Overview
Mystacidium diabolicum A.Chev. ex Aubrév. is a species of orchid that is native to the forests of West Africa. It belongs to the orchid family Orchidaceae and is known for its beautiful, unique appearance.
Common Names
Some of the common names of Mystacidium diabolicum A.Chev. ex Aubrév. include Devil's Mystacidium, Rufous Mystacidium, and Reddish Mystacidium.
Appearance
The plant has a creeping growth habit and typically grows up to 15 cm in height. It has glossy, leathery leaves that are arranged in a fan-like pattern. The flowers grow in clusters and are typically about 6 cm in diameter. They are bright reddish-orange in color and have an unusual, eye-catching appearance that is sure to draw attention.
Uses
Although Mystacidium diabolicum A.Chev. ex Aubrév. is primarily grown as an ornamental plant, it has some medicinal uses as well. Some indigenous cultures in West Africa use the plant as a remedy for back pain, fever, and headaches. It is also believed to have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.
Typical growth conditions for Mystacidium diabolicum A.Chev. ex Aubrév.
Light: Mystacidium diabolicum A.Chev. ex Aubrév. requires bright, filtered sunlight to grow properly.
Temperature: The plant prefers moderate temperatures ranging from 18 to 25 degrees Celsius. It can withstand occasional temperature drops to 10 degrees Celsius but may not survive prolonged exposure to lower temperatures.
Humidity: Consistent humidity and moisture are essential for healthy growth. The ideal humidity range is between 50 to 80%, and growers should ensure that the plant does not dry out.
Air circulation: Adequate air circulation is critical to prevent stagnant moisture and maintain the plants' health.
Soil requirements: Mystacidium diabolicum A.Chev. ex Aubrév. grows well in well-draining bark-based soil mixes. The plant is epiphytic, and so it generally prefers to grow in a substrate rather than soil. As a result, growers should employ a mixture of nutrient-rich and slightly acidic substrates for ideal growth conditions.
Watering: The plant requires regular watering, and growers must ensure that the substrate stays moist. The grower must also be careful not to overwater the plant, which can lead to root rot.
Fertilizer: Mystacidium diabolicum A.Chev. ex Aubrév. benefits from regular fertilization with a balanced orchid fertilizer. Growers should feed the plant once or twice a month during the growing season and ensure that they flush out any residual fertilizer salts during watering.
Other factors: When growing Mystacidium diabolicum A.Chev. ex Aubrév., growers should keep the plant away from drafts and direct sunlight. Furthermore, the growers must be careful not to allow the plant to dry out and avoid sudden changes in temperature or humidity.
Cultivation Methods for Mystacidium diabolicum A.Chev. ex Aubrév.
Mystacidium diabolicum A.Chev. ex Aubrév. is a fascinating plant that can be cultivated indoors or outdoors. This plant thrives in a humid environment with indirect sunlight. The plant needs to be placed in bright but indirect light so that its leaves do not get scorched. The ideal location for the plant is near a north or east-facing window where it can receive filtered light.
The plant prefers to be grown in a well-draining medium. It can be grown in sphagnum moss, coarse bark, or a mixture of both. The plant has aerial roots that seek out moisture and nutrients.
Watering Needs for Mystacidium diabolicum A.Chev. ex Aubrév.
Mystacidium diabolicum A.Chev. ex Aubrév. requires frequent watering as it thrives in a humid environment. The plant should be watered when the top of the medium feels dry to the touch. Water should be poured over the roots and allowed to drain out of the bottom of the pot.
The plant prefers to be watered with rainwater or distilled water as it is sensitive to chemicals and minerals present in tap water. If tap water is used, it should be allowed to stand for a day to allow the chlorine to evaporate.
Fertilization for Mystacidium diabolicum A.Chev. ex Aubrév.
The plant requires regular fertilization to thrive. It can be fertilized every two weeks during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. A fertilizer high in nitrogen should be used during the early stages of growth, while a fertilizer high in phosphorus should be used during the blooming stage.
The plant is sensitive to fertilizer salts, and any excessive buildup can burn the roots. Therefore, the plant should be watered regularly to flush out any salt buildup.
Pruning for Mystacidium diabolicum A.Chev. ex Aubrév.
