Origin
Eulophia clitellifera (Rchb.f.) Bolus is a terrestrial orchid that is native to South Africa, Eswatini, and Lesotho.
Common Names
The plant is commonly known as the Long-tongued Eulophia or the Rooitong.
Appearance
The Long-tongued Eulophia is a deciduous perennial herb that can grow up to 60cm tall. It has long, narrow, and arching leaves that grow from a pseudobulb. The leaves are about 15-25cm long and 2-3cm wide. The inflorescence is tall and slender and may produce up to 20 flowers. The flowers are small and greenish-yellow, with long petals that curve backward and a lip that is purple-brown with yellow markings. The plant blooms from late summer to early autumn.
Uses
The Long-tongued Eulophia has ornamental value, and it is commonly grown as an ornamental plant in gardens and parks. In traditional medicine, the plant is used to treat various ailments, including stomach problems, headaches, and snakebites. The pseudobulbs of the plant are used in traditional medicine to make an ointment used to treat skin diseases like eczema.
Light requirements
Eulophia clitellifera is a plant species that thrives in brightly lit areas. It prefers direct sunlight but can also survive in partial shade without any significant problems. The plant requires a minimum of 6 hours of direct sunlight exposure daily to stimulate growth. It is essential to ensure that the plant receives adequate sunlight and avoid shading by other big trees that might block the sunlight.
Temperature requirements
Eulophia clitellifera thrives best in warm temperatures ranging from 20-30 degrees Celsius. Temperatures that are too high or too low can negatively affect the plant's growth and development. The plant cannot tolerate frost and must be grown in areas that are not susceptible to frost. It is crucial to maintain the correct temperatures to ensure optimal growth and development of Eulophia clitellifera.
Soil requirements
Eulophia clitellifera grows well in well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. The plant is not specific to the soil type and can grow in various soil types such as clay, loam, or sand. The soil must be fertile and hold enough moisture to support the plant's growth. It is advisable to incorporate organic matter into the soil to enhance its fertility and structure, leading to better water retention and aeration.
Cultivation methods
Eulophia clitellifera demands a tropical to the subtropical favorable environment. The orchid grows best in humid rainforest areas with well-draining soil. It thrives best in a frequently watered and aerated medium, such as a mixture of charcoal, bark, and sphagnum moss. This plant prefers a partially shaded spot, which receives bright indirect sunlight, making it a suitable plant for under-canopy planting in a woodland garden.
Watering Needs
Eulophia Clitellifera requires well-drained soil that is kept slightly moist all the time, making sure it is not watered excessively. The plant should be watered when the top 1-2 inches of soil become dry, and it is advisable to use collected rainwater for irrigation as it has no salts. Overwatering this terrestrial orchid can cause rotting of the roots and lead to the death of the plant.
Fertilization
The plant can be fertilized every two weeks with a balanced, diluted orchid fertilizer to enhance its growth and flowering. Application of a balanced slow-release fertilizer is also ideal for the preparation of the plantation for optimum growth. However, fertilizers must be used cautiously, and it is beneficial to avoid over-fertilizing the terrestrial orchid since this may burn the roots of the plant.
Pruning
Eulophia clitellifera pruning is minimal, as the plant does not have many leaves or flowers. Only dead or damaged parts should be pruned from the plant. Ensure that pruning tools are sterilized before use to avoid the spread of diseases from one part of the plant to another. The plant does not require any special treatment to flower and has a relatively long flowering period; therefore, it is a cost-efficient plant to cultivate.
Propagation Methods
Eulophia clitellifera (Rchb.f.) Bolus can be propagated through different methods, including division, seed sowing, and tissue culture.
Division
The division of the plant's pseudobulbs is the simplest method of propagation and is typically performed during the repotting of the mother plant. The pseudobulbs should have healthy roots and be mature enough to produce new shoots.
To divide the pseudobulbs, the clump is separated into sections, and each section should have at least two to three pseudobulbs and their associated roots. The divisions are then planted directly into pots with a suitable potting mix.
Seed Sowing
Eulophia clitellifera can also be propagated through seed sowing. The seeds are produced inside a capsule that splits open when mature, releasing numerous tiny seeds. The seeds can be sown on the surface of a fine mix composed of peat moss, perlite, and sand.
It is essential to keep the seeds moist but not waterlogged until they germinate. The seeds usually take four to six weeks to germinate, and after germination, the seedlings should be gradually moved to a higher light environment.
Tissue Culture
Tissue culture is an advanced propagation method that allows for the mass production of plants. The process involves sterilizing and propagating small pieces of the plant (i.e., meristems) in a controlled environment.
This method can produce identical offspring with desirable qualities. It requires specialized expertise and equipment and is typically used by nurseries and botanical gardens.
Disease and Pest Management for Eulophia clitellifera (Rchb.f.) Bolus
Eulophia clitellifera, also known as the Tubby Eulophia, is an orchid species commonly found in Africa. Although this plant is relatively hardy, it is still susceptible to certain diseases and pests that can affect its growth and survival.
Common Diseases
One of the most common diseases that can affect Eulophia clitellifera is fungal infections, particularly during periods of high humidity. These infections can cause wilting, yellowing, and browning of the leaves, as well as stem and root rot. To prevent such infections, it is important to provide good air circulation, avoid overcrowding the plants, and maintain proper watering and fertilization practices.
Another disease that can affect Eulophia clitellifera is viral infections, which can cause mosaic patterns on the leaves and stunted growth. Unfortunately, there is no cure for viral infections, so it is best to prevent them by practicing good sanitation and avoiding the use of contaminated tools or equipment.
Common Pests
Eulophia clitellifera is also susceptible to certain pests, including mealybugs and spider mites. Mealybugs are small, white, fluffy insects that feed on the sap of the plant, causing wilting and yellowing of the leaves. They can be controlled by using neem oil, insecticidal soap, or rubbing alcohol to kill the bugs and their eggs.
Spider mites are tiny, spider-like pests that also feed on the sap of the plant, causing yellowing and bronzing of the leaves. They can be controlled by spraying the plant with soapy water or insecticidal soap, or by introducing natural predators like ladybugs or lacewings.
Management Strategies
Prevention is the best strategy when it comes to managing diseases and pests in Eulophia clitellifera. By maintaining good hygiene practices, providing proper growing conditions, and monitoring the plants regularly for signs of trouble, you can prevent many of the issues that can affect this plant. If you do notice signs of disease or infestation, act quickly to contain the problem before it spreads to other plants. Use natural or chemical treatments as needed, and always follow the instructions carefully to avoid harming the plant or the environment.
Overall, with proper care and attention, Eulophia clitellifera can thrive and produce beautiful, healthy blooms for many years to come.
