Origin and Common Names
Maxillaria coccinea (Jacq.) L.O. Williams ex Hodge is a species of orchid native to the Caribbean and Central America. Common names for this plant include Scarlet Maxillaria and Bloody Maxillaria.
General Appearance
Maxillaria coccinea has small, ovoid pseudobulbs that are typically a reddish-brown color. The plant's leaves are thin and strap-shaped, with a length of about 7-12 cm. The flowers of this plant are striking, with a bright scarlet color and a distinctive shape. The petals and sepals are narrow and elongated, while the lip is shorter and more rounded.
Uses
Maxillaria coccinea is primarily grown as an ornamental plant due to its beautiful flowers. In some parts of its native range, the plant has also been used in traditional medicine for a variety of ailments, including stomach problems and respiratory issues.
Light Requirements
Maxillaria coccinea is known to be a shade-loving plant that grows well under partial sunlight or filtered light. It cannot withstand direct exposure to the sun, which can damage the plant's leaves and cause discoloration. It is best to grow this plant under the shade of tall trees that can provide filtered light.
Temperature Requirements
Maxillaria coccinea thrives in warm and humid conditions, with a temperature range of 18°C to 28°C. The plant cannot tolerate extreme temperatures and should be protected from frost and cold drafts. A drop in temperature can also cause the plant to shed off its leaves and stunt its growth.
Soil Requirements
Maxillaria coccinea grows best in a well-draining potting mix that contains a high amount of organic matter. The soil should have a pH range of 5.5 to 6.5, which is slightly acidic. It is best to mix perlite, bark, and coconut coir to create a potting mix that can provide adequate drainage and aeration to the roots. Avoid using heavy soils that can retain moisture and lead to root rot.
Cultivation Methods for Maxillaria coccinea
Maxillaria coccinea is an epiphytic orchid that can be cultivated in a pot or a basket with a growing medium of bark, sphagnum moss, or a mixture of both. The plant prefers bright and indirect light that mimics the dappled shade found in its natural habitat.
Average temperature and humidity levels are required for successful cultivation. Optimal temperature range is between 60-80 °F with humidity ranging from 50-80%. Relative humidity can be increased by adding a humidifier nearby or placing a tray of wet pebbles under the pot.
Watering Needs for Maxillaria coccinea
Maxillaria coccinea requires a regular watering schedule to stay healthy and growing. Water should be given when the growing medium begins to feel dry, typically every 7-10 days. When watering, soak the plant thoroughly and ensure that excess water can drain out of the container. Avoid using metal containers or using tap water which can contain high levels of minerals that can harm the roots.
Fertilization for Maxillaria coccinea
Maxillaria coccinea needs regular fertilization to encourage healthy growth and flowering. A balanced, water-soluble fertilizer with equal parts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, can be used every 2-3 weeks during the growing season, which is usually from spring to fall. Avoid over-fertilizing, which can cause damage to the plant.
Pruning Maxillaria coccinea
Maxillaria coccinea requires minimal pruning and should only be done after flowering. Remove any yellow leaves or stems that have lost their leaves. Additionally, trimming back the aerial roots can encourage new growth.
Propagation methods for Maxillaria coccinea (Jacq.) L.O. Williams ex Hodge
Maxillaria coccinea (Jacq.) L.O. Williams ex Hodge is a beautiful epiphytic orchid, native to Central America, that produces small, bright red flowers with yellow markings. Propagation of this plant can be done through various methods:
Division
Propagation by division involves separating the pseudobulbs of the plant to create new plants. The best time to divide Maxillaria coccinea is during the growing season, in early spring or after flowering. The plant should be gently removed from its pot and the pseudobulbs separated with a sterile knife. Each division should have at least one healthy pseudobulb with several leaves. The plant can then be repotted in a suitable potting mix and placed in a bright, partially shaded area.
Seed propagation
Seeds are another method of propagating Maxillaria coccinea. However, this method is more difficult and time-consuming, as orchid seeds are very small and require special care. Seeds can be collected from the plant after flowering and should be sown immediately in a sterile, nutrient-rich medium. The medium should be kept damp and placed in a warm, humid environment. The seeds should germinate within a few weeks. The young plants can be transplanted to a suitable growing medium after they have developed several leaves.
Keiki propagation
Maxillaria coccinea also has the ability to produce “keikis,” which are small plantlets that develop on the stem of the mother plant. These plantlets can be carefully removed and planted in a suitable medium. Before detachment, the keiki should have several roots and at least one leaf. The new plant should be watered and placed in a warm, humid environment until it is established.
Propagation of Maxillaria coccinea can be done through division, seed propagation, or keiki propagation. Each method has its advantages and disadvantages. Careful consideration of the plant's growth habit and specific needs should be taken into account before selecting a propagation method.
Disease Management
Maxillaria coccinea plants can be affected by various diseases, and it's essential to identify and manage them timely. One common fungal disease that might attack this orchid is black rot, which causes a soft, blackened appearance of the stems and leaves. To prevent the spread of this infection to other plants, infected parts should be removed and destroyed. Moreover, the use of fungicides is recommended to control and prevent further spread of the disease.
Fusarium wilt is another fungal disease that might affect Maxillaria coccinea plants. This disease attacks the plant's roots, causing them to rot. As a result, the leaves may start to wilt, and the plant may eventually die. To prevent Fusarium wilt, implementing proper cultural practices such as avoiding overwatering, ensuring proper drainage and ventilation, and removing any infected plants can help. Fungicides can also be used to control the disease.
Pest Management
Aside from diseases, Maxillaria coccinea plants can also be affected by pests such as scales, mealybugs, and spider mites. Scales and mealybugs feed on the plant's sap, causing yellowing and deformation of leaves. To control these pests, one can use insecticidal soaps or horticultural oils. For spider mites, which are tiny sap-sucking pests that thrive in hot and dry environments, regularly misting the plant can help control their population.
Another pest that might affect this orchid is thrips, which can cause the leaves to develop silver-grey spots. To get rid of thrips, one can use insecticidal soaps, neem oil, or other chemical treatments. However, it's important to ensure the safety of the plant and its surroundings, following proper instructions, and avoiding harmful chemicals that might affect humans, animals, or the environment.
