Overview
Cyrtorchis arcuata (Lindl.) Schltr. subsp. leonensis Summerh. is a small-growing orchid species that is native to West Africa. It is known for its beautiful and fragrant flowers that bloom throughout the year.
Common Names
Common names for Cyrtorchis arcuata (Lindl.) Schltr. subsp. leonensis Summerh. include the African Arrow Orchid, the African Boat Orchid, and the Leonese Cyrtorchis.
Appearance
The African Arrow Orchid is a clump-forming epiphyte with thin, elongated pseudobulbs that grow up to 30 centimeters tall. The plant produces long, arching, and slender leaves that are flat and twisted. The flowers are fragrant and bloom in clusters, with each flower measuring up to 3 centimeters in diameter. The petals and sepals are greenish-yellow, while the lip is often a darker shade of yellow or orange with a maroon throat.
Uses
Cyrtorchis arcuata (Lindl.) Schltr. subsp. leonensis Summerh. is mainly grown as an ornamental plant in gardens or as a houseplant. It is prized for its beautiful and fragrant flowers that can last up to several weeks. The plant requires high humidity and bright, indirect light to grow and thrive.
Light Conditions
Cyrtorchis arcuata subsp. leonensis Summerh. requires moderate to bright light conditions to grow well. It can be grown in both partially shaded and full sunlight conditions. However, excessive exposure to direct sunlight may cause the leaves to bleach and discolour.
Temperature Requirements
The plant prefers warm temperatures ranging from 18°C to 30°C. It can tolerate temperature fluctuations and a slightly cooler temperature at night, but sudden changes in temperature may stress the plant and affect growth and flowering. Avoid exposing the plant to frost and extremely cold temperatures.
Soil Requirements
Cyrtorchis arcuata subsp. leonensis Summerh. thrives in loose, well-draining, and rich organic soils. The ideal pH range for the plant is between 5.5 and 6.5. The soil should hold moisture but not be waterlogged. A mixture of orchid bark, sphagnum moss, and perlite is a perfect growing media for this plant. It can also be planted in a pot with good drainage holes or mounted on cork or tree fern slabs.
Cultivation
Cyrtorchis arcuata subsp. leonensis is a terrestrial orchid species that naturally grows in rocky areas and in crevices in open savannah forests. In cultivation, it requires well-draining and slightly acidic soil. It can be grown in pots or in the ground, as long as the soil and drainage conditions are met.
Watering Needs
The watering needs of Cyrtorchis arcuata subsp. leonensis vary depending on the season and the growth cycle. During the growing season, it needs to be watered regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. On the other hand, during the dormant season, it needs less water and should be allowed to dry out slightly in between waterings. It is important not to let the plant completely dry out, which can cause damage.
Fertilization
Cyrtorchis arcuata subsp. leonensis benefits from regular fertilization during the growing season. It can be fertilized every two weeks using a balanced fertilizer with equal parts nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. It is important not to overfeed the plant, as this can cause damage to the roots and burn the leaves.
Pruning
Pruning is not necessary for Cyrtorchis arcuata subsp. leonensis. However, it can benefit from deadheading, which is the removal of spent flowers. This encourages the plant to produce new blooms and prevents the plant's energy from being diverted into producing seeds. Deadheading can be done by cutting off the stem above the first or second node below the spent flower.
Propagation of Cyrtorchis arcuata (Lindl.) Schltr. subsp. leonensis Summerh.
Cyrtorchis arcuata (Lindl.) Schltr. subsp. leonensis Summerh. can be propagated through multiple methods. These include:
Division
Division is the most common method of propagating Cyrtorchis arcuata (Lindl.) Schltr. subsp. leonensis Summerh. To do this, separate the plant into smaller sections with sharp, sterile shears and plant them in individual pots with well-draining soil. Ensure each section has at least two growth points and that you avoid damaging the roots.
Keiki Offsets
Keiki is the Hawaiian term for "baby" or "child." Orchid keikis are little plantlets that grow on the mother plant's stem. To propagate Cyrtorchis arcuata (Lindl.) Schltr. subsp. leonensis Summerh. through keiki offsets, use clean and sharp scissors or pruning shears to cut the keiki from the stem once it has developed several leaves and roots and replant in well-draining soil.
Seed Propagation
Seed propagation of Cyrtorchis arcuata (Lindl.) Schltr. subsp. leonensis Summerh. is more complicated and time-consuming than the previous two methods. Sow seeds in planting containers with high-quality orchid potting mix, cover lightly, and water sparingly. Keep the seeds in a warm and moist environment, and it can take up to three months for them to germinate. Ensure that, after germination, seedlings are planted in individual pots to prevent crowding.
Propagation of Cyrtorchis arcuata (Lindl.) Schltr. subsp. leonensis Summerh. takes patience and careful attention to detail, but the rewards are well worth it.
Disease Management
Cyrtorchis arcuata (Lindl.) Schltr. subsp. leonensis Summerh. is susceptible to certain diseases that can affect its growth and development. Here are some common diseases and ways to manage them:
- Fungal diseases: Common fungal diseases that can affect this orchid include root rot, leaf spots, and stem rot. To manage these diseases, it is important to maintain proper hygiene practices such as avoiding overwatering, maintaining good airflow, and removing infected plant parts. Fungicides may also be used but should be used sparingly.
- Viral diseases: Often, viral diseases cannot be directly treated, and the best way to prevent them from spreading is to remove and dispose of the infected plants. It is critical to implement good hygiene practices such as washing hands and tools before and after handling plants, wearing gloves, and disinfecting tools between use to avoid the spread of any viral diseases.
Pest Management
Here are some of the pests that can affect Cyrtorchis arcuata (Lindl.) Schltr. subsp. leonensis Summerh. and ways to manage them:
- Spider mites: These tiny pests can cause leaves to yellow and look speckled. To manage spider mites, increase air humidity levels, and avoid over-fertilizing the plant. Non-chemical control methods include regularly cleaning and misting the plant with water, applying neem oil, or using predatory mites.
- Mealybugs: Mealybugs are small white insects that can leave a sticky residue on plants. They typically feed on stems and leaves. To manage mealybugs, it is recommended to isolate the affected plants and remove mealybugs by hand, wiping them off with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol or spraying with insecticidal soap.
- Scale insects: These pests can be challenging to see as they often blend in with the stems and leaves. Symptoms can include yellowing leaves and stunted growth. To manage scale insects, wiping infested plants with a cloth soaked in rubbing alcohol or using an insecticidal soap can work, if done before the infestation gets severe.
