Overview
Eulophia paivaeana (Rchb.f.) Summerh. subsp. borealis Summerh., also known as Northern Eulophia, is a flowering plant that belongs to the family Orchidaceae. It is native to the African continent and is a perennial herb.
Common Names
The plant is commonly known as the Northern Eulophia.
Appearance
The Northern Eulophia plant grows up to 60 cm tall. It has a bulbous root system that helps in water storage. It produces up to 10 narrow leaves that grow up to 30 cm in length and are arranged in a fan shape. The flowers are arranged in loose inflorescences that bloom from August to October. The individual flowers are greenish-yellow and have a tubular shape.
Uses
The Northern Eulophia plant has various traditional medicinal uses. The plant's bulbs are boiled and used to treat stomach ailments such as diarrhea and dysentery. The roots are also used to make tea that is believed to have anti-inflammatory properties. The plant is also used as an ornamental plant due to its attractive flowers.
Growth conditions for Eulophia paivaeana subsp. borealis Summerh.
Light: The plant prefers bright but filtered light to thrive. Direct sun exposure should be avoided as it can scorch the leaves and flowers.
Temperature: Eulophia paivaeana subsp. borealis Summerh. grows well in warm temperatures between 20-32°C. The plant cannot tolerate frost and will not survive if subjected to temperatures below 10°C for prolonged periods.
Soil: This orchid requires well-draining soil. A mixture of peat moss, sand, and perlite should provide the ideal conditions for healthy growth. Additionally, the plant prefers slightly acidic soil with a pH range of 5.5–6.5.
Water: The plant requires regular watering, but the soil must not be waterlogged at any time. The frequency of watering depends on the temperature and humidity levels. During the growing season, the orchid should be watered when the top layer of soil is dry to the touch. In winter, watering should be reduced to prevent rotting of the roots.
Fertilizer: Eulophia paivaeana subsp. borealis Summerh. requires regular fertilization during the growing season. Suitable fertilizers include a balanced fertilizer diluted to half strength or an orchid-specific fertilizer. Avoid overfertilizing, as it can cause damage to the roots and foliage.
Humidity: The orchid prefers high humidity to grow well. The humidity level should be around 60-80%. If the humidity is low, it can be increased by placing a tray of water under the plant or by using a humidifier.
Propagation: The plant can be propagated by dividing the rhizomes during the dormant season. Ensure that each division has at least one healthy pseudobulb and a few roots. The new divisions should be planted in a suitable potting mix and kept in bright but filtered light until new growth is observed.
Cultivation
Eulophia paivaeana (Rchb.f.) Summerh. subsp. borealis Summerh. is commonly grown as a terrestrial orchid and is native to sub-Saharan Africa. It can be grown in a pot or in the ground, provided the soil is well-drained, and it can tolerate a variety of temperatures, from cool to hot and humid conditions.
If grown in a pot, use a well-draining orchid potting mix that contains bark chips, perlite, and peat moss. The pot should have drainage holes to avoid waterlogging the roots.
If grown in the ground, ensure the soil has good drainage and is rich in organic matter, like compost, to keep the plant healthy.
Watering
Watering should be done regularly but cautiously to prevent waterlogging, as this can cause root rot. Water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry and ensure the soil is well-drained by checking the drainage holes.
During the growing season, water the plant more frequently, possibly every two to three days, but in the dormant season, reduce the frequency of watering, giving enough water to avoid the soil from totally drying out.
Fertilization
Applying a balanced fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season will provide the plant with sufficient nutrients for healthy growth. A 10-10-10 balanced fertilizer will suffice and can be mixed with water before applying to the plant. Ensure that the fertilizer is not applied to the leaves but directly to the soil around the base of the plant to avoid chemical burns.
Pruning
Eulophia paivaeana (Rchb.f.) Summerh. subsp. borealis Summerh. does not require regular pruning as it is a slow-growing plant. However, pruning can be done to remove dead or diseased leaves, which can attract pests and diseases.
When pruning, use sterilized pruning shears to avoid spreading diseases, and ensure the cuts are made near the base of the plant to avoid leaving any stumps that can lead to rotting.
Propagation of Eulophia paivaeana (Rchb.f.) Summerh. subsp. borealis Summerh.
Eulophia paivaeana (Rchb.f.) Summerh. subsp. borealis Summerh. can be propagated through various methods. However, the two most commonly used methods are by seed and by dividing the rhizomes.
Propagation by Seed:
The easiest way to propagate Eulophia paivaeana (Rchb.f.) Summerh. subsp. borealis Summerh. is by using its seeds. The best time to sow seed is usually in the spring or summer. Sowing seed too early could result in reduced germination rates and increased susceptibility to damping-off disease. Fresh seeds should be cleaned and soaked in water for up to 24 hours before sowing. Afterward, they can be sown in a seed tray or individual pots. Cover the seeds with a thin layer of soil and place the container in a warm, bright location. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Germination usually takes one to two months, after which young plants can be transplanted into larger pots or directly into the garden.
Propagation by Division:
Propagation by dividing the rhizomes is another common method used to increase the number of plants. This method is usually done in the spring when new growth begins to emerge. Locate the rhizomes of mature plants and carefully divide them into sections with a sharp, sterile knife. Each section should have at least one healthy growing point and some roots attached. After dividing, replant the sections in fresh, well-draining soil. Eulophia paivaeana (Rchb.f.) Summerh. subsp. borealis Summerh. likes a lot of room for its roots to grow, so ensure the spacing between each section is enough to accommodate growth.
Disease Management
Eulophia paivaeana is vulnerable to a range of plant diseases. Some common diseases that can affect the plant include leaf spot, fungal rots, and viral infections. Here are some ways to manage these diseases:
- Leaf spot: Leaf spot is a fungal disease that appears as small dark spots on the leaves. Cut off the infected leaves and remove them from the area. Make sure to disinfect your tools to avoid spreading the disease. Use a fungicide to treat the plant.
- Fungal rots: Fungal rots are caused by waterlogged conditions in the soil. Improve the drainage of the soil by adding organic matter, and avoid overwatering. Remove the affected parts of the plant, and use a fungicide to treat the plant.
- Viral infections: Viral infections cannot be treated with chemicals. Remove and destroy the infected plant parts, and isolate the plant from others to avoid spreading the disease.
Pest Management
Eulophia paivaeana is also susceptible to pest infestations, which can seriously damage the plant. Here are some common pests that might attack the plant:
- Spider mites: Spider mites are tiny, spider-like insects that feed on the plant's juices. They can cause yellowing of the leaves and stunted growth. Use a neem oil spray to treat the plant.
- Caterpillars: Caterpillars can eat through the leaves and stems of the plant, causing extensive damage. Remove them manually or use a pesticide.
- Snails and slugs: Snails and slugs can eat through the leaves and flowers of the plant. Use a copper-based pesticide to repel them, or set up beer traps to attract and trap them.
Regular monitoring of the plant can help prevent pest and disease infestations. Maintain a healthy environment for the plant by providing adequate sunlight, water, and nutrients. This will strengthen the plant's natural defenses against pests and diseases.
