Overview of Nervilia purpurata
Nervilia purpurata (Rchb.f. & Sond.) Schltr. is a terrestrial orchid that belongs to the Orchidaceae family. It is commonly known as the Purple Nervilia and grows in various regions throughout Asia, including China, Bhutan, India, and Nepal. This plant prefers to grow in a shady, damp forest environment, with the elevation of up to 2800 meters.
Appearance of Nervilia purpurata
The Purple Nervilia typically grows up to 20 cm high and has a small tuberous structure. The plant has two elongated leaves that are round or heart-shaped and marked with purple veins. A single flower blooms from the center of the leaves with a single slender stem. The flower is typically light-purple to pale pink, and sometimes white, with delicate long and drooping petals.
Traditional Uses of Nervilia purpurata
Nervilia purpurata has played an important role in traditional medicine in many regions of Asia. Its tuberous roots have been used in concoctions for conditions like cough, sore throat, and fever. Additionally, the plant parts have been utilized as a remedy for skin irritations, dysentery, and anemia.
The plant is also thought to have properties that can help enhance male fertility. The aerial parts of Purple Nervilia have been employed as a diuretic and as a traditional tonic for renal insufficiency or fatigue.
Conclusion
Nervilia purpurata is a fascinating plant with its striking purple veins and delicate flowers. While primarily used for its medicinal properties, it also has aesthetic value in landscaping and gardening. Gardeners and enthusiasts should note that Purple Nervilia is a protected species, and thus, any propagation or use should be carefully managed and regulated.
Growth Conditions for Nervilia purpurata
Light: Nervilia purpurata requires moderate shade and does not tolerate direct sunlight. It thrives in the light intensity found under leaf canopies of taller plants.
Temperature: This species prefers warm temperatures, with a range between 18-27°C. It cannot tolerate extreme temperatures or frost.
Soil: Nervilia purpurata grows best in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil should be moist but not waterlogged, as the plant is susceptible to rotting if the soil is constantly waterlogged. A pH range of slightly acidic to neutral (5.5-7) is ideal for this species.
Water: Adequate watering is crucial for Nervilia purpurata, especially during the growing season. The plant requires consistent moisture, but overwatering should be avoided, as it leads to root rot. Reduce watering after the growing season, as the plant goes dormant.
Fertilizer: This species benefits from regular fertilization during its growing season. Fertilizers with equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium are ideal. It is essential to follow dosage instructions to avoid damage to the plant.
Air Humidity: Nervilia purpurata requires a high level of humidity to thrive. High levels of humidity can be achieved by placing a humidifier near the plant or misting the leaves with water regularly.
Propagation: Nervilia purpurata can be propagated through seeds or rhizome division. Seeds should be sown during the growing season, and rhizomes should be carefully divided during the dormant season.
Pests and Diseases: This species is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be affected by fungal infections if the soil is too wet. Regular inspection of the plant can help prevent pest and disease infestations.
Cultivation Methods
When cultivating Nervilia purpurata, it is best to replicate its natural habitat. The plant is commonly found in shaded woodland areas with well-draining soil. Therefore, it is best to plant it in a mixture of peat and sphagnum moss to provide the necessary drainage and moisture retention. It is also recommended to use a pot with proper drainage holes to ensure that excess water drains out efficiently. Nervilia purpurata prefers to be planted in partial to full shade, making it an ideal indoor plant, or you can grow it in a greenhouse setting.
Watering Needs
It is crucial to water Nervilia purpurata properly, as overwatering can lead to root rot, causing the plant's death. The soil should be kept consistently moist but not waterlogged. When watering, ensure that all parts of the soil are adequately saturated, including the bottom of the pot. It is recommended to use rainwater or distilled water to avoid chlorine and mineral build-up in the soil. During the plant's dormant period, reduce watering frequency to avoid water-logging that leads to root rot.
Fertilization
Nervilia purpurata does not require frequent fertilization, and over-fertilizing can harm the plant. During the growing season, fertilize once monthly using a balanced fertilizer with an NPK ratio of 20-20-20 or 10-10-10. However, it is prudent to use a diluted concentration to avoid damaging the plant. Avoid fertilizing during the dormant period as the plant does not require nutrients to grow at this time.
Pruning
Pruning Nervilia purpurata is unnecessary as the plant is relatively small and maintains a compact size. However, if the plant produces yellow or withered leaves, it is advisable to cut them off with sterile equipment. Yellow leaves may indicate an overwatering issue, and removing them helps avoid further root rot issues. Also, trimming back dead flower spikes encourages more blooms from the plant.
Propagation of Nervilia purpurata
Nervilia purpurata can be propagated through two methods: seed propagation and propagation through division.
Seed propagation
Seeds of Nervilia purpurata are extremely small and require specific conditions to germinate successfully. The seeds need to be sown immediately after harvesting, and they should not be allowed to dry out. A mixture of peat and sand is an ideal medium for germination. The seeds need to be sown thinly on the surface of the medium and lightly covered with a layer of fine sand. The container needs to be kept moist and at a temperature of around 25°C. Germination can take between 2 and 4 weeks, and once the seedlings have emerged, they need to be kept in a humid environment. The seedlings can be transplanted into individual pots once they have developed a few leaves.
Propagation through division
Propagation through division is the easiest and most common method of propagating Nervilia purpurata. The plants can be lifted from the ground during their dormant period and carefully divided into smaller clumps. Each clump should have at least 2-3 bulbs and some roots. The bulbs should be planted in a pot or container filled with a well-draining potting mix. The container needs to be kept in a cool, shaded area and the soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged. Once new shoots have emerged, the plants can be gradually exposed to more light and eventually planted in their permanent position.
Disease Management
Nervilia purpurata is generally susceptible to various fungal and bacterial diseases that can affect its leaves, stems, roots, and even its flowers. To manage these diseases, it’s essential to prevent the occurrence of the diseases by following cultural practices that promote good plant health. Some common diseases that may affect Nervilia purpurata include:
Leaf Spot
Leaf spot is a common fungal disease that is characterized by the appearance of brown or black spots on the leaves. To manage this disease, it is advisable to remove the affected leaves and destroy them to prevent further spreading. Additionally, avoid overhead watering and ensure proper plant spacing to promote air circulation among the leaves.
Root Rot
Root rot is caused by various fungal pathogens that thrive in poorly drained soils. Proper watering is crucial to avoid waterlogging which can lead to root rot. Additionally, ensure that the plant is grown in well-draining soil. In case of an infection, one can treat root rot by improving drainage, avoiding overwatering, and using a fungicide.
Pest Management
Several pests may attack Nervilia purpurata, leading to reduced plant growth and yield loss. Here are a few common pests of Nervilia purpurata and their management strategies:
Spider Mites
Spider mites are tiny pests that attack the leaves of Nervilia purpurata, causing the leaves to turn yellow and look sickly. To manage them, one can use horticultural oils, insecticidal soap, or neem oil. Additionally, one can remove the infested leaves and dispose of them properly.
Mealybugs
Mealybugs are common pests of Nervilia purpurata that feed on the plant sap, leaving the plant weak and stunted. To manage them, one can use neem oil, insecticidal soap, or alcohol wipes. Additionally, make sure to keep the plants dry and avoid over-fertilizing, which may attract the pests.
Slugs and Snails
Slugs and snails are pests that feed on the leaves of Nervilia purpurata, leaving holes that can affect the plant’s growth. One can manage them by removing any hiding spots near the plant, manually picking them off, or using a slug and snail bait.
