Overview
Cyrtorchis praetermissa Summerh. is a species of orchid that belongs to the genus Cyrtorchis. This plant is known for its attractive and showy flowers, which make it a popular ornamental plant in many parts of the world.
Origin and Common Names
Cyrtorchis praetermissa Summerh. is native to tropical Africa and can be found in countries such as Cameroon, Equatorial Guinea, and Gabon. This orchid is commonly referred to as the "Chinese Lantern" or the "African Flame Orchid" due to the unique shape and color of its flowers.
Appearance
Cyrtorchis praetermissa Summerh. is a small to medium-sized epiphytic orchid. It has thick and fleshy stems that can grow up to 50 centimeters. The plant has long, narrow, and leathery leaves that grow in a spiral pattern around the stem.
The flowers of this plant are the most attractive part. They grow in clusters and have a unique shape that resembles a small lantern. The flowers are bright orange to red in color and have a waxy texture. They bloom in the summer and can last for several weeks.
Uses
Cyrtorchis praetermissa Summerh. is primarily used as an ornamental plant due to its attractive flowers. It is commonly grown in greenhouses and gardens around the world.
Additionally, some indigenous cultures in Africa have used this plant for medicinal purposes. It has been used as a treatment for various illnesses and ailments, including fever, stomach issues, and skin conditions.
Light Requirements
Cyrtorchis praetermissa Summerh. plants are epiphytes and require high levels of indirect light. Direct sunlight can cause leaf burn and damage to the plant. Placing the plant near a north or east-facing window with a sheer curtain can provide the necessary light while protecting it from direct sun exposure.
Temperature Range
The ideal temperature range for Cyrtorchis praetermissa Summerh. plants is between 60°F and 80°F. The temperature should not drop below 50°F or exceed 90°F as it can damage the plant. Keeping the plant in a well-insulated room with consistent temperatures is recommended.
Humidity Requirements
Cyrtorchis praetermissa Summerh. plants are native to tropical regions and require high humidity levels. Ideal humidity levels range between 50-70%. Low humidity can cause drying of the leaves, while high humidity can lead to fungal growth. A humidifier or a pebble tray filled with water can be used to increase humidity levels around the plant.
Soil Requirements
Cyrtorchis praetermissa Summerh. plants are epiphytes and do not require soil. Instead, they grow on other plants or objects such as roots or rocks. They prefer a well-draining medium such as sphagnum moss or orchid bark. The planting medium should be kept moist but not waterlogged as it can cause root rot.
Cultivation
Cyrtorchis praetermissa Summerh. is an orchid species that is native to Africa, usually found growing in stony or rocky areas. To cultivate this plant, it is necessary to mimic its natural environment as closely as possible. It requires a warm and humid climate with indirect sunlight. When considering the substrate, it is recommended to use a mixture of sphagnum moss, orchid bark, and perlite. The plant can be grown in a pot, but also can be mounted on a piece of wood or tree fern.
Watering Needs
Watering is crucial for the growth of Cyrtorchis praetermissa Summerh. The plant requires periodic and consistent watering. The substrate must be moist at all times. Watering schedules should also be adjusted according to the environmental conditions. During the summer, it is required to increase the frequency of watering, while in winter, it can be decreased. However, it is important not to let the substrate to dry out completely which may harm the roots of the plant.
Fertilization
Cyrtorchis praetermissa Summerh. requires fertilizers to support its growth. It is advised to fertilize once every two weeks during the growing season, which is from spring to early autumn. It is recommended to use a balanced orchid fertilizer during this period. However, during the winter, it is not necessary to fertilize the plant since it is not in its active growing period.
Pruning
Cyrtorchis praetermissa Summerh. does not need to be pruned regularly. However, it is necessary to trim the plant occasionally. Dead, yellow, or dry leaves and pseudobulbs should be removed from the plant in order to maintain its health and visual appearance. It is also important to avoid over-crowding and to ensure the plant has enough space to grow healthily.
Propagation of Cyrtorchis praetermissa Summerh.
Cyrtorchis praetermissa Summerh., commonly known as the African black orchid, can be propagated using two methods: by division and through seed sowing.
Propagation by Division
Propagation of Cyrtorchis praetermissa Summerh. through division is a reliable and easy method. It is best to divide the plant during its dormant period, usually after it has flowered and its leaves have died back.
To divide the plant, gently remove it from the container and gently separate the pseudobulbs with a sharp, sterile knife. Each pseudobulb should have at least one healthy growth point. Place the divided plant into a new container filled with a well-draining orchid mix, and water thoroughly. Keep the newly divided plant in a warm and humid area and avoid direct sunlight. The plant should form new roots and begin to grow.
Propagation through Seed Sowing
Propagation of Cyrtorchis praetermissa Summerh. through seed sowing involves sowing orchid seeds in a sterile medium and providing them with the right growing conditions.
Collect the seed pods when the capsules have turned brown and have begun to split open. Harvest the seed from the pods and rinse them in water to remove any pulp or debris. Sow the seed in a sterile mix of equal parts sphagnum moss and perlite, and keep the container covered with plastic wrap to maintain high humidity. Place the container in a bright but shaded area, with temperatures between 20 and 25°C. Water and mist the seedlings regularly. After a few weeks, the seedlings should begin to germinate, and in about six months, they should reach a size ready for transplanting.
Disease Management
Cyrtorchis praetermissa Summerh. is a hardy plant, but it can be susceptible to a few diseases if it is not grown in ideal conditions. One of the most common diseases to affect this plant is fungal leaf spots that typically appear as brown or black circular or irregular-shaped spots on foliage. To control fungal leaf spots, it is essential to keep the plant's foliage dry and avoid watering the foliage. Provide proper spacing, ventilation, and avoid over-fertilizing. If detected early, it is recommended to pluck out the affected leaves to prevent the spread.
Another disease that can affect Cyrtorchis praetermissa Summerh. is root rot. The disease is caused by overwatering and poor drainage. Over time, the plant's root will turn brown, mushy, and break off quickly. Plants affected by root rot should be immediately transplanted into new, well-draining soil and avoid overwatering.
Pest Management
Although Cyrtorchis praetermissa Summerh. is a hardy plant, it can be susceptible to pests such as spider mites, aphids, mealybugs, and scale insects. These pests cause damage by sucking sap from the leaves and flowers, resulting in stunted growth and possible deformation of the plant.
Spider mites are a common pest that can cause damage to the foliage of the plant, leaving behind a webbing substance. The best way to manage spider mites is to spray the plant with water regularly to keep the foliage moist. Insecticidal soaps and miticides can also be used to control spider mites effectively.
Aphids are small pear-shaped insects that suck sap from the plant, causing the leaves to curl and distort. It is recommended to hold the plant over a sink or bathtub and rinse it with water to remove aphids. Insecticidal soap or oil spray can also be used to control aphids.
Mealybugs and scale insects will typically appear as white, cottony masses on the leaves and stems. Use a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol to remove mealybugs and scale insects. Horticultural oil can also be used to control the pests.
Regular monitoring of Cyrtorchis praetermissa Summerh. and prompt treatment of any disease or pest problem is essential to keep the plant healthy and thriving.
