Origin
Nervilia grandiflora Schltr. is a terrestrial orchid that belongs to the family Orchidaceae. It is commonly found in the tropical and subtropical regions of Asia, including India, Myanmar, Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, Vietnam, Malaysia, Indonesia, and the Philippines.
Common Names
The plant is commonly known as the Large-flowered Nervilia or simply Nervilia. In some regions of Asia, it is also known as the Devil's Claw orchid.
Uses
The plant has been utilized in traditional medicine to treat a variety of ailments including respiratory and liver disorders, fever, inflammation, and pain relief. It is also used as a tonic and as an aphrodisiac. Some species of the Nervilia plant are used as a food source, and the tubers are eaten raw or cooked in Southeast Asia and India.
General Appearance
The Nervilia grandiflora Schltr. plant is a small and delicate orchid with a height ranging from 10 to 25 cm. The plant has an erect stem with one or two leaves, which are broad and ovate in shape. The flowers are usually solitary and appear from the leaf axils. The flowers are large and showy, with the sepals and petals forming a purple-brown or green-brown colour, while the lip is usually white with purple-brown veins. The plant has small, round, and fleshy tubers that grow underground.
Light Requirements
The plant Nervilia grandiflora Schltr. prefers moderate shade to filtered sunlight. Direct sunlight can scorch its leaves.
Temperature Requirements
This plant grows well in warm temperatures ranging between 18-28°C. It can tolerate a minimum temperature of 10°C and a maximum temperature of 35°C. It is crucial to avoid exposing the plant to chilly drafts or sudden temperature drops.
Soil Requirements
Nervilia grandiflora Schltr. prefers well-drained soils that are slightly acidic to neutral. It is important to ensure that the soil is rich in nutrients and organic matter. This plant cannot tolerate waterlogged soils and can suffer from root rot. It also requires consistent soil moisture levels, and the soil should never become completely dry.
Cultivation Methods
Nervilia grandiflora Schltr., commonly known as the butterfly orchid, is a terrestrial orchid species that can be propagated through seed germination and division. The best time to plant the seeds is in spring, when the temperature range is between 20°C and 30°C. The seedlings should be planted in well-draining soil mix, containing sand, peat moss, and perlite, to ensure proper root development. The light should be filtered, with 50% shade, to avoid direct sunlight exposure.
When propagating through division, the best time to divide the plants is in autumn or winter, during the plant's dormant period. The division should be done carefully to avoid damaging the roots, and each division should have at least three leafy shoots. The new plants should be planted in the same type of soil mix as seedlings, and the same care should be taken to avoid direct sunlight exposure, especially in the first few weeks after transplantation.
Watering Needs
Nervilia grandiflora Schltr. requires moderate watering, particularly during its growing season, which is spring and summer. It is important to keep the soil moist, but not overly wet. Overwatering can lead to root rot, which is harmful to the plants. During autumn and winter, the plant enters a dormant state, and watering should be reduced to maintain slightly moist soil.
One method for determining if it is time to water the plant is to press your finger an inch deep into the soil. If the soil is dry, water the plant, but if it is still moist, wait a few more days before checking again. Remember to use room temperature water, as cold water can shock the roots.
Fertilization
Nervilia grandiflora Schltr. requires regular fertilization to promote healthy growth and flowering. During the growing season, apply a balanced fertilizer every two to three weeks. The best fertilizer for Nervilia grandiflora Schltr. is one that is rich in nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Avoid placing the fertilizer directly in contact with the plant's roots, as it may cause burns.
In addition to fertilizer, the soil should be enriched with organic matter. Organic matter helps to retain moisture and improve soil drainage. Adding compost, well-rotted manure or leaf mold to the soil mix can be beneficial.
Pruning
Nervilia grandiflora Schltr. does not require regular pruning. However, dead leaves and stems should be removed periodically to keep the plant healthy and maintain its aesthetic appeal. The leaves should be removed from the base of the plant, and dry or brown stems should be cut back to healthy tissue. Pruning is best done during the dormant phase in autumn or winter.
Propagation of Nervilia Grandiflora Schltr.
Nervilia Grandiflora Schltr. is a terrestrial orchid species that grows from tubers. Propagating this plant can be done through seed propagation or by division of the tuber.
Seed Propagation
Seeds of Nervilia Grandiflora Schltr. are very small and require proper handling during propagation. It is best to obtain seeds from a reputable source or from mature plants that have successfully produced seeds. The seeds need to be sowed on a medium with a well-drained mix of sphagnum moss, perlite and sand.
The seeds of Nervilia Grandiflora Schltr. require a dark, warm and humid environment to germinate. It is recommended to cover the seeds with a plastic sheet to create a microclimate around them. The temperature should be maintained at around 20 to 25°C. The seeds of Nervilia Grandiflora Schltr. can take a long time to germinate and may even take up to several months.
Division of Tuber
Nervilia Grandiflora Schltr. can also be propagated by dividing the tuber. This should be done during the dormant stage of the plant, which is usually during the winter months. The tuber can be divided into smaller sections with at least one bud or growth point on each section.
The divided sections should be planted in a well-drained growing medium that has been prepared with compost and sand of equal proportions. The divided sections should be watered immediately and kept in a warm and humid environment until new growth appears. Care should be taken during the first few weeks to avoid over-watering and ensure that the growing medium stays moist.
Propagation of Nervilia Grandiflora Schltr. through either seed or division of tubers can be rewarding but requires patience and careful attention to the growing medium and environment.
Disease and Pest Management for Nervilia grandiflora Schltr.
Nervilia grandiflora Schltr., commonly known as the large-flowered nervilia, is a terrestrial orchid native to Southeast Asia. As with many orchid species, N. grandiflora is susceptible to various diseases and pests that can significantly affect its growth and blooming.
Common Diseases
1. Black Rot: This is a fungal disease that causes black, necrotic lesions on leaves, stems, and roots. The affected tissues become soft and mushy, leading to wilting and plant death. Black rot is often caused by overwatering and poor drainage. To manage this disease, remove the affected parts of the plant and avoid overhead watering. Ensure proper air circulation and use fungicides as a last resort.
2. Leaf Spot: Leaf spot is a fungal disease that appears as brown spots with yellow halos on the leaves. It can cause premature leaf drop and weaken the plant. To manage this disease, remove the affected leaves and provide adequate spacing between plants for better air circulation. Avoid overhead watering and use fungicides according to the instructions.
Common Pests
1. Spider Mites: Spider mites are tiny, sap-sucking pests that can cause yellowing and stunted growth of the plant. They often thrive in dry conditions, so maintaining proper humidity can help prevent infestations. Use insecticides or predatory mites to manage severe infestations.
2. Mealybugs: These soft, cottony pests can cause distorted leaves, weak growth, and stunted flowering. They secrete a sticky substance that can attract ants and promote fungal growth. Use insecticidal soap or horticultural oil to manage mealybug infestations, and regularly remove affected leaves and debris.
3. Scale Insects: Scale insects are small, oval-shaped pests that feed on plant sap, causing yellowing, wilting, and leaf drop. They can also secrete a sticky substance that promotes fungal growth. Use horticultural oil or insecticidal soap to manage scale infestations, and prune away heavily infested plant parts.
In conclusion, disease and pest management is an essential aspect of orchid care, including for Nervilia grandiflora Schltr. Maintaining proper cultural conditions such as good air circulation, appropriate watering, and humidity levels can help prevent infestations and diseases. Additionally, regular monitoring and prompt management of identified pests and diseases can help ensure healthy and thriving N. grandiflora plants.
