Description of Nervilia erosa P.J.Cribb
Nervilia erosa P.J.Cribb, commonly known as the Nerve Orchid, is a rare, terrestrial herbaceous plant species belonging to the Orchidaceae family. The plant is native to Southeast Asia, particularly in Thailand, Laos, Vietnam, and China, where it thrives in wet areas such as forests, swamps, and wetlands.
Appearance
The Nerve Orchid plant grows up to 10 cm in height, and it has thin, fibrous roots that shoot from an underground bulb. Its leaves are large, entire, and cordate, usually measuring around 6 - 10 cm long and 5 - 8 cm wide. The plant also produces a single pinkish to dark brown flower on a long stem, usually measuring 3 – 5 cm long and 2 – 3 cm wide.
Common Names
The Nerve Orchid has several vernacular names such as Yebaw Taung-Kya-wan in Myanmar, Da Di Lan in China, Chomphu Ngoen in Thailand, and Lan Tay in Vietnam.
Uses of Nervilia Erosa P.J.Cribb
The Nerve Orchid is not only a beautiful ornamental plant but also has medicinal properties that have been utilized in Southeast Asian traditional medicine. The plant's underground rhizome contains several compounds such as terpenoids and flavonoids, which have shown to possess antipyretic, anti-inflammatory, and anti-tumor activities. Its extracts are used in the treatment of fever, digestive disorders, measles, mumps, and skin infections.
In conclusion, Nervilia Erosa P.J.Cribb is an ornamental and medicinal plant species from Southeast Asia that is valued for its beauty and traditional medicinal properties.
Growth Conditions for Nervilia erosa P.J.Cribb
Light: Nervilia erosa P.J.Cribb grows in bright but diffused light environments. It is typically found growing on forest floors with filtered light.
Temperature: Nervilia erosa P.J.Cribb thrives in warm environments with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C during the day and 15°C to 20°C at night.
Soil Requirements: Nervilia erosa P.J.Cribb prefers slightly acidic, well-draining soils that are rich in organic matter. It grows best in soils with pH ranging from 5.5 to 6.5.
As an epiphyte, Nervilia erosa P.J.Cribb can also grow on other plants, including mosses, ferns, and logs, but requires moist conditions with high humidity.
It is essential to keep the soil moist, but not waterlogged, to prevent root rot. Adequate watering and regular application of a balanced fertilizer will promote the healthy growth of this species.
Cultivation
Nervilia erosa P.J.Cribb, commonly known as the Nerve Orchid, requires well-draining soil that can retain moisture. It grows well in partial to complete shade with high humidity levels. The plant can be grown in pots or in the ground if the soil meets the requirements. Nerve Orchids thrive in warm temperatures and do not tolerate frost. It is recommended to keep the plant in temperatures between 20°C (68°F) and 26°C (78°F).
Watering Needs
Nerve Orchids like to be kept consistently moist, but not waterlogged. It is advisable to water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry. During the growing season, typically from spring to autumn, the plant should be watered frequently, but in the winter, the water should be reduced. Water collected from rain or distilled water is ideal for Nerve Orchids. Avoid using tap water with a high concentration of dissolved minerals, which can harm the plant.
Fertilization
Nerve Orchids require regular feeding during the growing season. Use a balanced liquid fertilizer that is half strength and apply it every two weeks. In the winter, reduce the amount of fertilizer or stop feeding altogether. Overfertilization can cause some parts of the plant to die off.
Pruning
Nerve Orchids do not require regular pruning. However, dead and decaying leaves should be removed throughout the growing season to prevent the spread of disease. The removal of spent flowers can also encourage the plant to continue blooming, however, let the stalk completely dry before cutting. Cutting too soon can cause the plant to develop mold or fungus.
Propagation of Nervilia erosa P.J.Cribb
Nervilia erosa P.J.Cribb is a small terrestrial orchid that can be propagated through different methods such as division, seed sowing, and tissue culture.
Division
Division is the easiest method to propagate Nervilia erosa P.J.Cribb. This method involves separating the plant's clump into smaller sections and repotting each division into a new pot. It is best to carry out division during the plant's dormant period, after it has finished flowering and its leaves have withered. Each division should have three to five pseudobulbs to ensure that they can develop into independent plants.
Seed Sowing
Seed sowing is another effective way to propagate Nervilia erosa P.J.Cribb. The seeds can be collected after the plant has finished flowering and the seed pods have dried up. After collecting the seeds, they should be cleaned and sown on a sterile medium such as sphagnum moss. The seeds should be covered lightly with the medium and kept moist. The pot should be placed in a shaded area with good air circulation. Germination will take place within four to six weeks, after which the young plants can be gradually exposed to bright light.
Tissue Culture
Tissue culture is a more complex method of propagating Nervilia erosa P.J.Cribb but it is useful for producing a large number of plants that have the same characteristics as the parent plant. The process involves taking small pieces of the plant tissue and growing them under sterile conditions, in a nutrient-rich medium. Once the plantlets have developed roots, they can be transferred to pots and grown to maturity.
Disease and Pest Management for Nervilia erosa P.J.Cribb
The Nervilia erosa P.J.Cribb, popularly known as the ‘Nerve Wart’ is a small orchid species that is native to the African continent. This beautiful and unique plant is susceptible to a variety of diseases and pests that can cause damage and even death if not effectively managed.
Diseases
One of the most common diseases that affects Nervilia erosa P.J.Cribb is bacterial soft rot. This is a bacterial infection that mainly affects the roots and tubers of the plant, causing them to soften and rot. To manage this disease, it is essential to remove the infected plants from the healthy ones and destroy them. The use of copper-based fungicides can also be effective in preventing the spread of the disease.
Fungal leaf spots are also a common disease that affects this plant. These leaf spots manifest as circular or irregular brown spots on the leaves. To manage this disease, it is necessary to prune the infected parts of the plant and destroy them. Fungicides, such as copper-based ones, can also be used as a preventive measure.
Pests
Nervilia erosa P.J.Cribb is also susceptible to a range of pests, including mites, snails, slugs, and aphids. Mites feed on the leaves of the plant, causing them to discolor and wilt. The use of insecticides such as pyrethroids or neonicotinoids can be effective in managing the mites.
Snails and slugs mainly feed on the leaves of the plant, leaving behind large holes. Handpicking and destroying them is an effective way of managing these pests. Additionally, the use of baits, such as beer, can also attract and kill them.
Aphids are tiny insects that feed on the sap of the plant, leading to stunted growth and deformities. The application of insecticides, such as pyrethroids or neonicotinoids, is an effective way of managing aphids.
Conclusion
By implementing effective disease and pest management strategies, it is possible to prevent the damage and death of Nervilia erosa P.J.Cribb plants. Prompt action, such as pruning and destroying infected parts and the use of appropriate fungicides and insecticides, can go a long way in maintaining the health and beauty of this unique plant.
