Overview
Eulophia eylesii Summerh. var. eylesii is a species of orchid that is native to Africa. It is commonly known as the African ground orchid, Eyles' Eulophia, or the scentless butterfly orchid.
General Appearance
This plant typically grows between 20-50 cm tall and has thin, erect stems. It has long, narrow, and smooth leaves that can grow up to 40 cm long and 1.5 cm wide. The flowers of Eulophia eylesii Summerh. var. eylesii are purple, pink, or white in color, and arranged in a cluster at the top of the stem. Each flower has a long spur at the base that contains nectar, attracting insects for pollination.
Uses
Eulophia eylesii Summerh. var. eylesii has several uses in traditional African medicine. The plant is believed to have antioxidant properties and is used to treat various ailments such as coughs, colds, and throat infections. It has also been used topically to treat cuts, wounds, and skin infections. In addition, the plant has cultural significance and is used in traditional rituals and ceremonies.
Beyond traditional medicine, Eulophia eylesii Summerh. var. eylesii is also grown as an ornamental plant for its beautiful flowers. It thrives in warm and humid environments and can be grown in a pot or in the ground as long as it is protected from direct sunlight.
Growth Conditions for Eulophia eylesii Summerh. var. eylesii
Eulophia eylesii Summerh. var. eylesii is native to southern Africa and is commonly found in grassland or rocky areas. Here are some typical growth conditions for this plant:
Light Requirements
Eulophia eylesii Summerh. var. eylesii prefers bright, filtered light. It should be grown in semi-shaded areas to avoid direct sunlight. However, it should still receive enough light to allow for photosynthesis.
Temperature Requirements
This plant can tolerate a wide range of temperatures, but does best in warmer conditions. The ideal temperature range for Eulophia eylesii Summerh. var. eylesii is 20-25°C (68-77°F) during the day and 14-18°C (57-64°F) at night.
Soil Requirements
When planting Eulophia eylesii Summerh. var. eylesii, it is important to consider the soil composition. This plant prefers soil that is well-draining and slightly acidic. A recommended soil mix for this plant would be 50% peat moss, 25% perlite, and 25% pine bark. It is also beneficial to add some organic fertilizer to the mix.
Watering Requirements
Eulophia eylesii Summerh. var. eylesii requires regular watering, but make sure not to over-water it. It is best to allow the soil to dry slightly before re-watering. Over-watering can lead to root rot and other plant diseases.
Air Humidity Requirements
This plant prefers moderately humid conditions. Ideal humidity levels for Eulophia eylesii Summerh. var. eylesii are between 40-60%. To maintain the right humidity levels, misting the plant regularly or placing it in a tray of pebbles with water can help.
Fertilizer Requirements
It is recommended to fertilize Eulophia eylesii Summerh. var. eylesii every 2-3 weeks during the growing season. Use a balanced liquid fertilizer and dilute it to half-strength. Avoid fertilizing during the winter months.
Cultivation
Eulophia eylesii Summerh. var. eylesii can be grown in a greenhouse or outdoors in a tropical or subtropical climate. It prefers well-drained soil, with a pH between 5.5 and 6.5. The plant needs partial shade to full sun exposure and requires protection from strong winds and frost. When planted outdoors, it grows well in a mixture of loam, peat, and sand.
Watering Needs
The plant requires regular watering during the growing season, from spring to autumn. A general rule is to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. The frequency of watering depends on the temperature, humidity, and size of the plant. During winter, reduce water intake and let the plant rest. Always avoid overhead watering because it can promote disease and cause crown rot.
Fertilization
Eulophia eylesii Summerh. var. eylesii requires regular fertilization during the growing season. Fertilize the plant every two weeks using a balanced liquid fertilizer with lower nitrogen (N) and higher phosphorus (P) and potassium (K) ratios. Reduce the frequency of feeding during winter. Always dilute the fertilizer to half its strength before applying.
Pruning
Eulophia eylesii Summerh. var. eylesii doesn't require frequent pruning, but it benefits from deadheading. Remove spent blooms and yellowing leaves using sterilized pruners. Prune the plant after the blooming season or when necessary to remove damaged or diseased foliage. Always clean the pruners with a disinfectant solution after every use.
Propagation of Eulophia eylesii Summerh. var. eylesii
Eulophia eylesii Summerh. var. eylesii can be propagated through either seed or vegetative methods.
Seed Propagation
The plant produces seed pods that can be collected once they have matured. The pods should be allowed to dry out before opening them to extract the small, black seeds. The seeds should be stratified before planting by storing them in the refrigerator for several weeks. After stratification, the seeds should be sown in a well-draining soil mix, covered lightly with soil, and kept moist but not waterlogged. Germination may take several weeks to several months and can be improved with the use of bottom heat.
Vegetative Propagation
Eulophia eylesii Summerh. var. eylesii can also be propagated through division of the tuberous roots. The plant should be dug up in the dormant season, and the tuberous roots can be carefully divided into sections, making sure each section has several viable growing points. The divided sections can be planted in a well-draining soil mix, covered with soil, and kept moist. It may take several weeks for new shoots to emerge, and care should be taken to avoid overwatering or fertilizing during this time.
Disease Management for Eulophia eylesii Summerh. var. eylesii
Eulophia eylesii Summerh. var. eylesii is not particularly susceptible to common plant diseases, but it can still be affected by a few. A consistent and effective disease prevention strategy is the best way to keep your plants healthy.
Some of the diseases that may affect the plant include:
- Leaf spots: This disease is caused by fungal pathogens, and symptoms include black, brown, or yellow circular spots on the leaves. Avoid splashing water on the leaves and maintain proper air circulation to prevent leaf spot. Infected leaves must be removed and destroyed.
- Rust: Rust causes pimple-like protrusions on the leaves which later break and discharge rust colored spores. The use of chemical fungicides is the most effective way of treating the problem. Proper sanitation, such as removing and destroying diseased leaves, helps slow the spread of rust.
- Crown rot: Crown rot affects the base of the plant and is caused by soil-borne fungi. Symptoms include wilting and yellowing of the leaves. The affected plant should be removed and destroyed to prevent further spread. Additionally, improve soil drainage, use sterilized soil, and avoid overwatering to prevent crown rot.
Pest Management for Eulophia eylesii Summerh. var. eylesii
The following are the pests that may affect Eulophia eylesii Summerh. var. eylesii and some effective ways to manage them:
- Mealybugs and scale insects: These pests cause plant stress and can spread diseases. Use insecticides as directed on the label to control these pests.
- Spider mites: Spider mites create webbing on the plant and cause yellow spots on the leaves. Use insecticidal soap or a strong blast of water to control spider mites. Apply the pest control product according to the manufacturer's instructions.
- Thrips: Thrips feed on the leaves and flowers of plants, causing them to become distorted. Use insecticides or sticky traps to control thrips.
