Origin
Eulophia angolensis (Rchb.f.) Summerh. var. mweruensis (P.J.Cribb) Geerinck, commonly known as Mweru chikanda, is a terrestrial and tuberous orchid species that is indigenous to the central African region. The species is found in Angola, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Congo, Congo DR, Gabon, Malawi, Tanzania, Zambia, and Zimbabwe. The plant grows in a wide range of habitats, including savannahs, riverine forests, and grasslands.
Common Names
Eulophia angolensis (Rchb.f.) Summerh. var. mweruensis (P.J.Cribb) Geerinck is commonly known as Mweru chikanda in Zambia. It is also known by other local names such as Mugumo and Mubilongo in Congo, and Nsangu, Kitobo, and Chipamfuli in Zambia.
Uses
Eulophia angolensis (Rchb.f.) Summerh. var. mweruensis (P.J.Cribb) Geerinck has a variety of uses in traditional medicine across the region where it is found. The plant is believed to have anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and antipyretic properties, and is used to treat a variety of ailments, including snake bites, fever, and rheumatism. The tubers of the plant are used as a source of food in some areas, particularly during times of food scarcity.
General Appearance
Eulophia angolensis (Rchb.f.) Summerh. var. mweruensis (P.J.Cribb) Geerinck is a terrestrial orchid that grows up to 50 cm in height. The plant has a single stem that is covered with lanceolate leaves that are 25-50 cm long and 3-6 cm wide. The inflorescence is a terminal raceme that can be up to 30 cm long and contains up to 30 flowers. The flowers are showy and have a wide range of colors, including brown, yellow, pink, and purple. The species is unique in that it produces small tubers underground that are used for both medicinal and edible purposes.
Light Requirements
Eulophia angolensis (Rchb.f.) Summerh. var. mweruensis (P.J.Cribb) Geerinck grows best in bright, indirect sunlight. It can tolerate some shade but should not be placed in direct sunlight. Inadequate light can lead to stunted growth or no growth at all.
Temperature Range
The ideal temperature range for Eulophia angolensis (Rchb.f.) Summerh. var. mweruensis (P.J.Cribb) Geerinck is between 18°C and 24°C. This orchid cannot tolerate cold temperatures and should be kept away from cold draughts. It may go dormant during the winter months with the onset of cool temperatures.
Soil Requirements
Eulophia angolensis (Rchb.f.) Summerh. var. mweruensis (P.J.Cribb) Geerinck prefers well-draining soils with a slightly acidic to neutral pH range (6.0 to 7.5). It needs a substrate that retains moisture but does not remain overly wet for an extended period. A mix of coarse sand, bark, and peat moss provides a suitable growing medium.
Cultivation Methods for Eulophia angolensis (Rchb.f.) Summerh. var. mweruensis (P.J.Cribb) Geerinck
Eulophia angolensis (Rchb.f.) Summerh. var. mweruensis (P.J.Cribb) Geerinck is a terrestrial orchid that thrives in well-drained soils and requires a good amount of sunlight. It can be grown outdoors if you live in a hot and humid region or indoors in a greenhouse.
The plant prefers to grow in mild temperatures and requires humidity in the range of 50-70%. It can be propagated through rhizomes, and it is relatively easy to grow if the correct care is provided.
Watering Needs for Eulophia angolensis (Rchb.f.) Summerh. var. mweruensis (P.J.Cribb) Geerinck
Eulophia angolensis (Rchb.f.) Summerh. var. mweruensis (P.J.Cribb) Geerinck requires regular watering, especially during the growing season. The plant should be watered every three to four days, and the soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged.
It is essential to avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot and kill the plant. Make sure that the plant is not exposed to standing water, and the container should have proper drainage holes at the bottom.
Fertilization of Eulophia angolensis (Rchb.f.) Summerh. var. mweruensis (P.J.Cribb) Geerinck
Eulophia angolensis (Rchb.f.) Summerh. var. mweruensis (P.J.Cribb) Geerinck requires regular fertilization during the growing season. A balanced liquid fertilizer of 10-10-10 or 20-20-20 can be applied twice a month to promote healthy growth.
