Overview
Nervilia humilis Schltr. is a rare and unusual terrestrial orchid that belongs to the family Orchidaceae. It is known by various common names, including Dwarf Nervilia, Humble Nervilia, and Grass Nervilia.
Origin
Nervilia humilis Schltr. is native to several countries in Southeast Asia, including Thailand, Vietnam, Laos, Cambodia, and Myanmar. It is usually found in damp, shady areas such as broad-leaved evergreen forests, limestone hills, and grassy slopes. The plant's natural habitats are unfortunately being threatened by deforestation, overgrazing, and habitat fragmentation.
Description
Nervilia humilis Schltr. is a small, delicate, and herbaceous perennial plant that grows up to 8 cm tall. It has a single ovate or cordate leaf that is green with purple veins. The flower spike also grows from the center of the rosette and is 5 to 10 cm tall. On the spike, there are about 6 to 10 small flowers, each one being around 0.8 to 1.2 cm across. The flowers are brownish-purple, and their petals and sepals are similar in shape, forming a hood over the column. The lip is three-lobed and turns upward.
Uses
Nervilia humilis Schltr. may not have significant commercial or medicinal value compared to other orchids, but it is valued for its rarity and beauty. Some people cultivate it as a courtyard plant or ornamental plant. Others consider it a symbol of protection against evil spirits. Some local people also use the plant's leaves or bulbs as a source of traditional medicine.
Overall, Nervilia humilis Schltr. is one of nature's charming and diminutive plants that deserves conservation efforts to preserve its beauty and ecological importance.
Light Requirements
Nervilia humilis Schltr. typically prefers shaded growing conditions with partial to full shade.
Temperature Requirements
The plant is commonly found in tropical climates, and prefers warm to hot temperatures between 20°C to 30°C. It can tolerate a wide range of temperatures but will not survive frost conditions.
Soil Requirements
Nervilia humilis Schltr. thrives in soil that is well-draining, slightly acidic to neutral with pH levels ranging from 5.5 to 7.0. The soil should also be rich in organic matter and nutrients. It prefers moist but not waterlogged soil. Good soil drainage is important to prevent the growth of fungi that can cause rot in the plant roots.
Cultivation Methods for Nervilia humilis Schltr.
Nervilia humilis Schltr. is a delicate terrestrial orchid that grows well in warm, humid conditions. The plant can be cultivated outdoors in a shaded area or indoors under artificial light.
If you choose to cultivate the plant outdoors, ensure that the soil is well-draining, rich in organic matter, and slightly acidic. The plant prefers a moist soil environment, and it is advisable to mulch the surrounding soil to keep the roots cool and moist during hot summer weather.
If you wish to keep the plant indoors, you can use a well-draining potting mix and place the pot near a west or east-facing window for adequate sunlight exposure.
Watering Needs for Nervilia humilis Schltr.
Nervilia humilis Schltr. requires frequent watering to keep the soil moist. Water the plant at least once every three days during hot periods and reduce the watering frequency during colder seasons.
It is crucial to avoid overwatering the plant as this can lead to root rot. To ensure that the soil moisture is optimal, insert your finger about an inch deep in the soil. If the soil feels dry, it's time for watering.
Fertilization of Nervilia humilis Schltr.
When it comes to fertilization, Nervilia humilis Schltr. thrives well in a nutrient-rich environment. Apply a slow-release, balanced fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season (spring and summer) to enhance growth and flowering.
It's advisable to use organic fertilizers, and mix them with the soil or use a liquid fertilizer and add it to the watering can. Avoid fertilizing the plant during the dormant season (fall and winter).
Pruning for Nervilia humilis Schltr.
Nervilia humilis Schltr. does not require pruning as it does not grow tall. However, removing dead or damaged leaves will enhance the plant's aesthetic appeal and prevent pests and diseases from attacking the plant.
When removing dead leaves, ensure that you use a sharp sterilized knife to minimize the damage to the plant. Place the knife in a solution of 70% alcohol for disinfection.
Propagation of Nervilia humilis Schltr.
Nervilia humilis Schltr, also known as the ground orchid or delicate orchid, is a terrestrial orchid plant species found in tropical Asia. It is an herbaceous plant that grows up to 12 cm in height with long, slender leaves and attractive violet-colored flowers. Propagation of N. humilis can be done through various methods such as seed propagation, vegetative propagation, and tissue culture.
Seed Propagation
Propagation of N. humilis through seed is possible, but it is a difficult and slow process. The seed germination rate is usually low, and it may take several months to germinate. The ideal time to harvest the seeds is when the capsules begin to dry out and crack open, but not to the point where the seeds are dispersed. The seeds should be sown immediately in a well-draining, nutrient-rich soil mix. The soil must be kept moist and warm, preferably at a temperature between 20-25°C. Germination will occur within 3-4 months, and it is essential to keep the young seedlings away from direct sunlight. Seed propagation is most effective in a controlled environment such as a greenhouse.
Vegetative Propagation
Vegetative propagation is a reliable propagation method for N. humilis and involves dividing the rhizomes of mature plants. Rhizome segments with new shoots or buds can be collected, planted with their tips exposed, and covered with a light layer of soil. The soil should be kept moist, and the plants should be protected from direct sunlight until the new growth is established. This method is typically used when propagating large quantities of plants for commercial purposes.
Tissue Culture
Tissue culture is the most efficient method for propagating N. humilis. It involves the in vitro culturing of cells or tissues under sterile conditions. Tissue culture can produce a large number of plants in a short period, and it allows for the production of disease-free plants that are genetically identical to the parent plant. The process involves taking small pieces of the plant, sterilizing them, and placing them in a nutrient-rich medium. The medium must be maintained at a constant temperature, and the plants must be kept in sterile conditions. Within weeks, the small pieces of plants will develop into fully grown plants ready for planting.
Disease Management
Nervilia humilis Schltr. is generally a hardy plant and is not very susceptible to disease. However, like any other plant, it may develop some diseases. The common diseases that affect Nervilia humilis include:
- Fungal leaf spot: This disease appears as circular or angular yellow or brown spots on the plant's leaves. To manage this disease, the affected leaves should be removed and destroyed. Fungicides may also be applied, following the manufacturer's instructions.
- Rhizome rot: This disease attacks the plant's rhizomes, causing soft and decaying tissue. To prevent this disease, do not overwater the plant and avoid planting it in heavy soils. Infected plants should be removed and destroyed, and the soil should be disinfected by solarization or using fungicides.
Pest Management
Nervilia humilis Schltr. may also attract some pests, including:
- Scale insects: These tiny insects attach themselves to the plant's stems and leaves, sucking sap and causing the plant's growth to be stunted. To manage scale insects, they can be removed by hand, or an insecticide may be applied following the manufacturer's instructions.
- Spider mites: Spider mites are tiny pests that feed on the plant's leaves, causing them to appear stippled and discolored. To manage spider mites, you can use insecticidal soap or neem oil as a spray on the plant's leaves. You can also increase humidity around the plant, which will discourage spider mites from settling in.
Regular inspection of the plant will help in early detection of any disease or pest infestation, making it easier to manage and control. Ensure that the plant is grown in ideal conditions, including proper watering, fertilization, and sunlight exposure, which will enhance its ability to resist diseases and pests.
