Overview
Eulophia sphaerocarpa Sond. is a species of orchid which is native to South Africa. It is a unique and interesting plant known for its medicinal and ornamental value.
Common names
Eulophia sphaerocarpa Sond. is commonly known as the "Green-winged orchid" or "Honey orchid."
Appearance
The plant grows to a height of about 30 cm and has a single leaf that is lance-shaped and about 15 cm long. It produces 1-7 inflorescences that are green with brownish-red markings. The flowers emerge in late spring and early summer, and each has three narrow petals that are greenish-yellow in color. The lip of the flower is yellow and has a deep throat with a spur. When the fruits mature, the capsules are spherical and about 12 mm in diameter.
Uses
The plant is used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments, including coughs, colds, and tuberculosis. It is also believed to have anti-inflammatory properties and is used to treat arthritis. The plant is also used in cosmetic products due to its moisturizing properties. In addition, it is cultivated for its ornamental value and is used as a decorative plant in gardens and as a potted plant indoors.
Light Requirements
Eulophia sphaerocarpa Sond. is an orchid species that requires bright and indirect light for its growth. However, it prefers a shaded area that allows for dappled sunlight to filter through. Direct sunlight can be detrimental to the plant, leading to scorching of its leaves.
Temperature Requirements
The plant thrives well in warm temperatures ranging between 20-28°C (68-82.4°F), with a minimum temperature of 15°C (59°F) at night. It doesn't tolerate freezing temperatures, and exposed to such conditions, the plant may die.
Soil Requirements
The ideal soil for Eulophia sphaerocarpa Sond. should be loose, well-draining, rich in organic matter, and slightly acidic, with a pH of 5.5-6.5. This species does well in soils rich in humus, such as those found in tropical rainforests, which are sandy and loamy.
It is important to note that Eulophia sphaerocarpa Sond. is an epiphytic orchid, i.e., it grows on trees without being parasitic. Therefore, it does not require soil at all. Instead, it can be grown on tree branches, coconut husks, or barks.
Cultivation of Eulophia sphaerocarpa Sond.
Eulophia sphaerocarpa Sond. is a species of orchid that is relatively easy to cultivate and maintain. It is native to South Africa and grows well in warm, sunny conditions.
When planting Eulophia sphaerocarpa Sond., choose a well-draining potting mix that is rich in organic matter. The orchid prefers a slightly acidic soil pH, with a range of 6.0 to 6.5 being optimal. The bulbs should be planted just at or slightly below the soil's surface.
This orchid prefers bright, indirect light, and should be kept in an area that receives plenty of sunlight during the day. It will grow best at temperatures ranging from 65 to 80°F (18 to 27°C).
Watering Needs
Eulophia sphaerocarpa Sond. requires regular watering during its growing season, which is typically from spring to summer. The soil should be kept moist, but not waterlogged. Once the growing season ends, gradually reduce the watering frequency to allow the plant to enter a dormant state.
During the dormant season, which is typically from fall to winter, water the orchid sparingly, allowing the potting mix to dry out slightly between waterings.
Fertilization
Eulophia sphaerocarpa Sond. should be fertilized regularly during the growing season. Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer with a ratio of 20-20-20 or 18-18-18. Dilute the fertilizer to half strength and apply every two weeks during the active growth period. During the dormant season, reduce fertilization to once every four to six weeks.
Pruning
Pruning is not necessary for Eulophia sphaerocarpa Sond. However, if the plant has developed any dry or dead leaves, these can be removed carefully with sterilized tools. Pruning should only be done when necessary and should not be done excessively, as it can harm the plant and stunt its growth.
Propagation of Eulophia sphaerocarpa Sond.
Eulophia sphaerocarpa Sond., commonly known as spherical-fruited eulophia, is propagated through mature seeds and division of rhizomes. It is a terrestrial orchid species that is native to African countries like Angola, Malawi, Mozambique, and Tanzania.
Propagation by Seeds
The spherical-fruited eulophia produces mature seeds within 4-6 months after blooms fade. The mature capsules appear as green, round berries that dry out and split when the seeds are ripe. Propagation by seeds can be achieved through the following steps:
- Collect the capsules or berries when they are about to split or have split already.
- Extract the seeds and remove any debris or immature seeds.
- Sow the seeds onto prepared seed beds containing a suitable soil mix of peat moss and sand or perlite. The ideal pH range is 5.5-6.5.
- Water the bed sufficiently, cover the seeds with a thin layer of sand, and place them in a shaded and humid area.
- After 3-4 weeks, the seeds should start germinating, and they can be moved to a well-drained soil mix with 50% sand and 50% peat moss or growing mix.
- Keep the emerging seedlings moist by watering them regularly, and provide them with adequate light and temperature.
- Transplant the young plants into pots or the ground after the second year or when they have developed at least five leaves.
Propagation by Division of Rhizomes
Division of rhizomes is a common method of propagating the spherical-fruited eulophia. The best time to divide the rhizomes is during the dormant season when new shoots are just starting to emerge. Here are the steps for propagation through rhizome division:
- Dig out the entire clump of eulophia carefully, and remove all the soil from the roots and rhizomes.
- Divide the rhizomes into sections using a sharp and sterilized knife, making sure that each section has at least one vigorous shoot or bud.
- Dust the cut surfaces with fungicide or cinnamon powder to prevent infections.
- Plant each section in a prepared soil mix and water thoroughly.
- Place the newly divided plants in a shaded and humid area until they have established a root system and new growth.
- Transplant the young plants into pots or the ground after the second year or when they have developed at least five leaves.
Disease and Pest Management for Eulophia sphaerocarpa Sond.
Eulophia sphaerocarpa Sond. is a beautiful and hardy orchid species that can be found throughout Africa. Like any plant, it is susceptible to certain pests and diseases, which can damage the plant and reduce yields. Here are some common pests and diseases of Eulophia sphaerocarpa Sond. and their management:
Diseases
One of the most common diseases that affect Eulophia sphaerocarpa Sond. is stem rot. This disease is caused by a soil-borne fungus and can cause the plant to wilt and die. To manage stem rot, it is essential to plant Eulophia sphaerocarpa Sond. in well-draining soil and provide proper watering. Additionally, avoid over-fertilization, as this can encourage the growth of fungi and other pathogens.
Another disease that affects Eulophia sphaerocarpa Sond. is leaf spot. Leaf spot is caused by a fungus and can cause brown or black spots on the leaves of the plant. In severe cases, the leaves may yellow and fall off. To manage leaf spot, remove and destroy any affected plant parts and improve air circulation around the plant by pruning nearby trees and shrubs.
Pests
Eulophia sphaerocarpa Sond. can also attract certain pests, including spider mites and thrips. Spider mites are tiny pests that are difficult to see with the naked eye. They suck sap from the leaves of the plant, causing them to yellow and wither. To manage spider mites, spray the plant with a high-pressure stream of water or use an insecticidal soap.
Thrips are another common pest that affect Eulophia sphaerocarpa Sond. They are small, slender insects that can cause leaves to curl and turn brown. To manage thrips, remove and destroy any affected plant parts and use sticky traps to capture adult thrips.
Overall, ensuring proper plant care, including proper watering and fertilization, can help prevent many of the diseases and pests that affect Eulophia sphaerocarpa Sond. If you notice any signs of disease or pest infestation, act quickly to prevent further damage.
