Origin:
Eunanus kelloggii Curran ex Greene var. parviflorus (Greene) Jepson, commonly known as the Sierra bog orchid, is a plant species native to the Western United States. It can be found in California, Nevada, and Oregon.
Common Names:
The Sierra bog orchid, as mentioned earlier, is the most common name used for this plant. It is also known as Kellogg's bog orchid or the Small-flowered bog orchid.
Uses:
The Sierra bog orchid is used for ornamental purposes only and is not harvested or utilized in any other way. It is commonly grown by orchid enthusiasts, and its understated yet elegant flowers make it an attractive addition to any garden or terrarium.
General Appearance:
The Sierra bog orchid has a simple yet exquisite aesthetic. Its slender, pale-green stems stand at around 10-30 cm tall and typically have two broad, oval-shaped leaves. The plant's small flowers grow on a spike, with each spike bearing five to fifteen flowers that measure between 5-15 mm wide. The flowers are white in color and have small purple spots on the lip. Its roots are white, fleshy and have short hairs.
Light Requirements
Eunanus kelloggii var. parviflorus prefers full sun to partial shade conditions. The plant requires a minimum of six hours of direct sunlight per day to grow optimally. It can tolerate some shade, but too much shade may lead to stunted growth and reduced flowering.
Temperature Requirements
Eunanus kelloggii var. parviflorus is native to California's high elevations, where temperatures can range from hot summers to cold winters. The plant thrives in moderate temperatures between 50 to 80°F. If the temperature drops below freezing point or rises above 100°F, it can cause severe damage to the plant.
Soil Requirements
The plant prefers well-drained, sandy to loamy soil with a pH range of 6.0-7.5. It can also tolerate clay soils if well-drained. Eunanus kelloggii var. parviflorus prefers slightly acidic soils that are rich in organic matter. The plant has moderate water needs and requires watering only when the top 2-3 inches of soil are dry.
Cultivation methods
Eunanus kelloggii Curran ex Greene var. parviflorus (Greene) Jepson, commonly known as the dwarf eunanus, is a perennial herbaceous plant that requires well-drained soil and ample sunlight. For a successful cultivation, it is crucial to prepare the soil before sowing the seeds or transplanting young plants. Loosen the soil to allow proper root development and add organic matter to improve nutrition and drainage.
Watering needs
The dwarf eunanus plant prefers moderate watering, with an optimal balance between moisture retention and soil drainage. The best practice is to water deeply, saturating the soil to the root level, and then allowing the top inch of the soil to dry out before watering again. This watering method helps prevent root rot and encourages healthy growth. It is advisable to reduce watering in winter when the plant is dormant.
Fertilization
To ensure healthy growth, regular fertilization is vital. Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer to the soil before planting and then every two to three months during the growing season. Alternatively, you can use organic fertilizers such as compost, manure, or mulch, which also replenish soil nutrients and improve soil structure. Avoid over-fertilization, as it can cause the plant to produce excessive foliage and fewer flowers.
Pruning
The dwarf eunanus plant does not require extensive pruning, but it benefits from occasional trimming to remove dead or damaged leaves and flowers. Pruning also helps maintain an attractive plant shape and promotes bushy growth. The best time to prune is in early spring or after flowering. Use clean and sharp pruning tools to make clean cuts and prevent the spread of disease.
Propagation of Eunanus kelloggii Curran ex Greene var. parviflorus (Greene) Jepson
Propagation of Eunanus kelloggii Curran ex Greene var. parviflorus (Greene) Jepson can be done through various methods that include seed, cuttings, and division. Below are the propagation methods:
Seed propagation
Seed propagation is the most common method for propagating Eunanus kelloggii Curran ex Greene var. parviflorus (Greene) Jepson. The seeds are sown in a well-drained soil mixture and kept in a warm, bright place. Seed germination usually takes between three to four weeks.
Cutting propagation
Cutting propagation is also a popular method for propagating Eunanus kelloggii Curran ex Greene var. parviflorus (Greene) Jepson. Cuttings should be taken in the spring when there is new growth. Cuttings should be approximately four inches in length and should be taken from non-flowering shoots. The cuttings should be placed in a well-draining soil mixture.
Division propagation
Division propagation involves dividing the plant into two or more sections and planting them separately. This method is best done in the spring when new growth is beginning to appear. Care should be taken not to damage the roots when dividing the plant as this can cause shock and may reduce the plant's ability to grow and establish itself.
Disease Management
Eunanus kelloggii Curran ex Greene var. parviflorus (Greene) Jepson, also known as Kellogg's eunanus, is a relatively disease-resistant plant. However, like any living organism, it is still susceptible to some diseases.
One common disease that can affect the plant is powdery mildew. It is a fungal disease that appears as a white, powdery substance on the leaves and stems of the plant. To prevent powdery mildew, you can prune any affected leaves and stems, apply fungicides, and make sure the plant is not overcrowded to promote proper air flow.
Another disease that can impact Eunanus kelloggii Curran ex Greene var. parviflorus is root rot, a fungal disease that develops in waterlogged soils. To avoid root rot, ensure that the soil is well-drained and avoid over-watering the plant.
Pest Management
While not generally prone to pest infestations, Eunanus kelloggii Curran ex Greene var. parviflorus can still attract some pests.
One pest that might affect the plant is spider mites. These tiny, white or yellowish arachnids suck the sap of the plant and can cause significant damages if left untreated. To control spider mites, apply insecticidal soaps, increase the humidity level around the plant, or use predatory mites to eat them.
Another potential pest is the eucalyptus tortoise beetle, a small, metallic beetle that feeds on the leaves of the plant. To manage this pest, remove any affected leaves and apply insecticides.
In summary, Eunanus kelloggii Curran ex Greene var. parviflorus is a generally healthy plant. To minimize the chances of disease and pest infestations, ensure the plant is grown in well-drained soil, not over-watered, and provided with adequate air flow and humidity levels. Regular inspection and cleaning of the plant can also help identify and manage any issues before they become widespread.
