Origin
Pterygodium cleistogamum is a terrestrial orchid species native to South Africa where it grows in rocky grasslands, fynbos, and renosterveld biome. It belongs to the genus Pterygodium, a group of around 45 species mainly found in southern and tropical Africa.
Common Names
Common names for Pterygodium cleistogamum include the Hidden Tongue Orchid, Torch Orchid, and Vleitulp.
Uses
Pterygodium cleistogamum has no specific recorded uses, but as with many orchids, it has horticultural value as a collector's item or ornamental plant in gardens. The plant is generally not commercially cultivated, and the collection of wild orchids is illegal under South African law.
General Appearance
Pterygodium cleistogamum is a small, tuberous, and erect orchid that can grow up to 45cm tall. Its flowers are bright orange-red or yellow with a spur of around 12mm long. The flowers are arranged in a dense spike cluster with each flower subtended by a green bract. The plant usually flowers between late October and December and produces fruit around January. The leaves are basal, erect, and linear with a length of between 8–18cm and a maximum width of 3mm.
Light Requirements
Pterygodium cleistogamum prefers moderate to bright indirect sunlight. It can tolerate some direct sunlight in the morning and late afternoon, but it should avoid exposure to intense midday sun. When planting indoors, make sure to place it near a window with bright but filtered light.
Temperature Requirements
The ideal temperature range for Pterygodium cleistogamum is between 60-75°F (15-24°C) during the day and 50-65°F (10-18°C) at night. It can tolerate temperatures as low as 40°F (4°C) but should be protected from frost. During the winter, it is best to keep the plant in a cool location to promote dormant periods.
Soil Requirements
Pterygodium cleistogamum requires well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A good soil mix should consist of peat moss, perlite, and sand. It prefers slightly acidic to neutral soils with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.0. The plant should be watered regularly but make sure that the soil always dries out between each watering.
Cultivation Methods
Pterygodium cleistogamum is a terrestrial orchid that grows in well-draining soil. It is native to South Africa and prefers to grow in areas with cool temperatures. To cultivate Pterygodium cleistogamum, you can plant the orchid in a pot with well-draining soil and provide it with a humid environment. This plant can also be grown outdoors, provided there is enough shade to protect the plant from direct sunlight.
Watering Needs
Pterygodium cleistogamum requires regular watering during the growing season, which starts in the spring and continues through the fall. This orchid needs to be kept moist but not waterlogged. It is important to provide this plant with frequent watering since it does not tolerate drought.
Fertilization
Pterygodium cleistogamum requires regular fertilization during the growing season. A balanced fertilizer is recommended, and it should be applied every other week. During the dormant season, fertilization can be reduced or stopped altogether.
Pruning
Pterygodium cleistogamum does not require much pruning. However, it is important to remove any dead or yellowing leaves as soon as possible to prevent the spread of diseases. If the plant becomes too large for its container, it can be divided and repotted in fresh soil.
Propagation of Pterygodium Cleistogamum (Bolus) Schltr.
Propagation of Pterygodium cleistogamum (Bolus) Schltr. can be done through various methods. One of the most common methods is through seed propagation. This orchid species produces a large number of small, fine seeds that can be sown in well-draining, aerated soil, such as a mixture of sand, peat moss, and perlite. The seeds can be sown in pots or seed trays and should be kept moist at all times.
Another effective propagation method for Pterygodium cleistogamum is through division. Established plants can be separated and replanted to create new colonies. This is typically done during the dormant period, which is usually during the winter months. The plant should be dug up or gently lifted from the soil and the root system should be carefully separated to avoid damaging the roots. Each division should have a healthy root system and a portion of the pseudobulbs.
In addition to seed propagation and division, Pterygodium cleistogamum can also be propagated through in vitro culture or tissue culture. This method involves taking a small piece of the plant, such as the tip of a stem, and culturing it in a sterile environment with a nutrient-rich medium. This process can be time-consuming and requires specialized equipment and skills.
Disease Management
Pterygodium cleistogamum (Bolus) Schltr. is generally a healthy plant but it can be susceptible to a few diseases. Some of the common diseases that affect this plant include:
Phytophthora root rot
This is a fungal disease that affects the roots of the plant, causing them to rot. It is more prevalent in waterlogged soils. To manage this disease, it is recommended to avoid overwatering of the plant and ensure good drainage. The use of fungicides can also help.
Botrytis blight
This is a fungal disease that affects leaves, flowers, and stems of the plant. It causes brown spots and decay on the affected parts. To control this disease, it is recommended to maintain good air circulation around the plant and avoid overhead watering. The use of fungicides can also help.
Pest Management
Pterygodium cleistogamum (Bolus) Schltr. is generally resistant to pests, but some of the pests that might affect it include:
Spider mites
These are tiny insects that suck sap from the leaves of the plant. They cause yellowing and wilting of the leaves. To manage these pests, it is recommended to spray the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Snails and slugs
These pests eat away at the leaves of the plant, leaving holes and causing damage. To manage these pests, it is recommended to handpick them or use slug and snail bait.
Regular monitoring of the plant can help prevent and manage the occurrence of diseases and pests. It is also recommended to maintain good plant hygiene by removing any fallen leaves or debris around the plant to prevent disease build-up.
