Overview
Ornithoglossum parviflorum B.Nord. var. namaquense B.Nord. is a species of perennial herbaceous plant that belongs to the family Orchidaceae.
Origin
This plant is native to southern Africa, specifically in the Namib and Richtersveld regions. It can be found in areas with gravelly soil and in rocky crevices.
Common Names
Ornithoglossum parviflorum B.Nord. var. namaquense B.Nord. is commonly known as Namaqua bird's-tongue or dwarf-flower bird's-tongue.
Appearance
The plant has fleshy leaves that grow in a rosette. The leaves are dark green and have parallel veins. The plant produces a spike-like inflorescence that bears several small, greenish-yellow flowers with a brownish-red lip. The flowers have a pleasant scent and bloom in late winter to early spring.
Uses
The Namaqua people, who inhabit the plant's natural range, use the fleshy roots of the plant for medicinal purposes. The roots are also used in traditional rituals. Ornithoglossum parviflorum B.Nord. var. namaquense B.Nord. is also grown as an ornamental plant in gardens and greenhouses.
Light Requirements:
The Ornithoglossum parviflorum B.Nord. var. namaquense B.Nord. requires full sun to partial shade. Therefore, it can be grown in areas with direct sunlight and also in locations that receive partial shade. It is important to note that too much shade can negatively impact flower production and growth.
Temperature Requirements:
The plant thrives in a warm climate with temperatures ranging between 68°F to 86°F (20°C to 30°C). However, during the winter season, temperatures should not fall below 50°F (10°C) as this may cause the plant to go dormant.
Soil Requirements:
The Ornithoglossum parviflorum B.Nord. var. namaquense B.Nord. thrives in well-draining sandy soils. It is also tolerant of soils with low nutrient content. The pH level of the soil should be neutral to slightly acidic at around 6.0. It is essential to avoid waterlogging the soil.
Cultivation Methods
Ornithoglossum parviflorum B.Nord. var. namaquense B.Nord. is a cormous perennial plant that requires well-draining soil. As such, it is essential to plant it in a pot or a garden bed with a mix of porous soil. Ensure the planting depth of the corm is around 5-10 cm below the surface. The plant thrives in a bright area, but direct sunlight should be avoided in hot months. It is best grown in warm temperatures with a range of 20-28°C.
Watering Needs
To maintain healthy growth, avoid over-watering the plant. Recommended watering practice involves moistening the soil several times a week and ensuring it does not dry out entirely. Depending on the humidity in the area, the Ornithoglossum parviflorum B.Nord. var. namaquense B.Nord. might require more or less water to prevent the roots from rotting or drying out.
Fertilization
The plant needs regular fertilization to maintain healthy growth. Apply a balanced fertilizer to the soil once every three weeks during the growing season. In the dormant period, do not fertilize to help the plant conserve its energy during the resting period.
Pruning
Trimming the leaves of Ornithoglossum parviflorum B.Nord. var. namaquense B.Nord. is not necessary unless fouled by parts that are already damaged due to disease or pests. If there are dead stems or leaves, it is safe to remove the affected area without inducing harm to the plant. Pruning the dead areas from the plant aids in maintaining the plant's aesthetic and overall health.
Propagation of Ornithoglossum parviflorum B.Nord. var. namaquense B.Nord.
The Ornithoglossum parviflorum B.Nord. var. namaquense B.Nord. plant can be propagated through both seeds and offsets.
Propagation through Seeds:
The seeds of Ornithoglossum parviflorum B.Nord. var. namaquense B.Nord. should be sown immediately after harvesting. The seeds are small and should be sown in a well-draining soil mix. The depth of sowing should be approximately twice the size of the seed. The pots should be kept in a warm and sunny place. The emergence of seedlings may take a few weeks to several months. Once the seedlings are established, they should be watered regularly. They should be transplanted to a well-draining potting mix as soon as the plants are large enough to handle.
Propagation through Offsets:
The Ornithoglossum parviflorum B.Nord. var. namaquense B.Nord. plant produces small offsets. The offsets can be removed and planted individually in a well-draining soil mix. The pots should be kept in a warm and sunny place. The offsets will root and start to produce new growth within a few weeks. Once the new growth is established, the plants should be watered regularly. They should be transplanted to a well-draining potting mix as soon as the plants are large enough to handle.
Disease Management
Ornithoglossum parviflorum B.Nord. var. namaquense B.Nord. is relatively disease-resistant but can still be affected by some fungal and bacterial diseases. Here are some common diseases and ways to manage them:
Fungal Diseases
Gray Mold (Botrytis cinerea): This fungal disease can cause brown or black spots on leaves and flowers, and can eventually lead to plant death. To manage it, prune and remove infected plant parts, increase air circulation around plants, and avoid overhead watering.
Leaf Spot (Alternaria spp.): This fungal disease causes purplish-black spots on leaves. To manage it, prune and remove infected plant parts, avoid overhead watering, and ensure good air circulation around plants.
Bacterial Diseases
Bacterial Soft Rot (Erwinia spp.): This bacterial disease can cause the collapse and rotting of plant tissues. To manage it, prune and remove infected plant parts, avoid overwatering, and ensure good air circulation around plants.
Pest Management
Ornithoglossum parviflorum B.Nord. var. namaquense B.Nord. is generally pest-resistant, but it can still be affected by some pests. Here are some common pests and ways to manage them:
Insects
Thrips: These tiny insects can be found on the undersides of leaves and can cause silvery streaks on leaves. To manage them, rinse plants with a strong stream of water and introduce predatory insects such as lacewings.
Spider Mites: These tiny pests can cause yellowing of leaves and webbing on plant parts. To manage them, rinse plants with a strong stream of water, introduce predatory insects such as ladybugs, and increase humidity around plants.
Mammals
Deer: Deer can cause damage to plant parts by grazing on them. To manage them, use repellents or physical barriers such as fencing or netting.
