Overview
Microstylis schliebenii Mansf. is a terrestrial orchid that belongs to the Orchidaceae family. It is commonly known as Schlieben's Microstylis and is endemic to Africa.
Origin
The plant originates from the African continent, particularly in the Democratic Republic of Congo, Rwanda, Burundi, Tanzania, and Uganda.
Common Names
The Microstylis schliebenii Mansf. is known by different common names across its distribution range. Some people call it Schlieben's Microstylis, while others refer to it as the African Microstylis.
Appearance
The Microstylis schliebenii Mansf. is a small-sized orchid that grows up to 10cm tall. It has a single thin stem with several leaves arranged in a rosette formation at the base. The leaves are dark green and have a shiny surface. The inflorescence is a few-flowered raceme that emerges from the base of the leaves. The flowers are small with greenish-white petals that turn yellowish with age.
Uses
The Microstylis schliebenii Mansf. is not widely used by humans. However, some traditional communities in Africa use the orchid for medicinal purposes. It is believed that the plant can be used to cure various ailments such as fever, diarrhea, and stomach pains. The plant is also important for biodiversity conservation as it provides habitat for pollinators such as bees and butterflies.
Light Requirements
The Microstylis schliebenii Mansf. plant thrives in bright, indirect light, preferably under the cover of shade or partial sunlight. Low light levels can result in the plant not growing to its full potential while too much light can harm the leaves, cause discoloration, or even kill the plant. Therefore, it is essential to maintain optimal levels of light to ensure proper growth.
Temperature Requirements
The optimum temperature range required for the Microstylis schliebenii Mansf. plant's growth is between 22°C to 28°C. The plant cannot tolerate extreme temperatures and may die if they fluctuate too much. Hot or cold drafts must also be avoided, as they can lead to stunted growth or death of the plant.
Soil Requirements
The Microstylis schliebenii Mansf. plant grows well in well-draining, fertile soils with a slightly acidic to neutral pH range of 5.2 to 7.5. The soil should be moisture-rich, but not waterlogged, as the root of the plant can quickly rot under such conditions. The use of a good quality soil mix comprising of peat, perlite, and vermiculite is recommended.
Cultivation Methods
Microstylis schliebenii Mansf. is an epiphytic orchid and can be grown in pots or mounted on slabs. If growing the plant in a pot, use a well-draining potting mix that consists of bark, perlite, and charcoal. If mounting on a slab, attach the plant with wires or sphagnum moss.
Watering Needs
Microstylis schliebenii Mansf. requires consistently moist but not water-logged growing conditions. Water the plant when the potting mix starts to dry out. It is important to avoid prolonged periods of dryness or wetness as this can cause the roots to rot.
Fertilization
Fertilize the plant regularly with a balanced fertilizer during the active growing period. Dilute the fertilizer to half strength to avoid burning the delicate roots. Avoid fertilizing when the plant is not actively growing.
Pruning
Prune Microstylis schliebenii Mansf. after the flowering period by removing any dead or yellowing leaves. If the plant becomes too large for its container, it can be divided and repotted.
Propagation of Microstylis schliebenii Mansf.
Microstylis schliebenii Mansf. is a rare orchid species that is endemic to Cameroon in West Africa. It is a terrestrial orchid that grows in forested areas and is a saprophytic plant that relies on decaying organic matter for its nutrients.
Division
Propagation of Microstylis schliebenii Mansf. is primarily done through division. The plant can be divided into smaller clumps during its dormant period, which is usually after seed production. Each division should have at least three to four pseudobulbs with healthy roots. Careful handling is important during division, and sterile cutting tools should be used to avoid any damage or infection.
Seed Germination
Propagation through seed germination is possible but challenging due to the plant's specific needs and low seed germination rate. The orchid requires a specific fungus to help it germinate and grow, so it is essential to use the right soil substrate when planting. A mixture of peat moss, perlite, and bark chips can be used, and the soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged. The seeds should be kept at a constant temperature of around 25°C and under high humidity to encourage germination.
Care after Propagation
Regardless of the propagation method used, newly propagated plants should be kept away from direct sunlight and strong winds and placed in a shaded area with high humidity. A fungicide should be used to avoid infections, and fertilizer application should be minimized during the establishment stage.
With proper care and maintenance, new Microstylis schliebenii Mansf. plants can grow to maturity within two to three years.
Disease and Pest Management for Microstylis schliebenii Mansf.
Microstylis schliebenii Mansf. is a tropical orchid plant found in Africa's tropical forests. Like all plants, Microstylis schliebenii Mansf. is vulnerable to pests and diseases. The following are some common diseases and pests that might affect the plant and ways to manage them:
Diseases
Fungal infections: Microstylis schliebenii Mansf. is susceptible to fungal infections, which can cause root, stem, and leaf rot. To avoid fungal infections, use well-drained compost and avoid overwatering the plant. If you do spot signs of a fungal infection, remove the affected part of the plant and apply a fungicide.
Viral infections: Viral infections can cause mottling or yellowing of the leaves of Microstylis schliebenii Mansf. If you suspect your plant has a viral infection, remove the affected part of the plant and destroy it. Also, sterilize any tools you used to prune the plant.
Pests
Mealybugs: Mealybugs are tiny, white, and fuzzy insects that feed on plant sap. They can cause stunted growth and leaf yellowing in Microstylis schliebenii Mansf. To rid the plant of mealybugs, dab the insects with alcohol-soaked cotton swabs or spray them with insecticidal soap.
Spider mites: Spider mites are common pests of orchids, including Microstylis schliebenii Mansf. They cause webbing and stippling on leaves. To get rid of spider mites, you can use a miticide or isolate the plant from other plants to prevent the mites from spreading.
Thrips: Thrips are tiny insects that can cause leaf damage, and stunted plant growth in Microstylis schliebenii Mansf. Yellowing and spotted leaves are common signs of thrip infestation. To get rid of thrips, use a systemic insecticide or release predatory insects that feed on thrips.
By paying close attention to the health of the plant and taking prompt action when diseases or pests are detected, it is possible to keep Microstylis schliebenii Mansf. healthy and thriving.
