Origin and Common Names
Dichaelia macra Schltr. is a species of flowering plants in the orchid family, Orchidaceae. It is native to China and can be found in several of its provinces, including Guangdong, Guangxi, Guizhou, and Yunnan. It is commonly known as the "large purple diorchis" or "macra diorchis" in English since its name derives from the Greek word "dis" (two) and "orchis" (testicle), referring to the paired underground tubers of the plant. In China, it is called "Da Zi Lan" in Mandarin Chinese, which means "big purple orchid".
General Appearance
Dichaelia macra Schltr. is a terrestrial herb that typically grows up to 30-60 cm tall. It has an erect stem with a few sheaths located at its base and several lance-shaped leaves that grow up to 10-25 cm long and 1-2 cm wide. The inflorescence typically consists of 3-10 flowers that grow on a long, slender stalk. The flowers are usually dark purple with a tube-shaped lip that measures up to 4 cm long and 1 cm wide. The plants bloom from April to June.
Uses
Dichaelia macra Schltr. is occasionally cultivated as an ornamental plant in China and other countries due to the beauty of its flowers. In traditional Chinese medicine, its tubers are used as a tonic to promote blood circulation and to treat rheumatism, impotence, and other conditions. However, due to habitat destruction and over-collection, the species is now considered endangered and has been listed in Appendix II of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora since 2005, which regulates its international trade.
Growth Conditions for Dichaelia macra Schltr.
Light: Dichaelia macra Schltr. prefers bright, indirect light. Direct sunlight can scorch the leaves, while too little light can result in stunted growth and leaf drop. It is best to place the plant near a window with a sheer curtain or in a well-lit area indoors.
Temperature: Dichaelia macra Schltr. is native to tropical regions and requires warm temperatures to thrive. The plant prefers daytime temperatures between 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F) and nighttime temperatures between 15°C to 20°C (59°F to 68°F). Temperatures below 13°C (55°F) can cause damage to the leaves and slow growth.
Humidity: Dichaelia macra Schltr. prefers high humidity, similar to its natural tropical habitat. It is recommended to keep the plant in a room with a humidifier, place it on a tray of pebbles with water, or mist the leaves regularly to increase humidity levels.
Soil: Dichaelia macra Schltr. requires a well-draining soil mix that is rich in organic matter. The pH level of the soil should be slightly acidic, between 5.5 to 6.5. A good soil mix for Dichaelia macra Schltr. includes peat moss, perlite, vermiculite, and shredded bark.
Water: Dichaelia macra Schltr. requires consistent moisture in the soil, but does not tolerate waterlogged soil. Allow the top inch of the soil to dry out before watering again. It is important to avoid getting water on the leaves, as this can create a humid environment and increase the risk of fungal diseases.
Overall, providing consistent warm temperatures, bright indirect light, high humidity, and a well-draining soil mix can help Dichaelia macra Schltr. thrive indoors.Cultivation methods for Dichaelia macra Schltr.
Dichaelia macra Schltr. is a terrestrial orchid that is found growing in sandy, well-drained soil in its natural habitat. Thus, mimicking this type of soil in the cultivation area can be helpful. The plant requires an environment that receives adequate sunlight and moderate humidity to thrive.
One effective way of cultivation is by propagating the plant through its rhizomes. This approach involves separating a healthy offshoot and repotting it in its growing medium. It is essential to provide enough space for the plant to grow well and keep a constant temperature of about 25?.
Watering needs for Dichaelia macra Schltr.
Dichaelia macra Schltr. requires regular watering to remain healthy and to promote flowering. During watering, it is essential to check that the soil is moist, not too wet, and never dry.
The plant requires frequent watering during the growing season and reduced watering during the dormant period. It is essential to note that the roots of Dichaelia macra Schltr. may rot if there is too much water, so drainage holes are necessary in the pot to allow efficient water drainage.
Fertilization requirements for Dichaelia macra Schltr.
Fertilizing is essential to maintain the health of Dichaelia macra Schltr. It is advisable to use a balanced, water-soluble, full-strength fertilizer that contains trace elements. The plant requires regular feeding during the growing season, about once a month.
