Overview
Eulophia reichenbachiana Bolus, also known as the Southern Green Orchid, is a species of flowering plant within the family Orchidaceae. This plant is native to various parts of Southern Africa, such as Zimbabwe, Mozambique, and South Africa.
Common Names
Aside from being called Southern Green Orchid, this plant also goes by several other common names such as.
- Khusi (Venda)
- Indula (Zulu)
- Inguduza (Xhosa)
Appearance
The orchid grows up to 25-70 cm tall with a bulbous base. It has thin, light green leaves that grow up to 25 cm long and 2 cm wide. The leaves have pointed tips and are arranged in a rosette pattern. The plant's stem is slender and green, with white striations running up its length. Eulophia reichenbachiana blooms from late spring to early summer, producing pale green flowers that are roughly 2 cm across.
Uses
The Southern Green Orchid has a variety of uses in traditional medicine. The plant's bulb is used in some traditional practices as a treatment for snake bites, while the plant's roots are believed to help with asthma and stomach problems. The plant is also used to make traditional beer in some areas of South Africa.
However, this plant is considered endangered, and there are strict regulations on how it's harvested and traded. So it's crucial to avoid picking or reducing its natural habitat.
Light Requirements
Eulophia reichenbachiana Bolus is a sun-loving plant that requires bright, direct sunlight to flourish. A location that receives at least 6 hours of sunlight a day is ideal for healthy growth. Therefore, it is best to grow Eulophia reichenbachiana Bolus in areas that get lots of sunshine.
Temperature Requirements
This plant is native to South Africa and can tolerate a wide range of temperatures. However, it thrives best in warm temperatures, ideally, between 75 - 85°F (24 - 29°C). This range provides the plant with an ideal environment to grow quickly and healthily. Eulophia reichenbachiana Bolus can tolerate temperatures as low as 55°F (13°C) and as high as 95°F(35°C).
Soil Requirements
This plant prefers well-draining soils with medium moisture content, and it doesn't like to sit in waterlogged soil. A mixture of topsoil, peat moss, and sand or perlite can be used to make a well-draining soil mix for this plant. This soil mix has a pH range of 6.0 to 7.0, which is slightly acidic to neutral. A balanced slow-release fertilizer should be added to the soil mix during the growing season to provide the necessary nutrients for healthy growth.
Cultivation Methods for Eulophia reichenbachiana Bolus
Eulophia reichenbachiana Bolus is a terrestrial orchid that requires a well-draining soil mix. To successfully cultivate this plant, it is best to plant it in a pot with a mix of perlite, bark, and sphagnum moss. The plant prefers bright, indirect light and should be placed in a spot that receives morning sun.
Watering Needs for Eulophia reichenbachiana Bolus
Eulophia reichenbachiana Bolus require consistent moisture levels. The plant should be kept evenly moist but not soaked. Watering once or twice a week is usually sufficient, but this schedule may need to be adjusted depending on the humidity levels and temperatures in your growing area.
Fertilization for Eulophia reichenbachiana Bolus
Eulophia reichenbachiana Bolus requires a balanced fertilizer with an equal ratio of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Apply the fertilizer once a month during the active growing season. It is important to use a diluted solution to avoid burning the roots.
Pruning for Eulophia reichenbachiana Bolus
Eulophia reichenbachiana Bolus does not require much pruning. Remove any yellow or withered leaves as soon as possible to prevent the spread of disease. The stems may also need to be trimmed occasionally if they become too long or start to bend under the weight of the plant.
Propagation of Eulophia reichenbachiana Bolus
Eulophia reichenbachiana Bolus is an orchid species indigenous to South Africa. It is commonly known as the African swamp orchid. This plant is fairly easy to propagate, and there are a few tried and tested methods for doing so.
