Overview
Neobolusia stolzii Schltr. var. bombyliflora P.J.Cribb is a species of flowering plant in the family Orchidaceae. It is commonly known as the silky-flowered Neobolusia.
Origin
Native to the eastern regions of Southern Africa, specifically Zimbabwe and Mozambique, this plant thrives in tropical and subtropical areas.
Appearance
The silky-flowered Neobolusia has symmetrical flowers that can be bright yellow, golden green, and have a unique fragrance. It can grow to a height of about 30 cm at most and has a single dark-green leaf that is long.
Uses
The silky-flowered Neobolusia is a popular ornamental plant in many regions, particularly in Southern Africa. Orchid collectors and enthusiasts are particularly fond of this plant due to its delightful fragrance and unique appearance.
Light Requirements
Neobolusia stolzii Schltr. var. bombyliflora P.J.Cribb requires bright, indirect light. Direct sunlight can burn the leaves and stunt growth. Therefore, it's best to place the plant in an east or west-facing window. If the plant is grown under artificial light, make sure to provide at least 12 hours of bright light per day.
Temperature Requirements
This orchid variety requires a consistent temperature between 16 and 24 °C (61 and 75 °F). During the day, temperatures should be around 22 °C (72 °F), with a slight dip to 18 °C (64 °F) at night. It's essential to keep the plant away from cold drafts, such as open windows and air conditioning units. High levels of humidity are also crucial for this plant's growth and can be achieved by placing a humidity tray nearby or using a humidifier.
Soil Requirements
Neobolusia stolzii Schltr. var. bombyliflora P.J.Cribb grows best in well-draining, coarse soil. Fine soil can hold too much moisture, leading to root rot. The ideal mix consists of bark, perlite, and sphagnum moss in equal parts. The plant should be repotted every two years to prevent overcrowding, which can impede growth. During the growing season, it's essential to fertilize the plant monthly using a balanced orchid fertilizer diluted to half-strength.
Cultivation Methods:
Neobolusia stolzii Schltr. var. bombyliflora P.J.Cribb, commonly known as the African butterfly orchid, is a terrestrial orchid that can be grown in pots, preferably with an airy, well-draining substrate like sphagnum moss or a mix of pine bark, perlite, and coconut coir. It thrives in warm to hot conditions with bright, filtered light, and appreciates good air circulation. The orchid can be propagated by seed or dividing the bulbs when they have four or more pseudobulbs.
Watering Needs:
The orchids should be watered frequently during the growing season, from spring to autumn, and less often during winter dormancy. The substrate should be kept moist but not waterlogged, and allowed to dry slightly between waterings. Rainwater or distilled water is preferable to tap water, which may contain chlorine and fluoride that could harm the plant's roots. Overwatering or underwatering can cause yellowing leaves or rotting roots.
Fertilization:
Neobolusia stolzii Schltr. var. bombyliflora P.J.Cribb requires regular fertilization during the growth period. A balanced, water-soluble fertilizer with equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, such as 20-20-20 or 10-10-10, can be applied at half strength once a week during the growing season, or as directed on the label. Avoid fertilizing when the orchid is in dormancy. Excessive or incorrect fertilization can damage the roots and reduce flowering.
Pruning:
Pruning is not necessary for Neobolusia stolzii Schltr. var. bombyliflora P.J.Cribb and should be avoided unless a bulb has died or is diseased, in which case it can be removed with sterilized scissors or shears. The orchid should be allowed to grow naturally and form new pseudobulbs each season. The wilted or yellowed leaves can be gently removed from the base of the plant to improve its appearance, but healthy leaves should not be cut.
Propagation of Neobolusia stolzii Schltr. var. bombyliflora P.J.Cribb
Neobolusia stolzii Schltr. var. bombyliflora P.J.Cribb, commonly known as the Giant Orchid, can be propagated through different methods. The propagation of Neobolusia stolzii Schltr. var. bombyliflora P.J.Cribb can either be done through division, seed, or tissue culture.
Division
Propagation through division is done during the plant's dormant period, which is during the winter season. This method involves dividing the plant into two or more clumps, ensuring that each clump has a sufficient number of bulbs and roots. The newly divided clumps should be planted in well-draining soil or substrate mix and watered moderately. The plant will start growing in about a month or two after planting.
Seed
Propagation through seeds can be done all year round, but it is best done in the spring season. Sow the small seeds in a fine seedling mixture, ensuring they are evenly spaced, and water thoroughly. Place the tray of seedlings in a warm temperature and humid area with bright, indirect light. The seeds will germinate within four to six weeks, and the new plantlets can be transplanted after they have grown to a manageable size.
Tissue Culture
Propagation through tissue culture is a popular method for orchids. It involves taking a small piece of tissue from the plant and growing it in sterile conditions on a petri dish with a nutrient-rich agar medium. The process involves the growth of new plantlets from that small tissue. These plantlets can be transferred to pots or mounted on a substrate once they have grown to a specific size.
Disease Management
The Neobolusia stolzii Schltr. var. bombyliflora P.J.Cribb is susceptible to several diseases that can affect its overall growth and appearance. Some common diseases that might affect this plant include:
- Bacterial Soft Rot: This disease is caused by bacteria that infect the plant's soft tissues, leading to the rotting of roots, stems, and leaves. To manage this disease, it's crucial to remove and destroy infected plant parts as soon as you spot them. The use of fungicides can also help prevent the spread of the bacteria.
- Viral Diseases: Viral diseases are difficult to see and usually spread through infected plant material such as pollen and seeds. Infected plants cannot be cured, and therefore prevention is the best approach. Ensure that you use certified disease-free seeds and avoid planting this orchid near infected plants.
- Fungal Diseases: There are several fungal diseases that might affect the Neobolusia stolzii Schltr. var. bombyliflora P.J.Cribb. Examples include Fusarium Wilt, Powdery Mildew, and Black Spot. Once you identify any of these diseases in your orchid, it's advisable to remove the infected leaves and use fungicides to manage the spread.
Pest Management
There are several pest species that might infest the Neobolusia stolzii Schltr. var. bombyliflora P.J.Cribb. Some of the common pests are:
- Spider Mites: These pests love dry environments and usually thrive in hot weather. They suck the plant's sap, leading to wilting and yellowing of leaves. Use of insecticides such as neem oil can effectively manage spider mites infestation on the orchid.
- Scale Insects: Scale insects attach themselves to the plant's stem, leaves, and roots, causing damage to its overall health and appearance. The use of insecticidal soap or neem oil can help control their population.
- Mealybugs: Mealybugs are small, soft-bodied insects that secrete a white, waxy substance around their bodies. They suck sap from the plant, leading to stunted growth, and yellowing of leaves. The use of insecticidal soap, neem oil, or alcohol-soaked cotton swabs can be effective for managing mealybugs infestation.
Regular monitoring of your orchid will help identify any pest or disease problems early enough before they cause significant damage. Also, it's essential to maintain proper sanitation practices in your garden to keep pests and diseases at bay.
