Overview
Microcoelia dahomeensis (Finet) Summerh. is a small epiphytic orchid found in the tropical and subtropical regions of Africa. It belongs to the family Orchidaceae and is commonly known by the name Dahomey Microcoelia.
Description
The plant has a tiny pseudobulb that is barely visible. The leaves are small, thick, and fleshy, and they form a rosette at the base of the plant. The inflorescence is a raceme that grows from the base of the pseudobulb, and it bears up to six white or pinkish flowers that are only a few millimeters in size. The flowers have a curved spur at the base and are fragrant.
Origin and Distribution
Microcoelia dahomeensis is native to tropical and subtropical regions of Africa, including Ghana, Cameroon, Nigeria, and Gabon. It is mostly found in rainforests, growing on the bark of trees and occasionally on rocks.
Uses
The plant is not widely used for medicinal or commercial purposes, but it is occasionally cultivated as an ornamental plant for its delicate small flowers. It is also of interest to horticulturists and collectors because of its rarity and small size. In its natural habitat, the plant plays a vital role in ecosystem balance as it serves as a food source for various insects and small mammals.
Growth Conditions for Microcoelia Dahomeensis
Microcoelia dahomeensis (also known as Finet's Microcoelia or Dahomey Orchid) is a tropical plant that thrives in specific growth conditions. Below are some of the essential factors that you should consider when growing this beautiful flowering plant.
Light
Microcoelia dahomeensis requires bright but indirect light to grow. Avoid direct sunlight as it can burn and damage the plant. In its natural habitat, this orchid grows under shade trees that filter the sunlight. Therefore, it would be best to place it near a window that receives filtered light, or use a shade cloth to diffuse the light.
Temperature
This plant prefers warm temperatures ranging between 20 and 30 degrees Celsius (68 to 86 degrees Fahrenheit). Therefore, it is vital to maintain stable conditions throughout the year. Avoid exposing it to cold drafts and temperatures below 15 degrees Celsius (59 degrees Fahrenheit).
Humidity
Microcoelia dahomeensis requires high humidity levels to thrive, just like other tropical orchids. Maintaining consistent humidity levels of around 60 to 80 percent is essential. You can achieve this by using a humidifier, placing a water tray near the plant, or misting the foliage frequently.
Soil
The plant grows best in well-draining soil. A mixture of sphagnum moss, orchid bark, and perlite is ideal for the plant's growth. Avoid using heavy potting soil as it can retain too much moisture and lead to root rot. Additionally, use a pot with adequate drainage holes to prevent waterlogging.
Fertilizer
Fertilize Microcoelia dahomeensis once a month during the growing season, which is typically spring and summer. Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer, such as 20-20-20, to provide the required nutrients. However, be careful not to over-fertilize the plant as it can lead to salt buildup in the soil.
Cultivation Methods
Microcoelia dahomeensis is an epiphytic orchid that grows on trees in the wild or can be cultivated in a pot or hanging basket. When selecting a container, choose one that has excellent drainage and is the appropriate size for the orchid. Use a bark or sphagnum moss mixture as a growing medium and place the orchid in an area that receives indirect sunlight.
Watering Needs
Watering the Microcoelia dahomeensis needs to be done with care as it requires consistent watering but not too much. Keep the growing medium slightly damp but avoid waterlogged soil as this can lead to root rot. Increase the frequency of watering during the growing season and reduce it during the dormant period. Water early in the day, so the leaves have time to dry before nightfall as wet leaves can lead to bacterial growth and disease.
Fertilization
Microcoelia dahomeensis requires regular fertilization during the growing season with a balanced orchid fertilizer. Use a quarter-strength solution and apply it every two weeks. Reduce or cease fertilizing during the dormant period.
Pruning
Pruning is necessary to maintain the plant's shape and overall health. To prune, remove old or damaged leaves, flowers, and stems. Ensure that the pruners or scissors used are clean and sharp to reduce the risk of transmitting disease. Pruning should be done after flowering or when the orchid is in its dormant period.
Propagation of Microcoelia dahomeensis
Microcoelia dahomeensis is a terrestrial orchid that can be propagated through several methods. Propagation is an important aspect of this plant's life cycle, as it ensures the survival of the species.
Division
Division is the most common method of propagating Microcoelia dahomeensis. It involves separating the plant's roots and stems into smaller sections, each with a healthy root system. The new sections can be planted in small pots or directly into the ground, in a location with the same growing conditions as the parent plant.
Seed Propagation
Seed propagation is possible with Microcoelia dahomeensis, but it is a more challenging method and requires patience. The seeds must be collected when they are fully mature and sown in a suitable medium, such as sphagnum moss or a mixture of sphagnum moss and perlite. The container should be kept moist and warm until the seeds germinate. Once the seedlings are large enough to be handled, they can be transplanted into individual pots or directly into the ground.
Keiki Propagation
Keikis are small plantlets that can form along the stem of Microcoelia dahomeensis. They can be removed from the parent plant and rooted in a growing medium. This method can be successful if the keiki has developed roots of its own. Keikis can also be left on the parent plant to grow larger before removal.
Disease and Pest Management for Microcoelia dahomeensis
Microcoelia dahomeensis (Finet) Summerh. is a beautiful orchid species that is susceptible to various diseases and pests. Managing these diseases and pests is crucial to maintaining the health of the plant.
Common Diseases
One of the most common diseases that affect Microcoelia dahomeensis is root rot. This disease is caused by overwatering, poor drainage, or improper potting mix. To avoid root rot, ensure the pot has drainage holes, use a well-draining potting mix, and avoid overwatering the plant.
Another common disease is powdery mildew. Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that appears as a white powdery substance on the leaves. It can be treated by removing the affected leaves, increasing air circulation and reducing humidity, and applying a fungicide following package instructions.
Common Pests
Microcoelia dahomeensis is susceptible to some pests such as spider mites, thrips, and mealybugs. Spider mites are tiny pests that can cause discoloration of the leaves and webbing. To manage spider mites, increase humidity levels by misting the plant regularly, remove the affected leaves, isolate the plant to prevent the spread, and apply neem oil following package instructions.
Thrips are tiny insects that feed on the leaves, causing discoloration and distortion. To manage thrips, remove the affected leaves, increase air circulation and reduce humidity, and apply insecticidal soap following package instructions.
Mealybugs are pests that can cause yellowing of the leaves and a sticky residue on the plant. To manage mealybugs, isolate the affected plant to prevent the spread, remove the affected leaves, and use a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol to remove the pests.
In conclusion, managing diseases and pests is essential in maintaining a healthy Microcoelia dahomeensis plant. Proper plant care, early detection and treatment are essential in preventing the spread of these diseases and pests.