Fertilizers should be applied when the plant is not stressed, avoiding direct contact with the foliage or the roots. Over-fertilizing can cause root damage, which can have a negative impact on the plant's health.
Pruning Dichaelia macra Schltr.
Regular pruning is essential in maintaining the plant's health, especially during the dormant season. Pruning can involve removing dead, diseased, and damaged foliage and stems.
During the flowering season, it is essential to remove the spent flowers to allow for new blooms. It is advisable to use a sharp and sterile cutting tool to minimize the risk of infections or diseases.
Propagation of Dichaelia macra Schltr.
Dichaelia macra Schltr., commonly known as the queen of the Andes, is a giant rosette species that is endemic to the high-altitude Andean region of South America. The plant is admired for its stunning size, and it can grow up to 10 feet tall. It is a popular ornamental plant that can serve as an excellent showpiece in botanical gardens or as an impressive focal point in a landscape. Propagation of D. macra Schltr. can be achieved through several methods.
Division
Division is the easiest and most popular propagation method for D. macra Schltr. It involves separating the plant into two or more smaller parts, each of which will develop into a new plant. The best time to perform division is during the early spring when the plant is starting to grow. Use a sharp knife or a spade to cut the plant's roots, making sure to leave at least two or three rosettes on each section.
Seed Propagation
Propagation of D. macra Schltr. through seed is another viable method. Collect the seeds from a mature plant and wash them thoroughly in water. Carefully plant the seeds in a soil mixture composed of sand, perlite, and peat moss, with a ratio of 1:1:1. It is important to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Within one to two weeks, you should see the seeds start to germinate.
Offsets
D. macra Schltr. also produces offsets, or "pups," which can be removed from the mother plant and transplanted into new soil. Allow the pup to develop a few leaves before removing it from the mother plant, taking care not to damage the roots. Transplant the pup into a new pot or location in the garden, where it will grow into a new mature plant.
Overall, D. macra Schltr. is a relatively easy plant to propagate. Whether you prefer the division, seed, or offset method, it is important to give the new plants proper care, including good drainage, adequate sunlight, and consistent watering. With the right conditions and care, the queen of the Andes will thrive and delight garden enthusiasts for years to come.
Disease and Pest Management for Dichaelia macra Schltr.
Dichaelia macra Schltr., also known as Phaius macranthus, is a species of orchid native to Southeast Asia. Like all plants, it is vulnerable to diseases and pests that can damage or kill it. Here are some common issues that may affect Dichaelia macra and how to manage them.
Diseases
Fungal diseases: Dichaelia macra is susceptible to various fungal diseases, including leaf spot, stem rot, and root rot. These diseases thrive in warm, humid conditions and can cause discoloration, wilting, and decay.
Bacterial diseases: Bacterial infections can also affect Dichaelia macra, causing leaf spot, stem rot, and soft tissue decay. These diseases are often spread through contaminated tools or by water splashing from infected plants.
Viral diseases: While less common, viral diseases can also infect Dichaelia macra, causing stunted growth, yellowing, and distorted leaves. These diseases are often transmitted by sap-feeding insects such as aphids or thrips.
To manage these diseases, it's important to maintain good growing conditions and avoid overwatering. Remove any infected plant material and sterilize any tools or surfaces that come into contact with infected plants. Fungicides and bactericides may also be used to prevent or control the spread of these diseases.
Pests
Scale insects: These small, oval-shaped insects attach themselves to the stems and leaves of Dichaelia macra, sucking the sap out of the plant and causing yellowing and wilting. They can be difficult to control as they produce a waxy coating that protects them from contact insecticides.
Spider mites: These tiny, eight-legged pests feed on the sap of the plant, causing yellowing, stippling, and premature leaf drop. They thrive in dry, dusty conditions and can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Thrips: These narrow, elongated insects feed on the leaves and flowers of Dichaelia macra, causing deformities and discoloration. They can also transmit viral diseases. Thrips can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Aphids: These small, soft-bodied insects can be found on the undersides of leaves and on new growth. They suck the sap out of the plant, causing yellowing and wilting. They can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
To manage pest infestations, it's important to regularly inspect your plants and remove any infested material. Introduce natural predators such as ladybugs or lacewings to control the pest population. Insecticidal soap or neem oil can also be used to kill or repel pests.
