Introduction
Eulophia orthoplectra (Rchb.f.) Summerh. var. schweinfurthii (Kraenzl.) Geerinck is a terrestrial orchid species that can be found in various parts of Africa. This plant is known for its unique appearance and its varied uses.Origin
Eulophia orthoplectra var. schweinfurthii is native to several countries in Africa, including Ethiopia, Kenya, Sudan, Uganda, and Tanzania. It mainly grows in grasslands, woodlands, and bushes at altitudes of up to 2400 meters above sea level.Common Names
This plant is commonly known as the "Dwarf Star Orchid" due to its small size and star-shaped flowers. It is also referred to as "Eulophia Orchid" and "Schweinfurth's Eulophia".Appearance
Eulophia orthoplectra var. schweinfurthii is a small orchid plant that usually grows up to 20 cm tall. It has a tuberous root system that produces a single erect stem with narrow, lance-shaped leaves that can reach up to 10 cm long. The stem bears small, star-shaped flowers that are yellowish-green in color with reddish spots. The flowers have a nice fragrance and bloom during the late summer season.Uses
The tubers of Eulophia orthoplectra var. schweinfurthii are used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments such as fever, cough, and bronchitis. The plant is also utilized in some African cultures as a source of food, and the flowers are sometimes used in perfumery due to their pleasant scent. Additionally, some gardeners and orchid enthusiasts cultivate this plant as an ornamental species in their gardens or as a houseplant.Light Requirements
Eulophia orthoplectra (Rchb.f.) Summerh. var. schweinfurthii (Kraenzl.) Geerinck prefers bright, indirect sunlight. It requires a minimum of 5 to 6 hours of sunlight daily to thrive. Direct sunlight exposure may result in leaf scorching, whereas insufficient light can lead to stunted growth and weak stems.
Temperature Requirements
The plant prefers warm to hot temperatures and cannot withstand freezing conditions. It thrives in temperatures between 20°C to 35°C. In winter, when temperatures may drop significantly, the plant should be moved to a warmer location or provided with supplementary heat to prevent damage or death.
Soil Requirements
The plant requires well-draining soil with a pH range of 6.0-7.5. Eulophia orthoplectra (Rchb.f.) Summerh. var. schweinfurthii (Kraenzl.) Geerinck prefers soil that is rich in organic matter and has a loamy texture. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged, as excess water can cause root rot and harm the plant.
Cultivation Methods
Eulophia orthoplectra (Rchb.f.) Summerh. var. schweinfurthii (Kraenzl.) Geerinck is an epiphytic orchid that can also grow in soil. Therefore, it is mostly cultivated in a well-drained soilless medium, such as sphagnum moss or a mixture of coconut coir and perlite. It prefers a warm and humid environment with a temperature range of 15°C to 30°C and 70-80% humidity. It can be grown indoors or outdoors in filtered sunlight.
Watering Needs
Proper watering is essential for the healthy growth of Eulophia orthoplectra. It should be watered regularly to keep the medium moist but not waterlogged. The frequency of watering depends on the temperature, humidity, and the type of medium used. It is suggested to water the plant twice a week in warm and dry conditions, while once a week is enough in cooler and humid environments.
Fertilization
Eulophia orthoplectra requires regular fertilization to thrive. Fertilize the plant every two weeks with a balanced 20-20-20 orchid fertilizer during the growing season. In the dormant season, reduce the frequency to once a month. Over-fertilization can damage the roots and affect the overall health of the plant. Therefore, it is suggested to use a diluted fertilizer solution and avoid fertilizing during the dry spell.
Pruning
Regular pruning of Eulophia orthoplectra is important to promote new growth and flowering. After the blooming season, remove the spent flower spikes using a sharp and sterile pair of scissors. Avoid cutting the vegetative growth as it can hamper the plant's ability to photosynthesize. It is also advised to trim off any yellow or diseased leaves to prevent the spread of the disease to the rest of the plant.
Propagation of Eulophia orthoplectra var. schweinfurthii
Eulophia orthoplectra var. schweinfurthii can be propagated through division or seed sowing.
Propagation through division
The best time to divide Eulophia orthoplectra var. schweinfurthii is during the dormant period, which is usually in the fall after the plant has finished flowering. Carefully remove the plant from its pot or the ground, and gently separate the pseudobulbs with their roots attached. Each division should have at least three pseudobulbs with attached roots. Plant each division in a pot filled with a well-drained orchid mix and water thoroughly.
Propagation through seed sowing
Propagation through seed sowing is a more challenging method, but it is the only way to produce a large number of plants. Harvest the mature seed capsules when they turn brown and split open. Sow the seeds immediately in a pot filled with a well-drained orchid mix. Place the pot in a warm and humid location, ideally with a temperature between 70-80°F and high humidity. The seeds should germinate within six months, and the new plants will take several years to mature enough to produce flowers.
Disease Management
Eulophia orthoplectra var. schweinfurthii is susceptible to several diseases that can affect its growth and productivity. Some of the common diseases that might affect this plant include:
- Fungal Leaf Spot: This disease is caused by the fungus Ascochyta that causes brown or black spots on the leaves of the plant. To manage this disease, you should remove the infected leaves and destroy them. You can also use fungicides to control the spread of the disease.
- Anthracnose: This disease is caused by the fungus Colletotrichum that causes leaf spots and blight on the plant. To manage this disease, you should remove the infected leaves and destroy them. You can also use fungicides to control the spread of the disease.
- Bacterial Wilt: This disease is caused by the bacteria Erwinia that causes the plant to wilt and eventually die. To manage this disease, you should remove the infected plant and destroy it. You can also use bactericides to control the spread of the disease.
Pest Management
Eulophia orthoplectra var. schweinfurthii is also susceptible to several pests that can affect its growth and productivity. Some of the common pests that might affect this plant include:
- Mealybugs: These pests suck the sap from the plant, causing stunted growth and yellowing of the leaves. To manage these pests, you can use insecticides or wash them off the plant with a solution of soap and water.
- Aphids: These pests also suck the sap from the plant, causing stunted growth and yellowing of the leaves. To manage these pests, you can use insecticides or wash them off the plant with a solution of soap and water.
- Spider Mites: These pests feed on the leaves of the plant, causing yellowing and webbing. To manage these pests, you can use insecticides or wash them off the plant with a solution of soap and water.
