Overview of Eulophia bilamellata Schltr.
Eulophia bilamellata Schltr., commonly known as the Two-ridged Leaf Eulophia, is a terrestrial orchid belonging to the family Orchidaceae. It is a perennial herb that is endemic to the African continent, with a wide distribution range that includes Angola, Botswana, Mozambique, Namibia, South Africa, Zambia, and Zimbabwe.
Appearance
The plant typically grows up to 60 cm tall, with a single stem that is cylindrical and unbranched. The leaves are alternate and elliptic in shape (10-20 cm long and 4-5 cm wide), with a glossy green surface and prominent parallel veins. The inflorescence is a loosely arranged raceme with 6-20 flowers, each flower being 1-1.5 cm long and 1-1.5 cm wide. The petals and sepals are similar in appearance and are a pale yellow-green in colour. The lip (labellum) is larger than the other petals and has a distinctive two-lobed structure, with a yellow-orange centre surrounded by dark purple streaks. The flowers have a sweet, fruity scent that attracts pollinators.
Uses
Eulophia bilamellata Schltr. has various traditional uses across Africa. In Namibia, the plant's roots are used in traditional medicine as a treatment for stomach ailments, fever, and headaches. In South Africa, the dried tubers are ground into a powder and used as a perfume. The plant is also used by some communities as a charm to protect homes from evil spirits.
In addition to its traditional uses, Eulophia bilamellata Schltr. is also cultivated as an ornamental plant, due to its attractive and unusual flowers. It can be grown in a well-draining potting mix and requires warm temperatures (20-30°C) and bright, indirect light.
Light Requirements
Eulophia bilamellata Schltr. is a species of orchid that prefers bright, but indirect, sunlight. It is often found growing in the dappled shade of trees in its natural habitat. While it can tolerate some direct sunlight, too much can cause damage to its leaves and flowers.
Temperature Requirements
Eulophia bilamellata Schltr. grows well in warm temperatures between 20°C to 30°C. It is however, tolerant of slightly cooler temperatures, as long as it is not exposed to frost or freezing conditions. In addition, it is important to note that fluctuating temperatures or extreme temperature changes may lead to stunted growth or poor health of the plant.
Soil Requirements
Like most orchids, Eulophia bilamellata Schltr. has specific soil requirements in order to thrive. It needs a well-draining medium that provides adequate moisture and nutrients. A mixture of coarse bark, perlite, and charcoal provides a good balance of drainage and water retention. The plant's roots are highly sensitive to stagnant water, so it is important to avoid overwatering.
Cultivation Methods
Eulophia bilamellata Schltr., commonly known as the two-leaved Eulophia, is a terrestrial orchid species that requires specific conditions for proper growth. It thrives in warm, humid climates with ample sunlight and well-draining soil rich in organic matter. The plant can be propagated from seeds or through the division of bulbs.
Watering Needs
Watering is a crucial aspect of caring for Eulophia bilamellata Schltr., and it's essential to maintain proper moisture levels. The plant needs to be watered consistently, but the frequency varies depending on the environmental conditions. During the growing season, the soil should be kept moist, but not waterlogged. In contrast, during the dormant season, watering should be reduced considerably.
Fertilization
Fertilization is an excellent way to boost the plant's growth and increase flower production. Eulophia bilamellata Schltr. requires fertilization throughout the growing season. A balanced fertilizer with an N-P-K ratio of 20-20-20 or 18-18-18 is ideal. Fertilizers should be applied once every two weeks and diluted to half strength. Avoid fertilizing during the dormant season as it can damage the plant.
Pruning
Pruning is not necessary for Eulophia bilamellata Schltr. The plant has a self-sustaining growth habit and does not require regular pruning. However, during the dormant season, dead or yellowing leaves and stems should be removed to maintain the plant's appearance. When pruning, it's necessary to sanitize the tools used to prevent the spread of infections.
Propagation of Eulophia bilamellata Schltr.
Eulophia bilamellata Schltr. can be propagated through different methods. The most common ones are:
Division ofrhizomes
The propagation of Eulophia bilamellata Schltr. through division of rhizomes is the easiest and fastest method. This is best done during the dormant period, which is typically after the blooming season.
