Origin
Lissochilus abyssinicus (A.Rich.) T.Durand & Schinz is a species of flowering plant that belongs to the family Orchidaceae. The plant is native to Ethiopia and other parts of East Africa and can be found growing in high altitude areas ranging from 1800-2700 meters above sea level.
Common Names
The plant is commonly referred to as Abyssinia Lissochilus or simply Lissochilus. In Ethiopia, it is known as "Lessim," which means beautiful in the Amharic language.
Uses
The plant is used for various purposes in traditional medicine. In Ethiopia, the roots of the plant are used to treat coughs, while the juice of the flowers is used to treat earaches. The plant is also used in the production of perfume due to its fragrant flowers.
General Appearance
The Lissochilus abyssinicus is a terrestrial plant that grows up to 50 cm tall. The plant has elongated, narrow leaves that can reach up to 25 cm in length. The flowers of the plant are numerous and grow in dense clusters on a tall stem. The flowers are fragrant and have white petals with a purple and yellow lip. The fruit of the plant is a capsule that contains numerous small seeds.
Light Requirements
Lissochilus abyssinicus (A.Rich.) T.Durand & Schinz requires moderate to bright light for optimal growth. It should be placed in an area with full or partial sunlight. However, direct sunlight must be avoided as it can damage the plant's leaves and roots.
Temperature Requirements
This plant's ideal temperature range is between 18-25°C (65-77°F) during the day and around 15°C (60°F) at night. Avoid exposing it to temperatures below 13°C (55°F) as it can cause damage to the plant and may affect its growth and flowering.
Soil Requirements
Lissochilus abyssinicus (A.Rich.) T.Durand & Schinz prefers well-draining soil with high organic matter content. The soil should be slightly acidic with a pH range of 6.0-6.5. A good mix for this plant can be one part peat moss, one part perlite, and one part orchid bark. This will provide the plant with enough moisture retention and drainage, which is crucial for its growth and development.
Cultivation Methods
Lissochilus abyssinicus (A.Rich.) T.Durand & Schinz requires a warm and humid environment for optimal growth. It can be cultivated indoors or outdoors in areas with a warm climate. The plant prefers filtered sunlight and well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil pH should be slightly acidic, ranging between 5.5 and 6.5.
Watering Needs
The plant prefers to be kept consistently moist, but not waterlogged. Water the plant deeply when the top inch of soil feels dry. In areas with high temperatures, the plant may require more frequent watering. During the winter months, reduce the watering frequency to prevent the soil from becoming too wet.
Fertilization
Feed the plant with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season. Use a fertilizer that is high in nitrogen to promote vegetative growth and a higher number of blooms. During the winter months, reduce the frequency of fertilization to once every two months.
Pruning
Prune the plant after flowering to maintain its shape and promote more blooms. Cut back the stem to just above a node where new growth will emerge. It is also recommended to remove any dead or yellowing leaves to encourage the plant's health. Use sharp, clean garden shears or pruning scissors to minimize the risk of disease or infection.
Propagation of Lissochilus abyssinicus (A.Rich.) T.Durand & Schinz
Lissochilus abyssinicus (A.Rich.) T.Durand & Schinz, commonly known as the African marsh orchid, is a terrestrial orchid found in Africa. The plant can be propagated through several methods.
Division
Division is the simplest method to propagate Lissochilus abyssinicus. It involves separating the plant into smaller sections, each with its own set of roots and leaves. The best time for the division is during the growing season when the plants are actively producing new growth.
Seeds
Lissochilus abyssinicus can also be propagated by seeds. Harvest the seeds when the seed pod is fully matured but before it bursts open. Disinfect the seeds by soaking them in a solution of fungicide and water for 10 minutes. Sow the seeds onto a sterile potting mix that is moist but not waterlogged. Cover the pots with plastic wrap to maintain high humidity levels and keep them in a warm, bright location. Germination will occur within four to six weeks.
Meristem culture
Meristem culture or tissue culture is an advanced propagation method used to propagate Lissochilus abyssinicus. It involves removing a small piece of the plant tissue and growing it in a sterile container under precise environmental conditions. This technique is useful for producing large numbers of plants with uniform characteristics.
These are some of the propagation methods used to propagate Lissochilus abyssinicus. Choose the method that suits your requirement and skill level.
Disease management
Lissochilus abyssinicus can be affected by several diseases, including:
- Leaf spot: This fungal disease causes circular brown spots on the leaves. It can be managed by removing infected leaves and avoiding overhead watering.
- Root rot: Caused by water-logging and fungal infection, root rot can lead to wilting, yellowing, and decay of the root system. To manage root rot, it is essential to provide well-draining soil, avoid over-watering, and ensure good air circulation around the plant.
- Virus diseases: Several viruses can infect Lissochilus abyssinicus, causing stunted growth, yellowing, and mottling of leaves. There is no cure for viral infections, so infected plants should be removed and destroyed to prevent further spread.
Pest management
The plant can also be attacked by some pests, including:
- Mealybugs: These small insects attach to the leaves and stems and suck sap from the plant, causing stunted growth and yellowing. Mealybugs can be managed by using a solution of soap and water to clean the leaves and spraying the plant with neem oil.
- Scale insects: These pests attach themselves to woody stems and suck sap from the plant, causing yellowing and dieback. Scale insects can be managed by using a solution of alcohol and water to clean the plant, followed by releasing beneficial insects like ladybugs and lacewings that feed on scale insects.
- Spider mites: These tiny pests live on the underside of leaves and spin webs, causing yellowing and leaf drop. They can be managed by spraying the plant with neem oil or releasing beneficial insects like predatory mites and ladybugs that feed on spider mites.
