Microcoelia friesii (Schltr.) Summerh. - Overview
Microcoelia friesii (Schltr.) Summerh. is a species of orchid that belongs to the family Orchidaceae. This plant is mostly found in Africa and is commonly known as the African Butterfly Orchid. It is a terrestrial plant that grows on rocks and in the soil.
Appearance
The plant grows up to 20 cm high and forms a circular rosette of leaves that are succulent and fleshy. The leaves are dark green, glossy, and have a length of about 15 cm and a width of about 5 cm. The flowers are pale yellow with brown longitudinal stripes, and they are borne on a 15cm long inflorescence. The flowers have a pleasant fragrance and bloom in the summer. This orchid produces small seed pods that have a dehiscent nature, exploding when fully mature.
Uses
Microcoelia friesii (Schltr.) Summerh. is a popular ornamental plant. It is grown in gardens, greenhouses, and used as an indoor plant. It is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to grow and does not require much water. The African Butterfly orchid is also used in traditional medicine to treat a variety of ailments such as diarrhea, stomach pain, and headaches. Some people believe that the orchid has spiritual and ritualistic values.
Additionally, the plant is also suitable for the production of fragrances and perfumes. Its pleasant fragrance makes it ideal for use as a perfume ingredient and for aromatherapy my all by itself if are able to buy an extract of the plant. It is also one of the species that produce high quality resins and gums that are used for various medicinal and commercial purposes.
Light Requirements:
Microcoelia friesii requires bright, indirect light to grow properly. It thrives under moderate levels of filtered or diffused light in its natural habitat and is sensitive to direct sunlight. Hence, it is recommended to place the plant in partially shaded areas of the house or grow room. fluorescent lights can be used to supplement natural light in case of insufficient light.
Temperature Requirements:
The optimal temperature range for Microcoelia friesii is between 23°C and 28°C. It is essential to maintain a consistent temperature and avoid fluctuations, especially during extreme weather conditions, as the plant is sensitive to both cold and heat stress. At temperatures below 15°C, the growth of the plant is hindered, and below 10°C, it may die.
Humidity Requirements:
Microcoelia friesii requires high levels of humidity for proper growth and development. The ideal relative humidity should be maintained between 60% and 80%. It can be achieved by misting the plant regularly with water, placing a tray of water near it, or using a humidifier in the grow room.
Soil Requirements:
Microcoelia friesii is an epiphytic plant, which means it prefers to grow on other plants rather than in soil. Hence, it requires a growing medium that mimics the bark or wood of its natural host. A mixture of bark, sphagnum moss, and perlite is a suitable option. The soil should be well-draining to prevent waterlogging, which can harm the plant's roots.
Fertilizer Requirements:
Microcoelia friesii does not require regular fertilization. However, during the growing season, a weak solution of balanced fertilizer can be applied every two to three weeks. Over-fertilization should be avoided as it can lead to salt build-up in the soil, which can cause root damage.
Cultivation Methods for Microcoelia friesii
Microcoelia friesii is an epiphytic orchid, meaning it grows on other plants, typically trees, and gets nutrients and water from the air and organic matter that accumulates around its roots. To cultivate this plant indoors, you will need a pot with a well-draining mix of soil and bark chunks. Make sure the container has ample drainage holes to prevent water from accumulating.
It is better to keep the plant in bright, indirect light. If you notice the leaves turning yellow or brown, that may indicate that the light is too intense.
Watering Needs for Microcoelia friesii
The watering frequency for Microcoelia friesii may vary based on its growing conditions. As a general rule, water the plant when the potting mix feels dry to the touch. Overwatering could cause the roots to rot, leading to the death of the plant. Therefore, it is better to underwater than overwater.
The best way to water this plant is to let it soak in water for at least 20 minutes. After that, drain well. If you are growing the plant in a humid environment, like a bathroom, you can mist the foliage a few times a week.
Fertilization for Microcoelia friesii
Microcoelia friesii will benefit from regular fertilization. Use a balanced fertilizer, such as a 20-20-20 or 15-15-15, and dilute it to half the recommended strength. Apply the fertilizer every two weeks during the active growing season, which is typically from spring to fall. In winter, you can fertilize the plant every month or so.
Pruning Microcoelia friesii
Pruning Microcoelia friesii is not necessary unless you notice dead or diseased parts. In that case, you should remove them with a sterile cutting tool to prevent further infections. Also, you can remove any old flower spikes once they have finished blooming to encourage the plant to produce new ones.
Remember to always wash your hands and sterilize your pruning tools before working with your plant.
Propagation of Microcoelia friesii
Microcoelia friesii (Schltr.) Summerh. is a beautiful orchid that can be propagated by different methods, including:
Division
One of the easiest ways to propagate Microcoelia friesii is through division. This method involves separating the plant into smaller sections with each section having at least one pseudobulb and a few roots. This can be done during repotting, where the plant is removed from its pot, and the roots and pseudobulbs are gently separated before replanting.
Seed Propagation
Propagation of Microcoelia friesii through seeds is a bit more challenging. The seeds need a sterile environment to germinate and grow. The seeds are sown on a sterile medium such as agar, and placed in a covered container in a warm and humid environment. Once the seedlings have grown enough, they can then be transferred to a suitable potting medium.
Backbulb Propagation
Propagation of Microcoelia friesii can also be done through backbulbs. Backbulbs are mature pseudobulbs that no longer produce leaves but still have a healthy root system. These backbulbs can be separated from the parent plant and potted up. The backbulb will then produce new growth and eventually a new plant.
Keiki Propagation
Keikis are small plantlets that develop along the stems of some orchids such as Microcoelia friesii. Keikis can be detached from the parent plant once they have developed roots and are large enough to survive on their own. They can then be planted in a suitable potting medium, and grown into a mature plant.
Disease and Pest Management of Microcoelia friesii (Schltr.) Summerh.
Microcoelia friesii (Schltr.) Summerh. is an orchid species native to Africa. Although it is a resilient plant, it is not immune to pests and diseases. Here are some common problems that may affect this species and ways to manage them:
Diseases
Fungal and bacterial infections: Orchids are prone to these types of infections due to their humid environment. Symptoms include discolored patches on the leaves, stems, and flowers, as well as wilting and rotting of plant tissue. To manage these infections, remove the affected parts of the plant and ensure good air circulation around the plant. Avoid over-watering and only water the plant when it is dry.
Viruses: Viral infections are highly contagious and can cause a range of symptoms, including stunted growth, yellowing and distorted leaves, and flower deformation. Unfortunately, there is no cure for viral infections in plants. The best way to manage them is to prevent their spread by removing infected plants and disinfecting gardening tools.
Pests
Spider mites: These tiny pests are difficult to spot but can cause significant damage to the plant. Symptoms include yellow stippling on the leaves and fine webbing on the plant. To manage spider mites, remove the affected leaves and use insecticidal soaps or oils to control their populations.
Scale insects: These pests look like raised bumps on the leaves or stems of the plant. They can cause yellowing and wilting of the plant tissue. To manage scale insects, use an insecticidal spray or wipe the plant with a solution of water and dish soap.
Mealybugs: These pests appear as white, cottony masses on the plant and suck sap from the leaves and stems, causing stunted growth and yellowing of the leaves. To manage mealybugs, use an insecticidal soap or oil to control their populations.
In conclusion, maintaining good growing conditions and identifying and managing diseases and pests quickly are essential to keep Microcoelia friesii (Schltr.) Summerh. healthy and thriving. Regular inspections and treatments can prevent significant issues and keep your plant strong and beautiful.
