Overview of Pterygodium inversum
Pterygodium inversum (Thunb.) Sw. is a flowering plant that belongs to the Orchidaceae family. The plant is native to South Africa and is found in high altitude areas. It is also known by its common names, including Inverted Pterygodium, Upside-Down Orchid, and Rooipootjie.
Appearance of Pterygodium inversum
The Pterygodium inversum plant grows up to a height of about 40 centimeters and has a symmetrical appearance. The stems emerge from the ground and have two large leaves at the base. The leaves are elliptical and are up to 12 centimeters in length. The stem bears a single inflorescence that contains up to ten flowers. The flowers are greenish-yellow with reddish-brown markings and have a distinctive inverted appearance.
Uses of Pterygodium inversum
The Pterygodium inversum plant has been used by indigenous communities in South Africa for medicinal purposes. The plant is believed to have antibacterial properties and to be effective in treating skin conditions such as burns, rashes, and insect bites. The plant is also used in traditional ceremonies and is sometimes used as an ornamental plant in gardens.
Light Requirements
Pterygodium inversum thrives in bright, direct sunlight. It is an orchid species that requires a high light intensity to grow and produce flowers. In its natural habitat, this plant is often found at high elevations and exposed locations where it is constantly receiving sunlight. Therefore, it is essential to provide it with bright light conditions to ensure healthy growth.
Temperature Requirements
The ideal temperature range for Pterygodium inversum growth is between 50°F to 85°F (10°C to 30°C). This plant can tolerate a wide range of temperatures. However, it needs to be kept away from extreme temperatures that can affect its growth. During the winter season, it can withstand temperatures as low as 45°F (7°C).
Soil Requirements
Pterygodium inversum prefers well-draining, loose, and sandy soil. It thrives in a nutrient-rich environment with a slightly acidic to neutral pH of 6.0 to 7.5. The ideal potting mix should contain components such as sphagnum moss, perlite, coconut coir, or bark chips. It is essential to ensure that the soil is periodically aerated to avoid soil compaction, which can lead to waterlogging and root rot.
Cultivation methods
Pterygodium inversum (Thunb.) Sw. is a terrestrial orchid that thrives in well-draining soil and ample sunlight. When planting this species, it's essential to choose a location that gets full morning sun and partial afternoon shade, so they can soak up enough sunlight to bloom. It is crucial to plant the bulbs deep enough, so the top is level with the soil's surface, and make sure it’s exposed to light. You can also grow it in a container with sphagnum moss, bark or loam.
Watering needs
Watering should be done sparingly once a week, so you do not over-water the orchid bulbs to avoid rotting. Allow the soil to dry between watering intervals both in the garden and container. The plant prefers a cool and moist environment, so misting the foliage when the weather heats up will provide the required ambient humidity.
Fertilization
Pterygodium inversum (Thunb.) Sw. requires feeding from spring until autumn with a balanced liquid fertilizer. Use teasing spoon amounts per gallon of water and water the orchid bulbs just once a month. Ensure the balance of nutrients is suited to your species by checking on the packaging of the fertilizer. Avoid overfeeding to prevent burning of the roots and only fertilize the plant when it's producing new growth and blooming.
Pruning
During the winter months, the foliage of Pterygodium inversum (Thunb.) Sw. will yellow and die back. Cut back the yellowed foliage leaving only 1 – 2 inches above the soil surface. By doing this, it will help the plant concentrate on regenerating itself, ready for the next season's growth. Also, remove any diseased or damaged foliage as you notice it through the growing season to reduce insect and disease problems.
Propagation of Pterygodium inversum (Thunb.) Sw.
Pterygodium inversum (Thunb.) Sw. can be propagated through two main methods: division of tubers and seed propagation.
Propagation through Division of Tubers
The most common method of propagating Pterygodium inversum (Thunb.) Sw. is through division of tubers. This method involves separating the parent plant's tubers into smaller pieces, each with a section of stem and a portion of the root system. The ideal time for division is during the dormant period in late autumn or early winter.
Using a sterilized knife, divide the tubers carefully, ensuring that each section has a portion of stem with one or two growth buds and some roots. Plant each section into a well-draining growing medium and place it in a brightly lit area with plenty of indirect sunlight. Keep the soil moist, but avoid overwatering, which can lead to rot.
Propagation through Seed Propagation
Seed propagation can be a more time-consuming and challenging method than division of tubers. However, it can also produce new plants that are genetically distinct from the parent plant and may exhibit unique traits. Collect seeds from ripe seedpods that have turned brown and have started to split. Sow the seeds in a well-draining mix of sand and peat in a container and place it in a warm, brightly lit location.
Keep the soil moist and monitor the container for signs of growth. Once seedlings have emerged and are large enough to be handled, transplant them into individual pots with a well-draining growing medium. Gradually acclimate the young plants to direct sunlight and keep the soil moist. Pterygodium inversum (Thunb.) Sw. can take several years to mature and produce flowers when propagated from seed.
Disease and Pest Management for Pterygodium inversum (Thunb.) Sw.
Pterygodium inversum (Thunb.) Sw. is a terrestrial orchid that typically grows in a symbiotic relationship with fungi that provide nutrients to the plant. Despite its hardiness, this plant species is still prone to diseases and pests that can cause damage to the plant and reduce its growth and yield. It is important for growers to be aware of the common diseases and pests that affect the Pterygodium inversum (Thunb.) Sw. plant and how to manage them.
Common Diseases and Pests
The following are the most common diseases and pests that affect the Pterygodium inversum (Thunb.) Sw. plant:
- Mites: Spider mites are a common pest that can cause severe damage to the plant. They feed on the sap of the plant, causing discoloration, stunted growth, and loss of leaves. To manage spider mites, growers should use insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Slugs and snails: These pests can completely defoliate young plants. To manage slugs and snails, growers should use slug baits or copper tape around the base of the plant.
- Fungal infections: Pterygodium inversum (Thunb.) Sw. is susceptible to several types of fungal infections, including rust and botrytis. Rust appears as small yellow or red spots on the leaves while botrytis is characterized by gray mold growth. To manage fungal infections, growers should ensure good air circulation around the plant and remove infected leaves. Fungicides may also be used.
Pest and Disease Management
The following are some effective ways to manage diseases and pests that commonly affect the Pterygodium inversum (Thunb.) Sw. plant:
- Growers should always use disease-free pots and soil to prevent the spread of diseases.
- The plant should be grown in well-drained soil with a pH of 5.5 to 6.0.
- To avoid overwatering, the plant should be watered only when the soil is dry. Water should be applied to the base of the plant to avoid foliage getting wet.
- The plant should receive adequate sunlight of about 6 hours per day but should not be exposed to direct sunlight.
- To prevent pest infestation, the plant should be inspected regularly and any pests noticed should be isolated and controlled.
- The plant should be protected from extreme temperatures and strong winds, which can cause damage to the foliage and flowers.
Adopting these measures can help growers manage diseases and pests that commonly affect the Pterygodium inversum (Thunb.) Sw. plant, which will ensure its healthy growth, yield, and longevity.
