Introduction
Eulophia wakefieldii (Rchb.f. & S.Moore) Summerh. is a terrestrial orchid that belongs to the family Orchidaceae. It is a rare species found in the African countries of Cameroon, Gabon, Ghana, and Nigeria.General Appearance
The plant has a pseudobulbous stem that grows to a height of 50-110 cm. The leaves are deciduous, lanceolate, and grow from the pseudobulbs. Each pseudobulb produces 1-3 leaves that are up to 35 cm long and 5 cm wide. The inflorescence is a raceme that grows up to 100 cm long and produces up to 100 flowers. The flowers are large, showy, and light yellow in color. The plant blooms from May to July.Common Names
The plant is commonly known as Wakefield's Eulophia.Uses
The tuber of Eulophia wakefieldii is used in traditional medicine for the treatment of various ailments such as dysentery, diarrhea, and gonorrhea. The plant is also used in African traditional rituals as an aphrodisiac. In conclusion, Eulophia wakefieldii is a rare orchid species native to African countries. It has a pseudobulbous stem, large showy flowers, and lanceolate leaves. The plant is commonly known as Wakefield's Eulophia and is used for traditional medicinal purposes and African traditional rituals.Light Requirements
Eulophia wakefieldii requires bright and indirect light. It grows well in partial to full shade, but direct sunlight must be avoided. Placing the plant near a window that receives a considerable amount of sun is ideal. However, it must be shielded from the sun's direct rays.
Temperature Requirements
The ideal temperature range for Eulophia wakefieldii is between 18°C to 30°C. The plant cannot tolerate extreme temperatures and must be kept away from drafts. A consistent temperature range will ensure healthy growth and flowering of the plant.
Soil Requirements
Eulophia wakefieldii grows well in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter, such as sphagnum moss. The soil PH should be slightly acidic, with a range between 5.5 to 6.5. The plant also requires good air circulation to prevent root rot and fungal attacks. It is advisable to repot the plant every two years or when its roots fill the pot.
Cultivation methods
Eulophia wakefieldii is an orchid species that thrives in a warm and humid environment. It grows best in a potting mix that is made up of bark, perlite, and charcoal. It requires a well-draining soil mixture that is kept consistently moist.
When planting Eulophia wakefieldii, it is important to select a pot that is the appropriate size for the plant. It prefers a snug fit, so the pot should be just a bit larger than the roots. The plant should be potted with the rhizome at or slightly above the soil line.
Watering needs
Eulophia wakefieldii requires consistent and frequent watering. It should be watered when the top inch of soil has become dry. It can quickly suffer from drought, so it is important to keep the soil moist at all times.
When watering, it is important not to get water on the leaves or in the crown of the plant, as this can cause rot.
Fertilization
Eulophia wakefieldii should be fertilized regularly during the growing season. A balanced fertilizer with equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium is ideal. It should be used according to the manufacturer's instructions and applied every two weeks.
During the winter, when the plant is dormant, fertilization should be reduced or stopped altogether.
Pruning
Eulophia wakefieldii does not require extensive pruning. In fact, the plant prefers to be left alone as much as possible. The only necessary pruning would be to remove any dead or yellowed leaves, or to trim back any brown or withered flower spikes.
When pruning, it is important to use sterilized tools to avoid spreading diseases or infections.
Propagation of Eulophia wakefieldii
Eulophia wakefieldii can be propagated both sexually and asexually. Sexual propagation involves the use of seeds while asexual propagation involves vegetative methods such as division and backbulb propagation.
Seed propagation
The seed propagation method of Eulophia wakefieldii involves the collection of mature seed pods. The mature seed pods are harvested when they turn brown and begin to split open. The seeds are then extracted and sown in a suitable potting medium.
The potting medium should be free-draining and ideally contain a mixture of coarse sand, bark chips, and perlite. The seeds should be sown about 1 cm deep and watered well. The pot should then be covered with a clear plastic bag or placed in a propagator and kept in a warm, well-lit area (about 20-30°C).
The seeds should start to germinate within 4-6 weeks. Once the seedlings reach a suitable size (about 4 cm high with 2-3 leaves), they can be transplanted to individual pots or planted directly in the ground.
Vegetative propagation
Eulophia wakefieldii can also be propagated through vegetative methods such as division and backbulb propagation.
Division involves separating the parent plant into smaller sections and planting them separately. It's best to do this in the spring or late summer. Care should be taken to ensure each divided section has enough roots and new growth to sustain itself.
Backbulb propagation involves the use of small bulbs or "backbulbs" that form on the parent plant. These backbulbs can be removed and planted in a suitable potting medium. They should be covered lightly with soil and kept in a warm, well-lit area (about 20-30°C). They should start to produce new growth within a few weeks.
Overall, Eulophia wakefieldii can be propagated fairly easily using either sexual or asexual methods.
Disease and Pest Management of Eulophia wakefieldii
Eulophia wakefieldii is a beautiful orchid species that can thrive in a wide range of conditions. However, like all other plants, it can also be affected by pests and diseases. Here are some of the common diseases and pests that can affect this plant and the ways to manage them:
Diseases
Fungal diseases
Fungal diseases are common in orchids, and Eulophia wakefieldii is no exception. Fungal infections can lead to leaf spots, stem rot, and root rot.
To manage fungal diseases, you should ensure that the plant is not overwatered and has good air circulation. Avoid getting the leaves and stem wet, and remove any infected plant parts with a sterilized utensil. You can also use fungicides to control fungal growth, but be sure to follow the instructions carefully.
Viral diseases
Viral infections are difficult to manage in orchids and can lead to stunted growth, flower deformities, and yellowing of the leaves. Once a plant is infected, it cannot be cured.
The best way to manage viral infections is to prevent them from spreading. Ensure good hygiene practices, such as sterilizing utensils and avoiding contact with other infected plants. If you suspect a plant is infected, remove it from the rest of your orchids to prevent the spread of the virus.
Pests
Mites
Mites are tiny arachnids that can cause damage to the leaves and flowers of the Eulophia wakefieldii. The common signs of mite infestation include yellow spots, curling leaves, and webbing on the plant.
To manage mites, you can wash the plant with mild soap and water or use an insecticidal soap. You can also release predatory mites that feed on the pest mites.
Scale insects
Scale insects are sap-sucking insects that attach themselves to the stem, leaves, and flowers of the plant. They can cause the leaves to turn yellow and drop off.
To manage scale insects, you can use a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol to wipe the insects off the plant. You can also use insecticides, but make sure to follow the instructions carefully.
Mealybugs
Mealybugs are soft-bodied insects that feed on the sap of the Eulophia wakefieldii. They can cause the leaves to become distorted and the flowers to drop off.
To manage mealybugs, you can wash the plant with mild soap and water or use an insecticidal soap. You can also use predatory insects, such as ladybugs, to control the mealybug population.
By following the above pest and disease management practices, you can ensure the health and longevity of your Eulophia wakefieldii orchid.
