Origin of Mystacidium pusillum Harv.
Mystacidium pusillum Harv. is a species of orchid found in the eastern parts of South Africa. It is commonly found in regions like KwaZulu-Natal, Eastern Cape, Free State, Limpopo, and Mpumalanga. The plant grows in damp areas like stream banks, rock crevices, and densely shaded forests.
Common Names of Mystacidium pusillum Harv.
Mystacidium pusillum Harv. is commonly referred to by several names such as Dwarf Mystacidium and Small Mystacidium. In indigenous communities, it is referred to as Inkluze, which means 'small black fly' in Zulu, due to the plant's sweet fragrance that attracts small insects.
Uses of Mystacidium pusillum Harv.
Mystacidium pusillum Harv. is primarily grown for its ornamental value, as it is a popular choice among avid orchid collectors. Its striking vibrant pink and purple flowers bloom in summer and emanate a sweet fragrance that fills the surroundings. The plant is also used in traditional medicine to treat several ailments, including diarrhea, dysentery, and stomach cramps.
General Appearance of Mystacidium pusillum Harv.
Mystacidium pusillum Harv. is a small orchid that typically measures between 10-20 cm in height. It has thin and fleshy leaves that grow up to 5 cm in length and cluster at the base of the plant. The flowers of Mystacidium pusillum Harv. are pink and purple in color, with a dark purple center. The plant often produces up to ten flowers with a diameter of approximately 1.5 cm. Mystacidium pusillum Harv. thrives in damp and warm conditions with a well-drained soil medium rich in organic matter.
Light Requirements
The Mystacidium pusillum Harv. plant is typically accustomed to living in bright, indirect light. It needs approximately eight hours of sun exposure daily. A lack of light can make the plant's leaves turn yellow or brown. However, too much direct sunlight can burn the leaves. Therefore, it is recommended to expose the plant to morning or late afternoon sunlight.
Temperature Requirements
The Mystacidium pusillum Harv. plant can survive in temperatures between 12°C to 30°C, but it thrives best in a range of 18°C to 26°C. The plant can suffer from cold damage at temperatures below 10°C or heat damage at temperatures above 30°C. Therefore, it is crucial to keep the plant away from windows or doors where temperature fluctuations due to drafts could occur.
Soil Requirements
The Mystacidium pusillum Harv. plant requires well-draining soil that holds water without becoming waterlogged. The soil should be a mixture of sphagnum peat moss, perlite or vermiculite, and coarse sand. The pH level of the soil should be between 5.5 to 6.5. Fertilizers for orchids can be used to improve the plant's growth by adding extra nitrogen, potassium, and phosphorus, which are essential nutrients for the plant. Watering the plant once a week is usually enough to ensure it receives sufficient moisture.
Cultivation
Mystacidium pusillum Harv. is a terrestrial orchid that is suited for both indoor and outdoor cultivation. The plant requires bright, indirect light to grow and can thrive in a range of temperatures. It is best to grow it in well-draining soil, which can be enriched with peat moss or coconut coir for better growth. The plant requires good air circulation, and hence it is advised to keep the plant in a well-ventilated area.
Watering Needs
The plant requires regular watering to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Watering twice a week is sufficient, and it is advisable to allow the soil to dry slightly between watering. Overwatering can lead to root rot and damage the plant. Keeping the soil moist with a humidity tray or misting the foliage can also help the plant thrive.
Fertilization
Mystacidium pusillum Harv. requires regular fertilization to promote healthy growth. Applying a balanced orchid fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season can help the plant produce stronger stems and more vibrant leaves. It is important not to over-fertilize the plant, as this can cause salt build-up and damage the roots. Hence, it is advisable to follow the application instructions on the fertilizer packaging.
Pruning
Pruning is essential to keep Mystacidium pusillum Harv. healthy and ensure abundant blooming. It is best to prune the plant in the early spring before the growing season starts. Prune the dead foliage and any damaged leaves to promote new growth. Gently removing the dead or yellowing flowers can also encourage the plant to rebloom. It is crucial to use a sharp and sanitized pair of pruners to avoid any damage to the plant.
Propagation of Mystacidium pusillum Harv.
Mystacidium pusillum Harv. is a rare and delicate orchid species that is endemic to Southern Africa. Due to its rarity, propagation of this orchid is essential for its conservation. The following are the propagation methods of this plant:
Propagation via Seed
Propagation via seed is the most common method used for Mystacidium pusillum Harv. The seeds are minute and dust-like and require a sterile environment to germinate successfully. The seeds should be sown on a sterilized petri dish filled with a nutrient-rich orchid medium. The petri dish should then be covered with cling film and left in a warm and bright location to germinate.
Propagation via Division
Mystacidium pusillum Harv. can also be propagated through division. This method is most effective when the plant is mature and has formed several pseudobulbs. The plant should be carefully removed from its pot, and the pseudobulbs should be gently separated. Each section should have at least two pseudobulbs and some healthy roots attached. The sections should be planted in a suitable potting medium and kept in a warm and humid location until they have established new roots.
Propagation via Tissue Culture
Propagation via tissue culture is a more advanced method that requires a sterile laboratory environment. Small pieces of tissue are taken from the plant and grown in a nutrient-rich agar medium. The tissues will eventually form small plantlets that can be grown into mature plants. This method is useful for preserving rare and endangered orchid species like Mystacidium pusillum Harv.
Disease Management
Mystacidium pusillum Harv. is susceptible to various foliar and stem diseases, including leaf spots, rust, and black rot. Leaf spots most often occur when the plant is exposed to high moisture levels or during extended periods of rain. Rust is often caused by the fungus Phakopsora euvitis and manifest as rusty-orange pustules on the leaves. Black rot, caused by the fungus Botryosphaeria obtusa, causes dark, black spots on the leaves, arms, and the plant's base.
To manage foliar and stem disease, maintain proper cultivation methods, including good drainage and adequate ventilation. When possible, avoid overwatering and direct water to the plant's base and avoid moistening foliage. In case of serious infection, use a fungicide according to package instructions. Furthermore, disposing of infected plant materials and fall cleanup will reduce the risk of infection in the subsequent season.
Pest Management
Common pests that harm Mystacidium pusillum Harv. include spider mites, scale insects, and mealybugs. Spider mites suck sap from the leaves, resulting in leaf drop and yellowing. Scale insects stick to the plant's branches and produce a sticky residue, and mealybugs look like white woolly masses on the plant's leaves.
To manage these pests, maintain good hygiene and remove any dead leaves and debris from around the plant to reduce the likelihood of infestation. Consider chemical treatments, including neem oil and insecticidal soap, when the appearance of pests is edging toward an infestation. Regularly inspect the plant's leaves and stems to spot the pests so you can manage and control them before causing severe damage.