Avoid using fertilizer during the dormant season, as the plant does not require additional nutrients during this time. Follow the instructions on the fertilizer package carefully, and dilute it to half the strength to avoid burning the roots.
Pruning of Eulophia angolensis (Rchb.f.) Summerh. var. mweruensis (P.J.Cribb) Geerinck
Eulophia angolensis (Rchb.f.) Summerh. var. mweruensis (P.J.Cribb) Geerinck does not require much pruning, as it does not produce a lot of foliage. However, dead leaves and stems should be removed regularly to prevent them from attracting pests or pathogens and promoting healthy growth.
If the plant has become too large for its container, it can be divided during the dormant season to allow for more root space and promote new growth.
Propagation of Eulophia angolensis var. mweruensis
Eulophia angolensis var. mweruensis can be propagated in various ways. Here are some of the most common methods:
Division
The easiest way to propagate Eulophia angolensis var. mweruensis is through division. This method involves separating the plant into smaller sections, each with its own set of roots and leaves. It is best to do this in early spring or late autumn. To divide the plant, gently lift it from the ground and use a sharp, clean knife or garden shears to cut the root ball into smaller pieces. Each piece should have at least one healthy shoot. Plant the new sections in fresh soil, making sure the roots are well covered. Water thoroughly and keep in a warm, shaded area until new growth appears.
Seed propagation
Eulophia angolensis var. mweruensis will produce seed pods that can be used for propagation. Once the seed pod has turned brown and becomes dry and brittle, it should be harvested. Remove the seeds from the pod and soak them in warm water for several hours. Sow the seeds in a mixture of equal parts sand and compost. Keep the soil moist and warm, around 25°C (77°F), and under indirect light. The seeds should sprout within 4-6 weeks.
Tissue culture
Tissue culture of Eulophia angolensis var. mweruensis is a method of propagation used to produce many genetically identical plants. This technique is suitable for orchids that do not produce enough seeds or require special care to germinate. Tissue culture involves taking a small piece of plant tissue and growing it in a sterile environment using a growth medium containing all necessary nutrients. Several plants can be produced from a single piece of tissue. This method, however, is best left to experts or professionals in a more sophisticated setting.
Disease and Pest Management for Eulophia Angolensis var. Mweruensis
Eulophia angolensis (Rchb.f.) Summerh. var. mweruensis (P.J.Cribb) Geerinck is generally a hardy plant with few disease and pest problems. However, it is still important to be aware of potential risks and take appropriate measures to prevent or manage them.
Common Diseases
The most common disease affecting Eulophia angolensis var. mweruensis is fungal infection. The most common fungal diseases causing damage to the plant are Fusarium wilt and root rot. Symptoms of Fusarium wilt include yellowing and wilting leaves, stunted growth, and poor flower formation. Root rot is characterized by a decay of the roots and a general wilting of the plant.
To prevent fungal infection, it is important to ensure that the soil is well-draining to avoid the development of waterlogged conditions in which fungi thrive. Avoid over watering the plant and use fungicides, like copper fungicides, to prevent fungal spores from spreading or taking hold on the plant.
Common Pests
One of the main pests that affects Eulophia angolensis var. mweruensis is the presence of the mealybug. Mealybugs are small, soft-bodied insects covered with a white, powdery substance. They feed on plant sap and can weaken the plant by stunting its growth and causing deformations.
To control mealybugs, use an insecticidal soap or neem oil and spray directly on the affected areas to kill the insects. Another option is to introduce beneficial insects, such as ladybugs or lacewings, which will feed on the mealybugs, reducing their number.
Conclusion
Eulophia angolensis var. mweruensis is a relatively low-maintenance plant. By following simple precautions like ensuring the soil is well-draining and monitoring your plant for signs of pests and diseases, you can help to ensure that it remains healthy and beautiful.
