Introduction
Habenaria stylites Rchb. f. & S. Moore subsp. stylites is a herbaceous plant belonging to the Orchidaceae family. It is a variation of Habenaria stylites, a species that differs in the more upturned shape of its lip. The plant is native to South Africa, particularly the provinces of Gauteng, Limpopo, Mpumalanga, and KwaZulu-Natal.Appearance
The plant grows between 20 to 70cm tall with bright green leaves, elliptic, and lance-shaped. It blooms from January to March, with the flowers arranged on a terminal spike attached to a long, slender stem. The spike ranges between 10 to 18cm in length and five to 16 flowers each. The flowers are an upright, slender, lance-shaped lip, pink to purplish in color with occasionally white margins, and sepals and petals which form a cup around the lip.Common names
The plant is commonly known as the Upturned Habenaria, Bokmakierie's Habenaria, or African Bog Orchid.Uses
Habenaria stylites Rchb.f. & S.Moore is an ornamental plant with beautiful flowers, making it a popular choice for gardens. The plant thrives in full sunlight and moist soil rich in organic matter. In traditional African medicine, powdered tubers of certain Habenaria species are used as a sexual tonic and to treat infertility. However, further research is necessary to verify any medicinal properties.Light Requirements
Habenaria stylites Rchb.f. & S.Moore subsp. stylites typically grow in shady to semi-shady areas in the wild. Indirect bright light is ideal for their growth. As indoor plants, they require bright but filtered light instead of direct sunlight, which may harm their growth.
Temperature Requirements
The optimal temperature range for the growth of Habenaria stylites Rchb.f. & S.Moore subsp. stylites is between 15°C to 25°C. The plant prefers a humid, cool environment with good air circulation. They are not tolerant of extreme temperatures and may experience stunted growth or even die when exposed to temperatures above 30°C or below 10°C.
Soil Requirements
The soil for Habenaria stylites Rchb.f. & S.Moore subsp. stylites should be well-draining and rich in organic matter. The plant prefers slightly acidic to neutral soil with a pH range of 5.5 to 7.0. A mixture of peat moss and perlite or vermiculite works well for these plants. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged, as excessive moisture may cause root rot and damage the plant's growth.
Cultivation
Habenaria stylites Rchb.f. & S.Moore subsp. stylites, also known as Tall Bog Orchid, can be grown in a container or in a garden as long as the growing conditions are right. They prefer partial to full sunlight and need moist soil that is not water-logged. The plant should not be exposed to hot and dry conditions as it can cause the plant to wilt.
Watering
The Tall Bog Orchid requires regular watering, and the soil should be kept moist at all times. However, it is important not to water the plant too much as it can lead to root rot. The ideal way to water is from the bottom of the container or with a gentle spray to the roots. If in a garden, the plant should be watered regularly to keep the soil moist but not water-logged.
Fertilization
The Tall Bog Orchid should be fertilized every two weeks during the growing season with a well-balanced fertilizer that is high in nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. It is important not to over-fertilize, as this can cause salt build-up in the soil, which can lead to root burn.
Pruning
Habenaria stylites Rchb.f. & S.Moore subsp. stylites does not require pruning unless it is necessary to remove dead or damaged stems or leaves. Pruning should be done after flowering, as the plant uses its energy to produce flowers. For a healthier plant, cut the stems at the base of the plant or the leaf closest to the stem.
Propagation of Habenaria stylites Rchb.f. & S.Moore subsp. stylites
Habenaria stylites Rchb.f. & S.Moore subsp. stylites, commonly known as the Tall Rein Orchid, can be propagated using various methods such as seed propagation and vegetative propagation.
Seed propagation
Seed propagation is the most common method used for Habenaria stylites Rchb.f. & S.Moore subsp. stylites. Harvesting the seeds from mature plants will need to be done at the right time to ensure better chances of germination. Once the pods have turned brown, the seeds are ready for harvest.
Seeds should be stored in dry and clean conditions. Sowing seeds can be done in a potting mix that has good drainage and proper aeration. Seeds should not be covered by soil, but rather sprinkled on top of the mix, where they will receive sufficient light for germination. Watering can be done occasionally to keep the surface moist. Germination can take a few weeks to a few months, depending on environmental conditions.
Vegetative propagation
Vegetative propagation can be done through pseudobulb division or by stem cuttings.
Pseudobulb division should be done with a clean and sharp knife. Mature plants that have well-established pseudobulbs can be carefully divided, ensuring that each division has a few roots and a pseudobulb. The divisions can then be planted in a suitable potting mix.
Stem cuttings can be taken from the mature stems of the plant. The cuttings should be done using a clean and sharp knife. The cutting should have at least one node, and all leaves should be removed except for one or two at the top. The cutting can then be planted in suitable potting mix and kept in a humid environment until new shoots start to emerge.
It is important to note that vegetative propagation may take a longer time for the plant to mature and bloom in comparison to seed propagation.
Disease Management
Habenaria stylites Rchb.f. & S.Moore subsp. stylites is susceptible to various diseases that can cause severe damage to the plant. Some of the common diseases that affect this plant include:
- Leaf Spot: This is a fungal disease that causes brown or black patches on the leaves, leading to defoliation. To manage this disease, remove the affected leaves and spray the plant with a fungicide.
- Crown Rot: This disease is caused by a variety of fungal pathogens that attack the crown of the plant, causing it to rot. To prevent this disease, avoid overwatering and provide good drainage. Remove and destroy infected plants.
- Mosaic Virus: This viral disease causes yellow or green mottling on the leaves and stunted growth. There is no cure for this disease, so infected plants should be removed immediately to prevent the virus from spreading.
Maintaining proper cultural practices, such as watering, fertilizing, and pruning, can help prevent the occurrence of diseases. Regularly inspecting the plant for signs of disease and promptly treating any infections can also help manage diseases.
Pest Management
Habenaria stylites Rchb.f. & S.Moore subsp. stylites is also vulnerable to insect pests that can cause damage to the plant. Some of the common pests that affect this plant include:
- Aphids: These tiny insects suck the sap from the plant, causing stunted growth and yellowing of leaves. To manage this pest, use insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Spider Mites: These pests cause yellowing and speckling of leaves. They are often found in hot and dry conditions. To manage this pest, spray the plant with a strong burst of water or use insecticidal soap.
- Slugs and Snails: These pests can chew on leaves and stems, leaving large holes in the plant. To manage this pest, remove any hiding places around the plant, such as mulch or debris. Apply iron phosphate bait to control the population.
Regularly checking the plant for signs of insect pests and promptly treating any infestations can help manage pests. Natural predators, such as ladybugs and lacewings, can also be introduced to the garden to control pest populations.
