Origin
Otiophora calycophylla is an endemic plant species found in South Africa, specifically in the Western Cape and Eastern Cape provinces.
Common Names
This plant is commonly known as the "Lizard Plant" or "Mohawk Plant" due to its unique appearance.
Appearance
Otiophora calycophylla is a small succulent plant that grows up to 10 cm tall. It has fleshy, green leaves that are triangular in shape and covered in fine white hairs. The plant's stems are thin and flexible, with small pink or purple flowers appearing during the summer months.
Uses
Traditionally, Otiophora calycophylla was used by the Khoisan people for medicinal purposes, specifically to treat stomach ailments and wounds. It is also commonly used as an ornamental plant due to its unique appearance.
Growth Conditions of Otiophora calycophylla (Sond.) Schltr. & K.Schum. subsp. calycophylla
Otiophora calycophylla (Sond.) Schltr. & K.Schum. subsp. calycophylla is a perennial plant, commonly known as the Spotted Fairy Orchid. The plant is native to Southern Africa and can be found growing in various habitats such as open grasslands and forest margins. The species require specific growth conditions to thrive effectively.
Light Requirements
The Spotted Fairy Orchid requires direct sunlight to grow properly. The species thrives well in areas with high light intensity, and partial sun exposure. The light intensity is crucial for the plant's survival, and inadequate light can cause the plant to wither and die.
Soil Requirements
The plant thrives in well-draining soils with excellent soil aeration. The soil should have a sandy loam texture with a pH range of 6.0-7.5. The species can tolerate low fertility soil, but it is advisable to apply a slow-release fertilizer to improve growth and flowering.
Temperature Requirements
The Spotted Fairy Orchid is sensitive to temperature changes and requires moderate temperatures. The plant prefers temperatures ranging from 20°C-25°C. High-temperature levels can cause the plant to wilt, while low temperatures can hinder plant growth and flowering. Protecting the plant from extreme cold or heat is crucial for the plant's survival.
Cultivation Methods
Otiophora calycophylla subsp. calycophylla is an epiphytic orchid that grows best in a humid and warm environment. It is commonly found growing on trees, preferring to attach itself to rough bark.
For cultivation, it is recommended to grow O. calycophylla subsp. calycophylla in a well-draining potting mix specifically designed for epiphytic orchids. You can also mount the plant on a piece of bark or a wooden board.
When potting or mounting the plant, avoid covering the roots completely. Instead, position them in the pot or on the bark, ensuring that they are in contact with the growing medium or substrate.
Watering Needs
Otiophora calycophylla subsp. calycophylla requires consistent watering throughout the growing season, which typically extends from spring to fall. You can maintain hydration by using a high-quality orchid fertilizer every other week.
It is important to avoid overwatering or allowing the roots to sit in standing water, as this can cause root rot.
During the winter months, the plant enters a dormant phase. During this time, it is recommended to reduce watering and let the growing medium dry out slightly between watering sessions.
Fertilization
Like most orchids, Otiophora calycophylla subsp. calycophylla requires regular fertilization to thrive. A high-quality orchid fertilizer can be used biweekly during the growing season. Dilute the fertilizer to half the recommended strength to avoid over-fertilization.
While fertilizing, be sure to avoid getting any of the solution on the leaves or flowers, as this can cause damage.
Pruning
Pruning is not generally required for Otiophora calycophylla subsp. calycophylla. However, removing spent flowers can help promote the production of new blooms.
If you notice any dead, yellowing, or decaying leaves, it is advisable to remove these immediately. This helps to prevent the spread of diseases and pests and encourages new growth.
Propagation of Otiophora calycophylla (Sond.) Schltr. & K.Schum. subsp. calycophylla
Otiophora calycophylla (Sond.) Schltr. & K.Schum. subsp. calycophylla can be propagated through various methods. Some of them are:
Vegetative Propagation
Vegetative propagation is the most common method for the propagation of Otiophora calycophylla (Sond.) Schltr. & K.Schum. subsp. calycophylla. This can be achieved through stem cuttings, layering or division.
- Stem cuttings: Take 10-15 cm long stem cuttings from the healthy parent plant during the growing season (spring or summer). Remove the lower leaves and plant the cutting in a well-draining potting mix. Maintain a humid environment and provide bright but indirect light. Roots will form in 2-3 weeks and then can be transplanted to the desired location.
- Layering: This method involves the bending and burying of a low-hanging stem from the parent plant. Secure the stem in place with a stake or rock and cover it with soil. The stem should be buried about halfway or two-thirds deep. Roots will form at the buried portion of the stem, which can be severed from the parent plant and transplanted to another location.
- Division: Mature plants can be divided during the dormant season (fall or winter). Dig up the entire plant and gently separate the root system into smaller sections, ensuring each section has enough roots and stems to survive. Replant each section in a well-draining soil mix and provide adequate water and light until new growth is established.
Seed Propagation
Otiophora calycophylla (Sond.) Schltr. & K.Schum. subsp. calycophylla can also be propagated through seeds. The seeds need to be sown immediately after they are collected, as they have limited viability.
- Seed collection: Collect the mature capsules from the parent plant when they are dry and brown. The capsules split open to release the seeds, which can be collected and stored in a dry place.
- Sowing: Sow the seeds in a well-draining soil mix and cover them lightly with soil. Moisten the soil and cover the pot with plastic wrap to maintain humidity. Place the pot in a warm location that receives bright but indirect light. The seeds will germinate in 2-4 weeks.
- Transplanting: Once the seedlings have developed several sets of leaves, they can be transplanted to individual pots or directly to the garden. Provide adequate water and light to promote growth and survival.
Propagation of Otiophora calycophylla (Sond.) Schltr. & K.Schum. subsp. calycophylla through vegetative or seed propagation can be rewarding and relatively easy. However, it is essential to maintain ideal environmental conditions and ensure the use of healthy parent plants and high-quality propagation materials.
Disease Management
Being a relatively new species, Otiophora calycophylla (Sond.) Schltr. & K.Schum. subsp. calycophylla does not have a well-established list of diseases that can affect it. However, as with any plant species, the occurrence of fungal and bacterial infections cannot be entirely ruled out. Therefore, it is crucial to maintain proper hygiene and care to prevent the onset and spread of diseases. The following are a few disease management practices that can be adopted:
- Disinfecting pruning tools before use to prevent the spread of disease.
- Removing and destroying any infected or dead plant parts to prevent the spread of disease.
- Providing adequate ventilation to prevent the accumulation of moisture, which can contribute to the onset of fungal diseases.
- Avoiding overwatering or irrigating during the evening to prevent the onset of foliar fungal diseases.
- Applying suitable fungicides in case of severe fungal infection.
Pest Management
Otiophora calycophylla (Sond.) Schltr. & K.Schum. subsp. calycophylla is generally considered a hardy plant and is not known to attract many pests. However, some pests may still cause damage to the plant. The following are a few pest management practices that can be adopted:
- Monitoring the plant regularly for the presence of any pests.
- Removing any visible pests manually.
- Applying suitable insecticides in case of severe infestation.
- Using physical barriers such as nets or mesh to prevent pests from accessing the plant.