Pruning is an essential part of Mystacidium diabolicum A.Chev. ex Aubrév. care. The plant produces long, flowing stems that can get out of control. The stems should be cut back to keep the plant in shape.
Flower spikes should also be cut back after blooming to encourage the growth of new flowers. The plant can be propagated by cutting a piece of the stem with roots and planting it in moist sphagnum moss or coarse bark.
Propagation of Mystacidium diabolicum A.Chev. ex Aubrév.
Mystacidium diabolicum A.Chev. ex Aubrév. can be propagated by using several methods such as:
Division of pseudobulbs
The plant can be propagated by dividing the pseudobulbs during the dormant season. This process is best done when the plant has finished flowering, and the growth is at a minimum. Carefully remove the plant from its pot and gently pull apart the pseudobulbs, ensuring that each division has enough roots to sustain growth.
Leaf-cutting propagation
This method involves taking a sharp and sterile blade and cutting a healthy leaf into sections. The sections should be approximately 3-5cm and have a node on them. Dip each cutting into hormone rooting powder and place it into a pot of well-draining potting mix. Keep the soil moist and warm and wait for roots to develop.
Meristem culture
Meristem culture is a propagation method that involves taking tissue samples from the plant's tips and culturing them in a sterile medium. This method ensures that the new plants are free from disease and pests. It is essential to use sterile tools to avoid contamination. This method requires specific laboratory equipment and is not commonly used by home gardeners.
Seed propagation
Although Mystacidium diabolicum A.Chev. ex Aubrév. can be propagated by seed, it's not a common method. The plant's flowers produce capsules filled with numerous small seeds. To propagate using seeds, plant seedlings in a well-draining potting mix with perlite or vermiculite. Seeds may take several weeks or months to germinate, so be patient. Seedlings require warm temperatures, consistent moisture, and bright light.
Disease and Pest Management for Mystacidium diabolicum A.Chev. ex Aubrév.
Mystacidium diabolicum A.Chev. ex Aubrév. is a beautiful orchid species that is highly valued for its ornamental flowers. However, like any other ornamental plant, this species is susceptible to several pests and diseases. Here we discuss some common diseases and pests that affect Mystacidium diabolicum, and ways to manage them.
Diseases
Bacterial soft rot: This is a common bacterial disease that affects several orchids, including Mystacidium diabolicum. It is caused by Erwinia carotovora and Pectobacterium spp. and is characterized by soft, watery lesions on the leaves, stems, and flowers. To manage this disease, remove and destroy all infected plant parts, apply copper-based fungicides, and practice good cultural practices that limit the growth and spread of the bacteria.
Fungal leaf spots: This disease is caused by several fungal pathogens, including Alternaria spp., Cercospora spp., and Phoma spp. It appears as small to large circular spots on the leaves. To manage this disease, remove the infected leaves, and avoid overhead irrigation. Applying fungicides containing copper, sulfur, or chlorothalonil can also help control fungal leaf spots.
Viral diseases: Several viruses, including Cymbidium mosaic virus and Odontoglossum ringspot virus, can affect Mystacidium diabolicum. Infected plants may show yellowing, stunting, and distortions. Unfortunately, there's no cure for viruses, and infected plants must be isolated and destroyed to prevent the spread of the virus to other orchids.
Pests
Scale insects: Scale insects are common pests that feed on the sap of the plant, causing stunted growth, yellowing, and leaf drop. To manage scale insects, you can remove the scales manually with a soft brush or cotton swab dipped in alcohol. You can also apply insecticidal soap or horticultural oil to the plant.
Mealybugs: These sap-sucking insects hide in the leaf axils and produce a white, powdery substance that resembles cotton. Mealybug infestation can cause stunted growth, yellowing, and leaf drop. To manage mealybugs, you can remove them manually with a soft brush or cotton swab dipped in alcohol. You can also apply insecticidal soap or horticultural oil to the plant.
Spider mites: These tiny pests feed on the plant sap, causing mottled leaves, webbing, and leaf drop. To manage spider mites, you can spray the plant with a fine mist of water to wash them off or apply insecticidal soap or horticultural oil to the plant.
In conclusion, Mystacidium diabolicum A.Chev. ex Aubrév. is a beautiful orchid species that is susceptible to several pests and diseases. However, with proper care, including regular inspection and early intervention, you can effectively manage and control pests and diseases and keep your plant healthy and thriving.
