Overview
Corymborkis bolusiana Schltr. is a terrestrial orchid species belonging to the family Orchidaceae. It is native to South Africa and is commonly found in the provinces of KwaZulu-Natal, Mpumalanga, and the Eastern Cape. Corymborkis bolusiana Schltr. is also known by its common name, Bolus' Corymborkis.Description
Corymborkis bolusiana Schltr. is a small, herbaceous plant that grows up to 25 cm tall. It produces a single leaf that is oblong or lanceolate and measures around 10 cm in length. The plant has an erect stem with a few basal sheaths and produces a dense raceme of flowers. The inflorescence is 8-20 cm long and consists of around 20-30 small, fragrant flowers. The flowers are yellow-green in color and have a lip that is white or yellow.Uses
Corymborkis bolusiana Schltr. is not commonly used for medicinal purposes; however, the plant is used as a decorative plant in gardens and as an ornamental plant in homes. It is a popular plant among collectors of exotic orchids. Gardeners who are interested in cultivating this plant should ensure that it is grown in a humid environment with ample light and watering. It can also be propagated through seed or division.Conclusion
Corymborkis bolusiana Schltr. is a visually stunning orchid that is popular among horticulturists and orchid collectors. Its origin in South Africa has led to it being a relatively rare specimen in many parts of the world. Its unique shape and fragrant flowers make it a valuable addition to any garden or home, while its ease of cultivation make it a suitable plant for both amateur and professional gardeners.Light Requirements
Corymborkis bolusiana Schltr. requires bright but indirect sunlight. It can grow under partial shade, but too much shade can stunt its growth. Direct sunlight can damage the plant's leaves and may cause sunburn.
Temperature Requirements
These plants prefer a warm and humid environment. The ideal temperature range for Corymborkis bolusiana Schltr. is between 20°C to 26°C (68°F to 79°F). It can tolerate temperatures as low as 15°C (59°F) and as high as 32°C (90°F), but extreme temperatures can cause damage to the plant.
Soil Requirements
Corymborkis bolusiana Schltr. grows well in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil pH should be slightly acidic to neutral, around 6.0 to 7.0. The plant can tolerate slightly alkaline soils up to 7.5, but it may suffer in extremely acidic or alkaline soils.
It is recommended to use a mixture of orchid bark, peat moss, and perlite to create a well-draining soil mix for Corymborkis bolusiana Schltr. They can also grow well in a sphagnum moss-based substrate or in a hydroponic system. Good soil drainage is essential to prevent waterlogging, which can lead to root rot and fungal infections.
Cultivation Methods
Corymborkis bolusiana requires a humid environment with good air circulation. It can be grown in pots or mounted on a tree trunk or a piece of bark. When planting in a pot, use a well-draining potting mix. The plant prefers bright, indirect light and temperatures around 20-25°C.
Watering Needs
The watering needs of Corymborkis bolusiana vary depending on the season. During the growing season, water the plant regularly and keep the potting mix moist. In the dormant season, reduce watering frequency and allow the potting mix to dry slightly between watering. Do not allow the plant to sit in water for extended periods as this can lead to root rot.
Fertilization
Fertilize Corymborkis bolusiana during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. Use a weak fertilizer solution every two weeks to avoid over-fertilization. During the dormant season, stop fertilizing the plant.
Pruning
Pruning of Corymborkis bolusiana is not necessary, but it can be done to control the plant's size and shape. Cut off any yellow or damaged leaves using sterile pruning shears. If the plant is mounted on a piece of bark, remove any dead bark and replace it with fresh bark.
Propagation of Corymborkis bolusiana Schltr.
Corymborkis bolusiana Schltr., also known as the Chinese Lantern Orchid, is a terrestrial orchid that grows in the grassy areas of Southern Africa. It propagates through its underground rhizomes and the formation of keikis or plantlets that grow from the main plant.
Propagation through Rhizomes
The easiest and most common way to propagate Corymborkis bolusiana Schltr. is through its underground rhizomes. Rhizomes are the horizontal stems that grow underground, and they produce shoots and roots from their nodes. To propagate through rhizomes, identify a healthy plant with several rhizomes and healthy roots, and gently remove it from the soil. Divide the rhizomes carefully, ensuring that each section has at least one healthy shoot and a portion of root. The divided sections can be planted in separate pots or in the same pot, with appropriate soil and moisture levels.
Propagation through Keikis
Corymborkis bolusiana Schltr. also produces keikis or plantlets that grow from the main plant. Keikis are miniature versions of the parent plant that grow from the stem nodes. To propagate through keikis, identify a healthy plant with several keikis growing from the stem. Cut the keikis from the parent plant using a sterilized knife or scissors, taking care to leave a portion of stem attached to the keiki. Plant the keikis in a pot with appropriate soil and moisture levels, and ensure they receive bright, indirect sunlight.
Disease and Pest Management for Corymborkis bolusiana Schltr.
Corymborkis bolusiana Schltr. is a beautiful orchid species. One of the keys to growing healthy Corymborkis bolusiana Schltr. plants is to protect them from diseases and pests.
Common Diseases
Corymborkis bolusiana Schltr. is not prone to many diseases, but it is susceptible to root rot, which can be caused by overwatering. When the roots are waterlogged, they cannot get enough oxygen, and a fungus can develop. The fungus will eventually kill the roots, causing the plant to wilt and die.
Pest Management
One of the most common pests that attack Corymborkis bolusiana Schltr. is spider mites. These tiny pests can suck the sap out of the leaves and cause them to dry up and die. They also produce webbing that can make the plant look unsightly. Spider mites thrive in hot, dry conditions, so it is important to keep the humidity high around the plant by misting it regularly.
Aphids can also be a problem for Corymborkis bolusiana Schltr. These small insects suck the sap out of the leaves and can cause them to curl up and die. They reproduce quickly, so it is important to catch them early. You can wash them off the plant with a strong blast of water, or you can use an insecticidal soap to get rid of them.
In conclusion, by being mindful of watering habits and keeping an eye out for common pests, you can successfully manage any diseases and pests that might affect your Corymborkis bolusiana Schltr. plant.
