Origin:
Crepidorhopalon welwitschii (Engl.) Eb.Fisch. is a plant species that belongs to the Orchidaceae family. It is native to Angola, specifically in the central and southwestern part of the country. The plant grows on rocks and in marshy places in the highlands.
Common Names:
Crepidorhopalon welwitschii is commonly known as the Welwitsch's Crepidium or simply as Crepidium. Other names include Tiny Campanula Orchid and Small Bell Orchid.
Uses:
Crepidorhopalon welwitschii is not well-known for any medicinal or commercial use. However, as a decorative plant, it is highly esteemed and grown primarily for ornamental purposes due to its elegant and striking appearance.
General Appearance:
The Crepidorhopalon welwitschii is a small, epiphytic plant with a creeping rhizome that forms clusters of solitary stems. The stems of the plant are erect, thin, and cylindrical, 6-15 cm in height, and with alternating leaves. The leaves of the plant are thin, oblong, and dark green with a length of 8-12 cm. The inflorescence is a loose, airy flower spike with up to 15 small, bell-shaped flowers that are 0.5-1 cm in size. The flowers are either green or yellow-green, with deep maroon markings at the base of the lip. The blooming period for Crepidorhopalon welwitschii is from October to February.
Light Requirements
Crepidorhopalon welwitschii requires bright, indirect light. Direct sunlight may scorch its foliage, so it's best to place the plant near a window that receives partial sun or in a location with filtered light.
Temperature Requirements
This plant prefers warm temperatures ranging from 60-85°F (15-29°C). It cannot tolerate extreme heat or cold. Avoid placing it in areas with drafts or sudden temperature changes, such as near windows or air-conditioning units.
Soil Requirements
Crepidorhopalon welwitschii requires well-draining soil that's rich in organic matter. Use a high-quality potting mix with perlite or sand to improve drainage. The soil pH range should be slightly acidic to neutral, between 5.5-7.0.
Cultivation
The Crepidorhopalon welwitschii, or commonly known as the Giant Sun Orchid, is a beautiful orchid plant that requires specific care to grow healthy. It thrives best in areas with a high humidity level and a temperature range of 18-24°C. As an orchid species, it prefers bright, indirect sunlight where it can receive enough light without getting scorched.
The plant prefers well-aerated soil that allows water to drain, and a mix of peat moss, coarse sand, and orchid bark will work well. The pot should be small and should be repotted only when necessary. In general, this species does not require frequent repotting, as it prefers to be pot-bound.
Watering Needs
Unlike other orchid species, the Giant Sun Orchid requires more frequent watering. It prefers to remain moist but not completely waterlogged. You can water the plant once per week, or more depending on the humidity level in your growing area. To check if the plant needs water, insert a finger in the soil to a depth of a few centimeters. If it feels dry, it's time to water the plant.
Fertilization
Applying fertilizer is important when growing the Crepidorhopalon welwitschii. Use a balanced fertilizer at half the strength recommended by the manufacturer. You should add fertilizers only after watering the plant, as the water will help distribute the nutrients evenly throughout the soil. It is essential to avoid over-fertilizing, as it can damage the plant's roots and lead to its death.
Pruning
The Giant sun Orchid does not require frequent pruning, as it is a slow-growing plant. In general, you can trim away any dead or diseased leaves using a sharp pair of scissors. You can also remove any yellow leaves or stem segments that have shriveled or become soft. Doing this will prevent the dead tissue from spreading to other parts of the plant, thus keeping it healthier.
Propagation Methods for Crepidorhopalon welwitschii (Engl.) Eb.Fisch.
Propagation of Crepidorhopalon welwitschii can be accomplished through either sexual or asexual methods.
Sexual Propagation
Seeds are the primary method of sexual propagation for Crepidorhopalon welwitschii. The plant produces small, black seeds that can be harvested once they have become dry and brittle on the plant. These seeds can be sown directly into the soil or started in pots before transplanting. Soil mixtures that are well-draining and contain perlite or sand are ideal for this plant.
Asexual Propagation
Crepidorhopalon welwitschii can also be propagated asexually through division or stem cuttings.
Division involves separating the plant into smaller sections with their own roots and shoots. This can be done when the plant has outgrown its current container or during transplanting. Care should be taken to ensure that each section contains enough roots to support the plant.
Stem cuttings can be taken from healthy plants and rooted in a well-draining soil mixture. The cuttings should be approximately four to six inches long and consist of a few nodes. Remove the lower leaves and dip the cut end in rooting hormone before planting. The cuttings should be kept in a protected and humid area until root growth is seen.
Disease Management
Crepidorhopalon welwitschii is susceptible to fungal diseases such as leaf spots and stem rots. Good sanitation practices are crucial in preventing the spread of such diseases. This includes keeping the soil and surrounding area free from debris and removing infected plant parts immediately.
Fungicides can be used to manage these diseases, but it is important to identify the specific type of fungus causing the issue. Contact a plant disease specialist or extension agent for proper diagnosis and treatment recommendations.
Pest Management
Common pests that may affect Crepidorhopalon welwitschii include mealybugs, spider mites, and thrips. These pests can cause damage to the plant by feeding on the foliage and sucking out sap from the stems.
To manage these pests, check the plant regularly for any signs of infestation, such as webbing or white, cottony spots. Isolating the infected plant can help prevent the spread of infestation to other nearby plants.
Biological control methods, such as introducing predatory insects like ladybugs and lacewings, can also be effective in managing pest populations. Insecticidal soaps or oils may also be used, but be sure to follow application instructions carefully to avoid damage to the plant.
