Introduction
Eulophia seleensis (De Wild.) Butzin var. tenuiscapa (Schltr.) Geerinck is a species of orchid native to tropical regions of Africa and Madagascar. It is commonly known as the slender-stemmed Eulophia or, in some areas, as Butzin's Eulophia.
Origin
The Eulophia seleensis (De Wild.) Butzin var. tenuiscapa (Schltr.) Geerinck is native to Africa. It is commonly found in countries such as Angola, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Democratic Republic of Congo, Gabon and Uganda. It also grows in Madagascar.
Common Names
The Eulophia seleensis (De Wild.) Butzin var. tenuiscapa (Schltr.) Geerinck is commonly known as the slender-stemmed Eulophia or Butzin's Eulophia. In Central and West Africa, it is known by various local names.
Appearance
The Eulophia seleensis (De Wild.) Butzin var. tenuiscapa (Schltr.) Geerinck is a terrestrial orchid that can reach a height of up to 1 meter. It has long, thin stems and narrow leaves. The flowers are small and pale yellow or green in color, with red or purple markings. The plant blooms from summer to fall.
Uses
Due to its distinctive appearance, the Eulophia seleensis (De Wild.) Butzin var. tenuiscapa (Schltr.) Geerinck is highly sought after in the international orchid trade. In some parts of Africa, the plant is used for medicinal purposes. The leaves are used to treat wounds and the roots are used to treat stomach ailments.
The Eulophia seleensis (De Wild.) Butzin var. tenuiscapa (Schltr.) Geerinck is also used in traditional medicine to boost the immune system, improve digestion, and relieve pain. Additionally, it is used in cultural ceremonies in some African countries.
Growth Conditions for Eulophia seleensis var. tenuiscapa
Eulophia seleensis var. tenuiscapa is a terrestrial orchid naturally found in tropical regions of Africa. It is important to provide optimal growth conditions to ensure that the plant thrives in a cultivated setting.
Light Requirements
Eulophia seleensis var. tenuiscapa requires bright, indirect light for optimum growth. It should be placed in a location that receives at least 6 hours of indirect sunlight per day. However, direct sunlight can damage the leaves and should be avoided.
Temperature Requirements
The ideal temperature range for Eulophia seleensis var. tenuiscapa is between 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F). The plant can tolerate temperatures outside of this range, but growth will be stunted. It is essential to maintain a consistent temperature for the orchid to thrive.
Soil Requirements
Eulophia seleensis var. tenuiscapa requires a well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A mixture of potting soil, sphagnum moss, and perlite would be suitable. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged. It is important to allow excess water to drain properly to prevent the roots from rotting.
Cultivation Methods
Eulophia seleensis (De Wild.) Butzin var. tenuiscapa (Schltr.) Geerinck is a terrestrial orchid that requires a well-drained substrate, such as sand, peat moss, and perlite. It grows best in warm and humid conditions with partial shade. This orchid prefers an environment with temperatures ranging from 18°C to 30°C.
Watering Needs
The Eulophia seleensis (De Wild.) Butzin var. tenuiscapa (Schltr.) Geerinck orchid requires regular watering to maintain the substrate's moisture level. It is advised to water the orchid once or twice a week, depending on the weather conditions and the substrate's humidity. It would be best if you allowed the substrate to dry between waterings to avoid root rot.
Fertilization
The Eulophia seleensis (De Wild.) Butzin var. tenuiscapa (Schltr.) Geerinck orchid requires nutrients to grow and bloom. You should fertilize this orchid once a month with a balanced fertilizer, such as a 20-20-20 mixture, during the growing season. During the dormant season, reduce the fertilization frequency to every six to eight weeks.
Pruning
The Eulophia seleensis (De Wild.) Butzin var. tenuiscapa (Schltr.) Geerinck orchid requires regular pruning to maintain its shape. You should prune the orchid's stem and remove any dead, yellowing, or damaged leaves. Also, remove any spent flowers to encourage the growth of new flowers. It is best to prune the orchid after it has finished blooming.
Propagation methods for Eulophia seleensis var. tenuiscapa
Eulophia seleensis var. tenuiscapa can be propagated by two methods, namely:
1. Seed propagation
The seeds of Eulophia seleensis var. tenuiscapa can be collected during the flowering season. The seeds should be sown immediately after collection to prevent them from losing viability. The following steps can be taken for successful seed propagation:
- Prepare a well-draining potting mix consisting of equal parts of peat moss and vermiculite.
- Sow the seeds on the surface of the potting mix, ensuring that they are not buried.
- Water the potting mix regularly to keep it moist but not waterlogged.
- Place the pot in a warm, bright, and humid environment, such as a greenhouse.
- Seed germination may take between 4 to 6 weeks.
2. Division propagation
Division propagation is another method for propagating Eulophia seleensis var. tenuiscapa. The following steps can be taken for successful division propagation:
- Carefully remove the plant from the pot or garden bed and gently shake off excess soil.
- Using a sharp and sterile knife, divide the plant into smaller sections, making sure that each section has at least one pseudobulb and a healthy root system.
- Replant the divided sections in well-draining potting mix consisting of equal parts of peat moss and vermiculite.
- Water the potting mix regularly to keep it moist but not waterlogged.
- Place the pot in a warm, bright, and humid environment, such as a greenhouse.
- The newly divided plants should start producing new growth within a few weeks.
Disease Management
Eulophia seleensis (De Wild.) Butzin var. tenuiscapa (Schltr.) Geerinck is a hardy plant that is generally resistant to most diseases. However, it may occasionally be affected by the following:
1. Fusarium wilt
Fusarium wilt is a fungal disease that causes wilting, yellowing, and death of the plant. In severe cases, it can kill the entire plant. The best way to manage this disease is to remove and destroy infected plants immediately to prevent the disease from spreading. Also, avoid planting Eulophia seleensis (De Wild.) Butzin var. tenuiscapa (Schltr.) Geerinck in soil previously used to cultivate susceptible plants.
2. Leaf spot
Leaf spot is a fungal disease that causes the leaves to develop brown, black, or gray spots. Severe infections can cause leaf drop and weaken the plant. To manage leaf spot, remove and destroy infected leaves immediately to prevent the disease from spreading and avoid planting in areas of high humidity or moisture.
3. Root rot
Root rot is a fungal disease that causes the plant's roots to decay, leading to stunted growth, yellowing, and wilting. To manage root rot, avoid overwatering and ensure the soil is well-draining. Also, remove and destroy infected plants immediately to prevent the disease's spread.
Pest Management
Eulophia seleensis (De Wild.) Butzin var. tenuiscapa (Schltr.) Geerinck is also generally resistant to most pests. However, it may occasionally be affected by the following:
1. Mealybugs
Mealybugs are small, soft-bodied insects that typically infest the plant's leaves and stems. They excrete honeydew, which attracts ants and promotes fungal growth. To manage mealybugs, remove and destroy affected plant parts and apply insecticidal soap or neem oil on remaining plants.
2. Spider mites
Spider mites are tiny pests that suck the sap out of plant leaves, causing a stippled appearance. Severe infestations can lead to leaf drop and plant death. To manage spider mites, remove and destroy affected leaves and apply insecticidal soap or neem oil on remaining plants.
3. Snails and slugs
Snails and slugs are mollusks that feed on the plant's leaves and stems, causing irregular holes and damage. To manage snails and slugs, handpick and remove them from the plant and surrounding areas. You can also use copper tape or barriers to prevent them from accessing the plant.
