Origin
Diporochna membranacea (Oliv.) Tiegh. is a plant species that belongs to the family Melastomataceae. The plant is native to the Cameroonian rainforest region of West Africa.
Common Names
The plant is commonly known as 'Ukonkwo', 'Apukwu', 'Ntumbwi', 'Efufu', and 'Bongwe' by the local people of Cameroon.
General Appearance
The plant is a small shrub that grows up to 3 meters high, with slender and flexible stems. It has simple, alternate, and ovate leaves that are about 7-15 cm long and 3-10 cm wide. The leaves are slightly hairy, with a matte green color on the upper surface and a light green color on the lower surface. The plant produces small, delicate, and pink flowers that are about 3-5 mm in diameter. The flowers are arranged in clusters and appear at the tips of the stems and branches. The plant produces small, round, and black-colored fruits that are about 2-3 mm in diameter.
Uses
The plant is used in traditional medicine in Cameroon to treat various health conditions such as stomach problems, diarrhea, and headache. The leaves of the plant are used to make a decoction that is consumed orally. The plant is also used as a natural pesticide against insects that attack vegetable crops. Additionally, Diporochna membranacea is used as an ornamental plant in gardens and landscapes due to its attractive appearance.
Light Requirements
Diporochna membranacea is a shade-loving plant that thrives in bright but indirect sunlight. Direct sunlight can harm the plant, so it is recommended to place it in a shaded area that receives partial sunlight. If the plant is grown indoors, it should be placed near a window that receives indirect sunlight for several hours a day.
Temperature Requirements
The optimal temperature range for the growth of Diporochna membranacea is between 15 and 25°C (59 and 77°F). The plant can tolerate slightly cooler temperatures, but prolonged exposure to temperatures below 10°C (50°F) may damage the plant's leaves. Similarly, exposure to temperatures above 30°C (86°F) can cause the plant to wilt and suffer heat stress.
Soil Requirements
Diporochna membranacea prefers well-draining, slightly acidic soils with a pH range between 5.5 and 6.5. It is important that the soil is not waterlogged as the plant is susceptible to root rot, which can be lethal. A mixture of peat moss, sand, and perlite can create a suitable soil mixture for the plant. The plant benefits from regular fertilization with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season.
Cultivation methods
Diporochna membranacea, also known as the Himalayan slipper orchid, is a terrestrial orchid that is generally easy to grow, and prefers a shady, cool, and moist environment. It can be grown in pots or in the garden, in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
In pots, use a potting mix that is specifically formulated for orchids, and choose a pot that is slightly larger than the plant’s current pot. It’s essential to ensure that the pot you use has good drainage, as orchids are susceptible to root rot if their roots are left in standing water. For outdoor cultivation, choose a spot in the garden that receives partial shade and has well-draining soil.
Watering needs
The watering needs of Diporochna membranacea are relatively high, and it’s crucial to maintain a consistent level of moisture in the soil. It’s recommended to water the plant at least once or twice a week, depending on the season and the humidity levels in your area.
When watering, it’s vital to ensure that the water reaches the plant’s roots. Keep in mind that Diporochna membranacea doesn’t like to be waterlogged, so don’t overwater it. In the winter, reduce watering and allow the soil to dry out a little between waterings.
Fertilization
Diporochna membranacea benefits from regular fertilization, which promotes healthy growth and flowering. Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer that is formulated for orchids and dilute it to half strength. Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season, from spring to fall.
During the winter, reduce fertilization and only feed the plant every six to eight weeks. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can lead to root burn and other issues.
Pruning
Diporochna membranacea doesn’t require much pruning, but it’s recommended to prune away any yellow or damaged leaves as soon as they appear. Also, after the plant has finished flowering, remove the spent flower spikes to encourage new growth.
If you grow the plant in pots and it starts to outgrow its container, repot it in the spring, just before the growing season begins. Remove any dead or rotting roots and ensure that the new pot is only slightly larger than the previous one.
Propagation of Diporochna membranacea
Diporochna membranacea (Oliv.) Tiegh. is a shrub that could be propagated through various methods such as seeds, cuttings, and layering.
Seed Propagation
Seeds are the easiest and most common method to propagate Diporochna membranacea. Harvest ripe fruits, then wash them to remove the pulpy material. Sow the seeds immediately since they lose viability quickly. The ideal germination medium is a mixture of loamy soil and sand. After sowing, cover the seeds with a thin layer of the same soil mixture. Keep the soil moist by watering with a fine nozzle. Germination usually happens within two weeks.
Cutting Propagation
Diporochna membranacea can also be propagated through cuttings. Semi-hardwood stem cuttings taken from healthy parent plants in the early autumn or spring can be used for this method. Cuttings should measure four to six inches in length, with at least three nodes. Remove the bottom leaves and cut the upper leaves in half to reduce transpiration. Dip the lower part of the cutting in rooting hormone, then plant the cutting in a rooting medium consisting of a mixture of sand, peat moss, and vermiculite. Keep the rooting medium moist and warm (25-30°C) until roots develop, then gradually lower the temperature.
Layering Propagation
Layering is another method to propagate Diporochna membranacea. Choose a low hanging stem and make a notch or wound on the bark, just below a node. Then, bend the stem and cover the wounded area with soil. Water the soil frequently to keep it moist. After roots develop from the notch, sever the new plant from the parent plant.
Disease Management
Diporochna membranacea is susceptible to several fungal diseases, including leaf spot, powdery mildew, and root rot. To manage these diseases, it is important to maintain good sanitation practices by removing any infected plant debris from the area and to avoid wetting the leaves when watering. Fungicides can be used to treat infected plants, but it is important to carefully follow the instructions on the product label.
Pest Management
The plant may be attacked by several pests, including spider mites, scale insects, and mealybugs. Infestations can be controlled by regularly inspecting plants and removing any infested parts. Insecticidal soap or neem oil can also be used to treat infested plants. It's best to avoid using broad-spectrum insecticides as they can harm beneficial insects that help control pest populations. Natural predators like ladybugs and lacewings can be introduced to the area to help control pest populations.
