Overview
Eulophia subintegra Rolfe, also known as the Autumn Ladies'-tresses, is a species of orchid that is native to several regions in Asia, including China, India, Nepal, and Bhutan. The plant is known for its unique appearance and medicinal properties.
Appearance
The Eulophia subintegra Rolfe plant generally stands at a height of around 35-45 cm. It has a stout and fleshy stem, which is covered with persistent leaf sheaths. The leaves are lanceolate and can grow up to 20 cm in length. The inflorescence is a terminal spike, which produces several flowers that are yellowish-brown in color. The flowers have a distinctive fragrance and are around 1-1.5 cm wide.
Common Names
The Eulophia subintegra Rolfe plant is known by several common names in different regions. In China, it is commonly referred to as Huang Jin Lan or Jin Lan. In India, the plant is known as Alarka or Rato-angrej, while in Bhutan, it is called Jimikarpo. The plant is also known as the Autumn Ladies'-tresses due to its blooming period, which falls during the autumn months.
Uses
The Eulophia subintegra Rolfe plant has several medical uses and is used in traditional medicines in the regions where it is found. The plant has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties and is used to treat various ailments such as fever, dysentery, and inflammation of the eyes. The plant is also believed to have anti-cancer properties and is being studied for its potential use in cancer treatment.
Aside from medicinal uses, the plant is also used in horticulture as an ornamental plant due to its unique appearance and fragrant flowers. The plant is also sometimes used in perfume-making due to its fragrance.
Light Requirements
Eulophia subintegra Rolfe prefers to grow in a place that receives moderate to high light. It requires a minimum of 6 hours of direct sunlight or intense artificial light every day. Insufficient light can lead to stunted growth and fewer flowers.
Temperature Requirements
It is an orchid that thrives well in warm highlands and lowlands. In its natural habitat, it grows well in temperatures ranging from 15 to 32 degrees Celsius. In cooler temperatures, the plant might grow slowly and even experience stunted growth. On the other hand, exposing the plant to prolonged heat can cause dehydration and leaf scorching, resulting in the death of the plant.
Soil Requirements
Proper soil moisture and drainage are essential for the proper growth of Eulophia subintegra Rolfe. The plant prefers a well-draining, nutrient-rich, and neutral soil with a pH of 6.0-7.0. The growing medium should contain a mixture of perlite, vermiculite, peat moss, and orchid bark. These materials provide proper aeration, prevent root rot, and retain the required moisture.
Cultivation Methods
Eulophia subintegra Rolfe is typically grown in medium to large pots or containers and cultivated as a perennial plant. It requires a warm and humid environment, with temperatures ranging from 60°F to 85°F. The plant prefers well-draining soil with a slightly acidic pH and good air circulations.
When growing Eulophia subintegra Rolfe, it is recommended to plant it in a mix of orchid bark, perlite, and sphagnum moss, or any other similar well-drained substrate. The plant should be placed in bright, indirect sunlight and watered regularly.
Watering Needs
Eulophia subintegra Rolfe requires regular watering since the plant prefers to be kept consistently moist, but not wet. Make sure to allow the soil to dry out slightly between watering to avoid root rot. This plant thrives in a humid environment, so misting the foliage or placing a tray of water below the pot can be especially beneficial.
Fertilization
Eulophia subintegra Rolfe requires regular fertilization during the growing season to promote healthy growth and flowering. A balanced, slow-release orchid fertilizer with an NPK ratio of 20-20-20 is recommended. Fertilize the plant monthly during the growing season, reducing the frequency during the rest period. Be careful not to fertilize more than recommended; this can result in root damage and reduced plant health.
Pruning
Pruning Eulophia subintegra Rolfe is not necessary since it is a slow-growing plant. However, it is advisable to remove any dead, damaged, or yellowing leaves or stems if they appear. This helps to maintain the plant's overall appearance and prevent pest or disease problems.
Propagation of Eulophia subintegra Rolfe
Eulophia subintegra Rolfe, commonly known as the Siamese Spicy orchid, is a terrestrial orchid species that grows in South and Southeast Asian countries such as Thailand, Cambodia, Laos, Vietnam, and Myanmar. Propagation of this orchid species is usually done through two methods - division of mature plants and seed propagation.
Division of Mature Plants
Division of mature plants is a common method of propagating the Eulophia subintegra Rolfe orchid species. This method involves dividing the orchid's bulbs from the mother plant and replanting them in separate pots to grow new seedlings. The best time to divide the plant is during its dormancy period when the leaves and flowers have matured, and the plant is preparing for its next growth cycle.
When dividing the orchid, use sharp, sterile tools to cut the bulbs at the base of the mother plant. Make sure each divided bulb has at least one healthy shoot and root system attached to it. The bulbs should be potted immediately in a well-draining soil mix, and watering should be done carefully and sparingly until roots are established.
Seed Propagation
Seed propagation is another method of propagating Eulophia subintegra Rolfe orchids. This method involves collecting mature seed pods from the parent plant, sowing the seeds in a growing medium, and then nurturing them under the right conditions.
When collecting the seed pods from the parent plant, wait until the pods have turned brown and are dry before harvesting them. The individual seeds should be removed from the pod and then placed in a growing medium outdoors/on a greenhouse bed or in a germination chamber. The growing medium should be kept moist but not waterlogged, and a temperature range of 70-80 degrees Fahrenheit should be maintained.
Once the seedlings have sprouted, the growing conditions should be gradually changed to simulate natural conditions. The seedlings should be potted again once they reach a transplantable size, and the required care routines should be provided for them to grow successfully.
Disease and Pest Management of Eulophia subintegra Rolfe
Eulophia subintegra Rolfe, a terrestrial orchid, is susceptible to a range of diseases and pests that can hinder its growth and development. Here are some of the common issues that may affect the plant and how to manage them.
Diseases
Fungal Leaf Spot: This disease is characterized by small brown spots with yellow halos on the leaves. It can occur due to overwatering or poor air circulation. Fungal leaf spot can spread quickly, leading to defoliation, and severe infection can be fatal. To manage this disease, it is crucial to remove infected leaves and ensure the plant receives adequate air circulation and proper irrigation.
Bacterial Soft Rot: Bacterial soft rot is caused by Erwinia carotovora, which infects the plant through wounds. This disease can cause rapid wilting and collapse of the plant. Proper sanitation, including sterilizing tools before use and disposing of infected tissues, can help prevent the spread of bacterial soft rot. If your Eulophia subintegra Rolfe is infected, it is advisable to discard it and not replant in the same location.
Pests
Spider Mites: Spider mites are tiny pests that can cause yellowing of the leaves and a fine webbing on the plant surface. They thrive in hot and dry conditions and can quickly spread to other plants. Regularly misting your Eulophia subintegra Rolfe can help keep spider mites at bay. Using a natural insecticidal soap or neem oil can also be an effective way to manage a spider mite infestation.
Mealybugs: Mealybugs are small white insects that feed on sap from the plant. They excrete a sticky substance that can attract ants and cause leaf yellowing and stunted growth. To manage a mealybug infestation, you can remove them by hand, use a stream of water to dislodge them from the plant surface, or use an insecticidal soap.
Regularly inspecting your Eulophia subintegra Rolfe for signs of diseases or pests can help you manage problems before they become severe. It is also recommended to maintain good hygiene practices and avoid overwatering to keep the plant healthy and strong.
