Introduction
Cymbidium ustulatum Bolus, also known as the burnt orchid, is a species of flowering plants that belongs to the Orchidaceae family. This orchid has its origin in South Africa, particularly in the Cape Province.Appearance
The Cymbidium ustulatum Bolus is a medium-sized evergreen plant that can grow up to 70 cm in height. Its leaves can reach up to 60 cm in length and are strap-shaped, leathery, and darker green in color. The inflorescence arises from elongated pseudobulbs and bears up to ten fragrant flowers. Each flower is 4 to 5 cm in diameter and has green-yellow petals, sepals, and a lip. The lip is white with a yellow base and three lobes in the center.Common Names
The Cymbidium ustulatum Bolus is commonly known as the burnt orchid due to the distinctive burnt smell of its flowers. It is also known as the "smelly orchid" or "stinking Cymbidium" because of its unpleasant fragrance.Uses
The Cymbidium ustulatum Bolus is widely grown as an ornamental plant due to its beauty and aesthetic value. It is also believed to have medicinal properties, and in some parts of South Africa, it is used as an herbal remedy for various ailments. The roots of the plants are boiled, and the resulting decoction is administered orally or applied externally for the treatment of fever, headaches, and wound healing. In conclusion, the Cymbidium ustulatum Bolus is an attractive plant with a unique aroma that is grown for its ornamental and medicinal value. Its striking appearance makes it an excellent addition to any garden, while its medicinal properties make it a valuable resource for traditional medicine.Light Requirements
Cymbidium ustulatum Bolus is a species of orchid that prefers bright, but indirect sunlight. It grows well in partial shade, under the shade of trees, and in a greenroom with filtered light. Excessive direct sunlight can burn the leaves of the plant.
Temperature Requirements
This plant is native to South Africa, where it grows in a cool, moist climate. It grows best in temperatures between 50?-68? during the day, with a drop of 10 to 15 degrees in the nighttime. High temperatures can cause the plant to stop blooming, while low temperatures can cause damage to the flower buds.
Soil Requirements
Cymbidium ustulatum Bolus grows best in a well-draining, nutrient-rich soil mixture that is made from pine bark, peat moss, and perlite or vermiculite. The soil should have a slightly acidic pH of 5.5-6.5. Adequate drainage is essential because this orchid doesn't tolerate waterlogged soil, which can lead to root rot.
Cultivation of Cymbidium ustulatum Bolus
Cymbidium ustulatum Bolus, also known as the burnt orchid, is an epiphytic orchid that thrives in high altitudes. It is native to Lesotho and South Africa and prefers to grow in shady areas with high humidity levels. When planting Cymbidium ustulatum Bolus, make sure to provide adequate spacing to allow the plant to grow and spread.
The plant can be grown in pots or mounted on a slab of bark. If grown in a pot, use a well-draining potting mix to prevent waterlogging. The orchid should be planted in a pot that is slightly larger than its rhizome. When mounting on a slab, use sphagnum moss or coconut coir as a medium and tie the orchid firmly to the slab.
Watering Needs
Cymbidium ustulatum Bolus requires regular watering to keep the potting mix or moss moist. However, overwatering can cause the plant's roots to rot. Water the plant when the potting mix or moss becomes dry to the touch. The frequency of watering depends on the humidity levels and the container's size. Water the plant more frequently during the growing season and reduce watering during the dormant period.
Fertilization
Cymbidium ustulatum Bolus requires regular fertilization throughout the growing season. Use a balanced fertilizer with equal proportions of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Fertilize the orchid every two to three weeks during the growing season. Reduce to once a month during the dormant period. Avoid fertilizing the plant when the potting mix or moss is dry to avoid burning the delicate roots.
Pruning
Pruning Cymbidium ustulatum Bolus is necessary to promote new growth and maintain its shape. Cut back the old flower spikes after they have finished blooming to encourage the development of new spikes. Remove any dead or yellowing leaves to prevent the spread of diseases and pests. Divide the orchid every three to four years to promote growth, but avoid disturbing the roots too much as they are fragile.
Propagation Methods for Cymbidium ustulatum Bolus
Cymbidium ustulatum Bolus can be propagated through various methods such as division, back bulbs, and seed propagation.
Division
Division is the most commonly used method to propagate Cymbidium ustulatum Bolus. The plant usually forms a clump that can be carefully divided into smaller sections that each have at least three back bulbs and some roots. It is best to divide the plant during the dormant period when the plant is not in bloom. The plant should be replanted in a well-draining media mix with good air circulation.
Back Bulbs
Back bulbs can also be used to propagate Cymbidium ustulatum Bolus. The back bulbs are the old bulbs that are at the back of the plant, and they can be separated and potted up with some roots attached. This method can be used for plants that have lost their front bulbs due to aging or damage. The back bulbs will eventually produce new growth and can be repotted as needed.
Seed Propagation
Seed propagation can also be used to propagate Cymbidium ustulatum Bolus. The process involves collecting the seed pods that have matured and extracting the seeds. The seeds should be planted in a sterile medium and kept under moist, warm conditions until they germinate. The seedlings can be transplanted into their own pots when they are large enough to handle. This method can take several years for the plant to mature and bloom.
Disease and Pest Management for Cymbidium ustulatum Bolus Plants
Cymbidium ustulatum Bolus is a popular orchid species, admired for its beautiful yellowish-green flowers and easy-to-maintain nature. Nonetheless, these elegant plants can be vulnerable to a range of diseases and pests, such as:
Common Pests
1. Mealybugs: These are sap-sucking insects that often hide in the plant's crevices and tend to reproduce quickly. They cause deformities in new growth and can ultimately lead to plant death. To control them, wipe the plant leaves and stems with a soft, damp cloth with a mixture of water and mild soap and repeat this process regularly. You can also use horticultural oil sprays as a preventive measure.
2. Thrips: These tiny insects appear as silver or black dots on the flowers and underside of leaves. They also damage blossoms and feed on the plant's juices, leading to stunted growth. To manage thrip outbreaks, isolate the infected plant and wash it with a hose, preferably in the morning, because thrips are often less active at that time of day. Insecticidal soap sprays and mosquito nets can also help.
Common Diseases
1. Crown or root rot: When the crown or roots of the plant are infected by fungi or bacteria, it leads to crown rot or root rot, respectively. This disease causes black lesions on the plant and often results in the orchid's death. Implement preventive measures, like ensuring drainage is sufficient and watering the plant with appropriate care. In the case of plant infection, remove the whole infected part of the plant and apply a fungicide to the affected area
2. Leaf spot: This is a fungal disease that causes dark spots or a brownish-purple color on the leaves and flowers. In severe cases, the plant's leaves turn yellow and drop off, causing reduced growth and potential death. Avoid overwatering, keep the plant in a dry and well-ventilated place, and apply a fungicide to manage this issue.
To conclude, taking preventive measures and continuously monitoring the plant's growth is crucial in reducing the risk of diseases and pest infestations for your Cymbidium ustulatum Bolus plant.
