Origin
Cynorkis buchwaldiana Kraenzl. subsp. buchwaldiana is a species of orchid found in Madagascar, an island country in the Indian Ocean off the coast of Southeast Africa.
Common Names
This orchid is commonly known as "Buchwald's cynorkis" or "tiavato" in Madagascar.
Uses
While this plant has no known medicinal uses, locals in Madagascar have traditionally used the plant for decoration and cultural purposes.
General Appearance
The plant has a tuberous root system and grows up to 16 cm tall. It has a single, fleshy leaf that grows to be 3.5 to 12 cm long. The leaf's maximum width is 4 cm. It has a stem that grows to approximately 12 cm long and bears an inflorescence. The inflorescence is a raceme of 3-12 flowers that are a creamy white to yellow color. Each flower measures 1.2-1.5 cm wide, and the petals and sepals are spread wide apart to form a star shape. The orchid blooms from March to April.
Light Requirements
Cynorkis buchwaldiana Kraenzl. subsp. buchwaldiana is an orchid species that requires bright, indirect light for optimal growth. It should not be exposed to direct sunlight, as this can damage its leaves and result in stunted growth. Indoors, it can be placed near a bright window that receives filtered light through a sheer curtain or shade. In outdoor settings, it can be grown under shade cloth to filter the sunlight and protect it from direct exposure.
Temperature Requirements
Cynorkis buchwaldiana Kraenzl. subsp. buchwaldiana is a cool-growing orchid species that prefers a temperature range of 10-20°C (50-68°F) during the day and a slightly cooler temperature range of 8-15°C (46-59°F) at night. During the summer months, it can tolerate warmer temperatures up to 25°C (77°F) during the day, but nighttime temperatures should remain in the cool range. These orchids do not tolerate extreme temperatures, and sudden changes in temperature can stress the plant and result in leaf drop.
Soil Requirements
Cynorkis buchwaldiana Kraenzl. subsp. buchwaldiana grows best in well-draining soil that retains some moisture. A mix of coarse bark, perlite, and sphagnum moss can provide the right balance of drainage and moisture retention. The mix should be kept moist but not waterlogged, as overly wet soil can lead to root rot. These orchids grow best in pots with good drainage, and the roots should never sit in standing water.
Cultivation
Cynorkis buchwaldiana Kraenzl. subsp. buchwaldiana can be cultivated in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The plant does best in areas that receive partial shade, such as under the canopy of trees or shrubs. It can also be grown in pots or containers, provided that the soil is well-draining and kept moist.
Watering Needs
The plant requires consistent watering, especially during the growing season. The soil should be kept evenly moist, but not waterlogged. Depending on the climate of the growing area, watering may need to be adjusted during the winter dormancy period.
Fertilization
It is recommended to fertilize the plant during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. Avoid over-fertilizing, which can lead to excessive vegetative growth and reduced flowering. Follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer and adjust as needed depending on the growth response of the plant.
Pruning
Cynorkis buchwaldiana Kraenzl. subsp. buchwaldiana does not require extensive pruning. Deadheading spent flowers can encourage the plant to produce more blooms. If any diseased or damaged foliage is observed, it can be removed to maintain the health of the plant.
Propagation of Cynorkis buchwaldiana Kraenzl. subsp. buchwaldiana
Cynorkis buchwaldiana Kraenzl. subsp. buchwaldiana can be propagated through both seeds and offsets. However, propagating through seeds is the more common method for this plant.
Seed Propagation
The seeds of Cynorkis buchwaldiana Kraenzl. subsp. buchwaldiana are very small and must be handled with care. They can be sown in a mixture of peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite. The seeds must be kept moist and warm, with temperatures around 70-75°F (21-24°C). Once the seedlings emerge, they can be transplanted into individual pots filled with a well-draining planting mix.
Offset Propagation
Offsets, also known as plantlets, can be removed from the parent plant and replanted to create new plants. To do this, select a healthy, mature plant and carefully remove the offsets using a clean, sharp knife. Plant the offsets in a well-draining planting mix and keep them moist. After a few weeks, the offsets should establish roots and begin to grow.
Propagation through offset is a faster method and it ensures that the new plants are genetically identical to the parent plant. However, it is less commonly used as the plant produces only a few offsets.
Disease and Pest Management for Cynorkis buchwaldiana Kraenzl. subsp. buchwaldiana
Cynorkis buchwaldiana Kraenzl. subsp. buchwaldiana, a member of the Orchidaceae family, can be vulnerable to various diseases and pests. To keep the plant healthy and blooming, it is essential to detect the presence of any diseases or pests early and take immediate measures for their management.
Common diseases affecting Cynorkis buchwaldiana Kraenzl. subsp. buchwaldiana and their management
Fungal infections - Cynorkis buchwaldiana Kraenzl. subsp. buchwaldiana can be prone to fungal infections like anthracnose, black spot and root rot. Fungi thrive in moist and damp conditions, creating lesions on the stems and leaves and leading to disintegration of the plant over time. To manage fungal infections, remove the infected parts of the plant and apply a fungicide containing copper or sulfur.
Viral infections - Viral infections can make the leaves of the plant discolored and mottled. Viral infections in Cynorkis buchwaldiana Kraenzl. subsp. buchwaldiana are usually spread by insects. Remove the infected parts, disinfect the tools used, and isolate the plant. No effective cure is known for viral infections, and the best strategy is to destroy the infected plant.
Common pests affecting Cynorkis buchwaldiana Kraenzl. subsp. buchwaldiana and their management
Spider mites - Spider mites are tiny pests that suck the sap from the leaves of Cynorkis buchwaldiana Kraenzl. subsp. buchwaldiana. These pests are prevalent in hot and dry environments and result in yellow spots, premature leaf drop and even death of the plant. In severe cases, apply a pesticide containing neem oil or insecticidal soap.
Mealybugs - Mealybugs feed on the leaves and stems of Cynorkis buchwaldiana Kraenzl. subsp. buchwaldiana, leading to stunted growth and black fungal growth. To manage mealybugs, remove the mealybugs with a cotton swab soaked in alcohol or insecticidal soap. Repeat the process after one week to prevent re-infestation.
Scale insects - Scale insects are small and hard to detect but gather in large numbers and lead to yellowing of leaves and death of the plant. To manage scale insects, scrape the scales off with a toothbrush or any similar object followed by a wash of insecticidal soap.
Preventive measures like ensuring proper air ventilation, watering only when necessary, ensuring good soil drainage, and regular fertilization can also help keep the plants healthy. By adopting a regular inspection schedule and taking appropriate action, one can avoid diseases and pests from causing irreversible damage to the plant.