Division
The most common method for propagating African swamp orchids involves dividing the root system. This method typically occurs after the plant has established a substantial root system, which typically takes two years. The best time to divide the root system is either in the spring when the plant starts actively growing, or just after the growing season. Dividing a plant should be done with great care as it can damage the roots if not done correctly. It is best to first untangle any roots that are intertwined before cutting them with a sterilized pair of scissors. It is then recommended to let the divisions dry for a day or two before potting them.
Seed Propagation
Propagation can occur through seed, which can be sown either by plantlets or by tissue culture. This method involves inoculating the seed with the proper nutrients it requires for growth within a growth medium. It is highly recommendable to seek the help of professionals if one intends to propagate the plant through seed. It is best done in sterile conditions.
Offshoots
Eulophia reichenbachiana Bolus can also be propagated by offshoots. The plant develops offshoots or keikis from the base of the main stem. These can develop into fully mature plants if they are separated and potted accordingly. The process is straightforward, but it needs to be done with extreme care.
Whichever propagation method you choose, proper care should be exercised to enable the plant to thrive. Propagating plants should be done in a sterile environment to prevent infections, and the success of propagation is also reliant on the appropriate care and cultural practices employed by the grower.
Disease and Pest Management for Eulophia reichenbachiana Bolus Plants
Eulophia reichenbachiana Bolus is a beautiful terrestrial orchid variety that is native to South Africa. This rare and exotic plant is often grown by orchid enthusiasts and collectors. Like all plants, Eulophia reichenbachiana Bolus is susceptible to various diseases and pests. Therefore, it is essential to take proper care of the plant and protect it from pests and diseases. Here is a guide to the diseases and pests that affect Eulophia reichenbachiana Bolus and the methods of preventing or managing them:
Common Diseases of Eulophia reichenbachiana Bolus Plants
Eulophia reichenbachiana Bolus plants can get infected by various fungal and bacterial diseases. The most common diseases that affect this orchid are:
- Black Rot: This is a severe fungal disease that affects the roots and leaves of the plant. It is caused by the fungus Pythium ultimum. The infected plant shows black spots and decaying of roots.
- Crown Rot: This is another fungal disease that affects the base of the plant. It is caused by the fungus Phytophthora cactorum and can cause the plant to wilt, yellow and eventually die.
- Brown Spot: This is a bacterial disease that affects the leaves of the plant and results in the formation of brown spots.
Pest that Affect Eulophia reichenbachiana Bolus Plants
Several pests can infect Eulophia reichenbachiana Bolus plants. The most common pests that affect this plant are:
- Thrips: This pest feeds on the flowers and leaves of the plant. It causes the leaves to turn yellow and can lead to the death of the plant.
- Spider Mites: These are tiny pests that feed on the sap of the plant. They cause the leaves to become yellow and eventually fall off.
- Scale Insects: These pests suck the sap of the plant and cause it to become weak. The plant may produce sticky honeydew, which attracts ants.
Disease and Pest Prevention and Management
The following are the methods for preventing and managing diseases and pests that infect Eulophia reichenbachiana Bolus plants:
- Proper sanitation: Make sure to keep your plants clean and healthy. Remove dead plant material and avoid overwatering.
- Isolation: Keep your Eulophia reichenbachiana Bolus plant away from other plants, which can be a source of fungal and bacterial diseases.
- Application of Fungicides and Pesticides: Apply fungicides and pesticides to protect the plant from diseases and pests. It's essential to use a safe and effective fungicide or pesticide that is suitable for orchids and will not harm the plant.
- Maintain Humidity and Temperature: The ideal humidity and temperature for Eulophia reichenbachiana Bolus plants are 70-80% RH and 65-70°F. Maintain optimum humidity and temperature levels to prevent fungal growth.
- Regular Inspection: Inspect your plant regularly and carefully. Look for any signs of pests or diseases and take action promptly.
By regularly practicing these management techniques, it is possible to keep your Eulophia reichenbachiana Bolus plants healthy and free from pests and diseases.