To do this, carefully remove the plant from its container or garden bed and gently separate the rhizomes with a pair of sterilized scissors or knife. Each division should have at least two or three healthy-looking pseudobulbs and some roots attached.
Plant each division into a pot or garden bed filled with a well-draining soil mix and water thoroughly. Provide the newly potted plants with bright, indirect light and maintain consistent moisture levels.
Seeds
Propagation of Eulophia bilamellata Schltr. through seeds is a bit challenging due to its slow germination process, but it is a cost-effective way to increase plant numbers.
To obtain seeds, use a sterile sharp knife to cut the matured seed pods when they turn brown or yellow. Remove the seeds from the pods and rinse them with a fungicide solution to avoid fungal infection.
The seeds should be sown immediately into a well-draining soil mix and covered with a thin layer of fine sand. Water the pot thoroughly and cover it with a plastic sheet or a propagator lid to maintain the humidity levels.
Place the pot in a bright, warm spot, maintaining the temperature between 21 to 26°C, and avoid direct sunlight. The seeds will take several weeks to months to germinate. Once the seedlings have two or three leaves, transplant them individually into pots or garden beds.
Keikis
Propagation through keikis is a less commonly used method, but it is an effective way to replicate the parent plant's characteristics.
Keikis are small plantlets that grow from the parent plant's stem near the base. To propagate Eulophia bilamellata Schltr. through keikis, wait until they reach a suitable size, then carefully cut them away from the parent plant. Each keiki should have at least one pseudobulb, a root or two, and a few leaves.
Plant the keiki into a pot or garden bed filled with a well-draining soil mix and water thoroughly. Place the pot in a shaded spot to help the keiki adjust to transplant shock. Provide bright, indirect light, and maintain consistent moisture levels.
Propagation through division of rhizomes is the quickest way to get your Eulophia bilamellata Schltr. plant growing. However, it is always fun to experiment with different propagation techniques that can lead to exciting new plants!
Disease and Pest Management for Eulophia bilamellata Schltr.
Eulophia bilamellata Schltr., a terrestrial orchid species, is usually tolerant to pests and diseases, which makes it a low-maintenance plant. However, the following are some common pests and diseases that might affect the species and how to manage them:
Pests
1. Aphids: Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that suck up sap from plants, causing wilting, yellowing, and stunting of growth. To control them, wipe the affected parts of the plant with a damp cloth or spray insecticides that contain neem oil, insecticidal soap, or pyrethrin.
2. Snails and slugs: Snails and slugs nibble on the leaves and stems of plants, leaving holes and trails behind. Spread diatomaceous earth around the base of the plants or use bait traps to catch them. Alternatively, remove them by hand or use an iron phosphate-based bait.
3. Spider mites: Spider mites are tiny pests that cause the leaves to appear dusty and stippled, leading to their yellowing and dropping. Use a strong blast of water to wash off the mites or use neem oil or insecticidal soap or pyrethrin-based insecticides to control them.
Diseases
1. Root rot: Root rot is caused by overwatering or poorly-draining soil, resulting in the plant's roots becoming mushy and dark-colored, causing the plant to wilt, turn yellow, and eventually die. To control root rot, reduce watering and improve drainage by using a well-draining potting mix.
2. Leaf spot: Leaf spot is characterized by the appearance of small, brownish-black circular spots on the leaves of the plant, leading to their wilting and dropping. To control leaf spot, avoid overhead watering, improve air circulation, and apply a fungicide that contains mancozeb or copper-based compounds.
3. Stem rot: Stem rot is caused by bacteria or fungi and is characterized by the wilting and collapse of the plant's stems. To control this disease, remove the affected parts of the plant and apply a fungicide that contains copper-based compounds.
Proper cultural practices, including good sanitation, regular inspection of plants, and removal of dead or decaying plant residues, can help prevent pests and diseases from affecting Eulophia bilamellata Schltr. By following the above suggestions, gardeners can help their terrestrial orchids remain healthy and problem-free.
