead to defoliation, reduced photosynthesis, and stunted growth. To manage leaf-spotting, remove affected leaves, improve air circulation around the plant, and avoid overhead watering.
Viral Infections: Viral infections can cause mottling and yellowing of the leaves, stunted growth, and distorted flowers. Unfortunately, there is no cure for viral infections, and infected plants should be removed and destroyed to prevent further contamination.
Common Pests
The most common pests that Cheirostylis gymnochiloides might face are spider mites and scale insects.
Spider Mites: These tiny, sap-sucking pests can cause reduced photosynthesis, yellowing leaves, and webbing around the plant. To manage spider mites, remove affected plant parts, reduce humidity, increase ventilation, and apply insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Scale Insects: These pests feed on the plant's sap and often secrete a sticky residue called honeydew. Scale insects can cause wilting, yellowing leaves, and stunted growth. To manage scale insects, remove the affected plant parts, apply horticultural oil or insecticidal soap, increase ventilation, and maintain good plant hygiene.
By being vigilant for signs of disease and pests and implementing appropriate management strategies, Cheirostylis gymnochiloides can thrive and grow into a beautiful and healthy plant.
