Origin
Microstylis maclaudii Finet is a terrestrial orchid species that is native to Southeast Asia, specifically found in Thailand, Laos, Myanmar, and Vietnam.
Common Names
The plant is commonly known as Microstylis, or more specifically, Microstylis maclaudii. In Vietnam, it is called "?i?u mào mèo."
Uses
The plant has no known medicinal uses, but it is popular for ornamental purposes. It is a beautiful plant that can be grown in gardens or indoors in pots. The plant's stunning floral display makes it an excellent choice for both indoor and outdoor gardens. Its flowers are long-lasting and can remain intact for up to six weeks.
General Appearance
Microstylis maclaudii Finet is an epiphytic herb growing up to 6-8 inches tall. It has an upright stem with simple leaves that are succulent and green and about 10-15 cm in length. The flowers are pinkish-purple with dark fringes and a yellow-green lip. They grow one or two flowers on each inflorescence, measuring up to 2-3 cm in length. The plant blooms from the fall to the winter season.
Growth Conditions for Microstylis Maclaudii Finet
Light: Microstylis maclaudii Finet is an orchid that requires filtered light. It grows best in areas with moderate to bright light. Direct sunlight should be avoided as it may cause the leaves to burn. To provide adequate light, the plant should be placed in a spot that receives morning or evening sun and is shaded during the hottest part of the day.
Temperature: The optimal temperature for the growth of Microstylis maclaudii Finet is between 16°C to 24°C. Exposure to temperature extremes should be avoided, as this may negatively impact plant growth. The plant should be kept at a constant temperature without sudden changes in temperature.
Air Humidity: Microstylis maclaudii Finet requires high air humidity for proper growth, ideally around 80%. It is recommended to regularly mist the plant with water to increase humidity levels. Using a pebble tray or humidifier can also help maintain humidity, especially in dry environments.
Soil: This orchid requires a porous, well-draining soil mix that is slightly acidic. It is recommended to use a mix of sphagnum moss, orchid bark, and perlite to provide the necessary nutrients and oxygen to the roots. The plant should be repotted every two years or when the soil has broken down and is no longer draining properly.
Fertilizer: Microstylis maclaudii Finet should be fertilized regularly during the growing season (spring and summer) to provide necessary nutrients for the plant. A balanced, water-soluble fertilizer with equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium can be used every two weeks.
Overall, providing the proper conditions of light, temperature, humidity, and soil will ensure the healthy growth of Microstylis maclaudii Finet, resulting in a vibrant and attractive orchid.
Cultivation methods for Microstylis maclaudii Finet
Microstylis maclaudii Finet is an epiphytic orchid and is usually found growing on tree trunks or branches. In cultivation, it is best grown in a hanging basket to mimic its natural growth habit.
It requires a well-draining, coarse potting mix composed of a combination of sphagnum moss, orchid bark chips, perlite, and charcoal. The potting mix should be moist but not waterlogged.
Watering needs for Microstylis maclaudii Finet
Watering should also mimic its natural habitat. The orchid should be watered regularly, but not excessively, during the growing season as soon as the potting mix starts to dry out. In the winter months, watering should be reduced to a minimum, and the potting mix should be allowed to dry out a bit more.
The orchid prefers rainwater or distilled water as opposed to tap water high in mineral content or softened water, which can cause damage to the plant.
Fertilization for Microstylis maclaudii Finet
Fertilization should be done monthly during the growing season with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer specifically formulated for orchids. The orchid should be fertilized only when the potting mix is moist to prevent fertilizer burn and should not be fertilized during the winter months when the orchid is dormant.
Pruning for Microstylis maclaudii Finet
Pruning is not necessary for this orchid; however, if the orchid has dead or damaged roots, they should be trimmed or removed to prevent the spread of disease. Additionally, any yellowing or diseased leaves should be removed promptly to prevent the spread of infection.
Propagation of Microstylis maclaudii Finet
Microstylis maclaudii Finet, also known as the Chinese language orchid, is a species of orchid native to Asia. This plant can be propagated through several methods including division, seed propagation, and tissue culture.
Division
Division is the most common propagation method for Microstylis maclaudii Finet. It involves separating the plant's pseudobulbs, which are modified stems that store water and nutrients. Divisions should have at least two growth points each. The plants should be divided in the spring, before they begin actively growing again.
Seed Propagation
Seed propagation is another way to propagate Microstylis maclaudii Finet. This method is challenging because the seeds are small and require specific conditions to germinate. The seed pods should be left on the plant until they turn brown and begin to split open, revealing the seeds. The seeds should be sown in a sterile medium and must be kept moist at all times. Germination usually takes four to six weeks. Seed propagation is time-consuming, but it allows for genetic diversity in the offspring.
Tissue Culture
Tissue culture is a propagation technique used by growers to multiply plants quickly and produce large numbers of identical offspring. It involves taking a tiny piece of plant tissue and placing it in a nutrient-rich artificial environment where it can grow. The advantage of this method is that it allows for large quantities of plants to be produced, thereby satisfying market demands. However, this method requires specialized equipment and expertise.
Disease and Pest Management for Microstylis maclaudii Finet
Microstylis maclaudii Finet is a small orchid species native to the Himalayas and Southeast Asia. Despite being hardy, it can fall prey to various diseases and pests. If proper measures are not taken, these can cause significant damage to the plant. Therefore, it is essential to understand the common diseases and pests that affect this plant and how to manage them.
Common Diseases Affecting Microstylis maclaudii Finet
Fungal Diseases: The most common fungal diseases that can affect the Microstylis maclaudii Finet plant are root rot and anthracnose. Root rot is caused by overwatering and poor soil drainage, while anthracnose is caused by a fungus that affects the leaves and stems. To prevent these diseases, it is essential to ensure proper soil drainage and watering practices. In case of an infection, remove the infected parts of the plant and apply a fungicide to prevent the spread of the disease.
Viral Diseases: Viral diseases are not very common in Microstylis maclaudii Finet, but they can occur. Some of the most common include mosaic virus, which causes yellowing and mottling of leaves, and necrosis virus, which causes death of plant tissues. Unfortunately, there is no cure for viral diseases, and infected plants should be eliminated to prevent the spread of the disease.
Common Pests Affecting Microstylis maclaudii Finet
Spider Mites: Spider mites are tiny, sap-sucking pests that can cause bronzing and yellowing of leaves. The presence of spider mites can be detected by webbing on the plant. To manage spider mites, remove the infected parts and spray the plant with neem oil, which is an effective natural pesticide.
Scale Insects: Scale insects are small, flat, oval-shaped pests that can cause yellowing and curling of leaves. They can be managed by removing them manually and wiping the plant with a soft cloth dipped in rubbing alcohol. Applying neem oil or insecticidal soap can also help control the infestation.
Thrips: Thrips are small, slender insects that suck plant sap and cause stippling of leaves. They can also spread viral diseases. To control thrips, remove infected parts and spray the plant with neem oil or insecticidal soap.
Overall, proper care and regular inspection of Microstylis maclaudii Finet can prevent the occurrence of diseases and pests. Implementing good cultural practices and using natural remedies can help manage the most common problems that affect this plant.
