Origin
Oeceoclades mackenii (Rolfe ex Hemsl.) Garay & P.Taylor, also known as the Mackenzie's Oeceoclades, is a species of orchid native to Africa. It is found growing wild in the humid regions of tropical West and Central Africa.
Common Names
The plant is known by several common names, including Mackenzie's Oeceoclades, Green-flowered Oeceoclades and Hemslia mackenii.
Appearance
Oeceoclades mackenii is a small to medium-sized orchid, which can grow up to 40 cm tall. The plant has pseudobulbs which are cylindrical and grow up to 6 cm long. The leaves are oblong or elliptic-oblong, and can grow up to 20 cm long and 8 cm wide. The plant blooms in summer, with green to pale yellow flowers that grow on a short inflorescence.
Uses
The Mackenzie's Oeceoclades is not commonly used for medicinal purposes. However, some communities in Africa use the plant's tubers to treat various illnesses, including epilepsy, stomach-related issues, and snake bites. The plant is also popular with collectors and hobbyists due to its appealing appearance.
Light Requirements
Oeceoclades mackenii requires bright but filtered light. It thrives in areas with shade levels of 50-60% and can tolerate dappled sunshine. It is essential to keep the plant away from direct sunlight as it can have adverse effects such as sun damage and leaf scorching.
Temperature and Humidity Requirements
The optimal temperature range for Oeceoclades mackenii is between 18°C and 26°C. It is a tropical plant and requires warm and humid conditions to thrive. Low temperatures can affect the growth rate and cause the leaves to turn yellow. To increase humidity levels, a humidifier can be used, and the plant can be misted with water. Air conditioning should be avoided as it can reduce humidity levels.
Soil Requirements
Oeceoclades mackenii prefers a well-draining potting mix that retains moisture and has high water-holding capacity. A mixture of sphagnum moss, perlite, and orchid bark is an excellent option. The plant does not require frequent repotting and should be repotted only when necessary. During the growing season, the soil should be kept lightly moist, and fertilizer can be added twice a month.
Cultivation Methods
Oeceoclades mackenii is an orchid species that can be easily cultivated at home. It is best grown in a humid environment with partial shade. You can grow the plant in a potting mix made of sphagnum moss, coconut coir, and perlite. The plant can be propagated by dividing the rhizome.
Watering Needs
The watering needs of Oeceoclades mackenii are moderate. The plant should not be allowed to dry out completely. Watering should be done when the top layer of potting mix feels dry to the touch. Overwatering can cause root rot and lead to the death of the plant.
Fertilization
Oeceoclades mackenii requires regular fertilization to thrive. You can use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer, and apply it every two weeks during the growing season (spring and summer) and once a month during the dormant season (fall and winter). Avoid fertilizing the plant when the potting mix is dry.
Pruning
Pruning Oeceoclades mackenii is not necessary as the plant is known for its compact growth habit. However, if you see any yellow or brown leaves, you can prune them immediately. It is also advisable to remove any dead or decaying plant material from the potting mix to prevent diseases.
Propagating Oeceoclades mackenii
Oeceoclades mackenii, commonly known as the African Spotted Orchid, is a terrestrial orchid that is native to Eastern Africa. It is a popular plant for indoor gardening and is also grown in outdoor gardens in tropical and sub-tropical regions. Propagation of the Oeceoclades mackenii can be done through different methods, which are discussed below.
Division
Division is the most common method of propagating Oeceoclades mackenii. It involves dividing the plant into smaller sections, with each section having at least one pseudobulb and a few roots. Spring is the best time for dividing the plants, and it is advisable to wait until the plant has stopped flowering.
Using a sharp and sterilized knife, gently cut through the root system of the mother plant and make sure that each division has enough roots to support the new plant. After dividing, plant each section into a pot or other suitable container with a well-draining potting mix, and then water thoroughly. Place the new plants in a shaded area and maintain high humidity for the first few weeks until new growth appears.
Seed Propagation
Seed propagation is another method of propagating Oeceoclades mackenii but has a lower success rate compared to the division method. Obtaining seeds can be tricky since the plant rarely produces fruits in cultivation. When available, seeds should be sown in a well-draining potting mix supplemented with perlite to improve drainage. Sow the seeds thinly on top of the soil, and then cover them lightly with a small layer of the soil mix.
The container should then be covered with a clear plastic bag, creating a small humid environment. The bag should be removed once the seedlings emerge, and the container should be placed in a brightly lit area but still avoiding direct sunlight. Water the seedlings regularly and wait for them to mature and grow big enough for transplantation.
Disease and Pest Management for Oeceoclades mackenii (Rolfe ex Hemsl.) Garay & P.Taylor
As with any plant, it is important to properly manage diseases and pests to ensure the health and longevity of Oeceoclades mackenii. Here are some common issues that Oeceoclades mackenii may face and ways to manage them:
Diseases
Bacterial Soft Rot: Bacterial soft rot can quickly spread to your entire plant and is usually caused by excess moisture. To manage bacterial soft rot, it is important to remove any affected parts of the plant, adjust your watering schedule to avoid overwatering and allow the soil to dry out between watering, and apply a copper-based fungicide to the affected area.
Anthracnose: Anthracnose is a fungal disease that can cause yellowing and browning of leaves and stems. To manage anthracnose, remove any affected parts of the plant and ensure proper air circulation around the plant. Applying a copper-based fungicide can also help prevent the spread of anthracnose.
Root Rot: Overwatering and poor drainage can cause root rot in Oeceoclades mackenii. To manage root rot, reduce watering and allow the soil to dry out between watering. Adjusting the soil pH level can also help prevent root rot, as can applying fungicides or biological controls.
Pests
Spider Mites: Spider mites are tiny pests that can spin webs between the leaves of Oeceoclades mackenii and cause spotting and discoloration. To manage spider mites, it is important to regularly inspect your plant and wipe any webs or pests off the leaves with a damp cloth. You can also use insecticidal soap or neem oil to manage spider mites.
Mealybugs: Mealybugs are small white insects that can be found on the leaves and stems of Oeceoclades mackenii. To manage mealybugs, it is important to remove any affected parts of the plant and use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control the infestation.
Scale Insects: Scale insects look like small bumps on the leaves and stems of Oeceoclades mackenii. To manage scale insects, use a soft brush to remove them from the plant, or apply insecticidal soap or horticultural oil to the affected area. Improving air circulation and reducing excess moisture can also help prevent scale infestations.
