Overview:
Satyrium neglectum Schltr. subsp. woodii (Schltr.) A.V.Hall is a species of orchid native to South Africa. It is primarily found in the Cape Province, growing in damp areas such as marshes and riverbanks.
Common Names:
The common name for Satyrium neglectum Schltr. subsp. woodii is Wood's Satyrium Orchid, named after the botanist John Medley Wood who collected the type specimen in 1908.
Appearance:
The Wood's Satyrium Orchid has a tall stem, reaching up to 60cm, and produces 1 to 6 flowers that range in color from pinkish-purple to deep purple. The lip, which is the lower petal of the flower, is trilobed and fringed. The plant's leaves are narrow and lance-shaped, growing up to 15cm long.
Uses:
Like most orchids, Satyrium neglectum Schltr. subsp. woodii is primarily cultivated for ornamental purposes, as its striking flowers make it a popular addition to gardens and floral arrangements. In traditional medicine, the plant's root is sometimes used to treat coughs and respiratory ailments.
Light Requirements
Satyrium neglectum Schltr. subsp. woodii typically grows in shady conditions and is therefore adapted to lower light levels. In its natural habitat, it is found growing under trees or in shady forest environments. It can tolerate some direct sunlight but does best in filtered or dappled light.
Temperature Requirements
This plant prefers cooler temperatures, and therefore grows best in a temperate climate. It can tolerate some fluctuations in temperature, but does not do well in extreme heat. Satyrium neglectum Schltr. subsp. woodii typically grows in areas with an average temperature of 10-25°C (50-77°F).
Soil Requirements
Satyrium neglectum Schltr. subsp. woodii grows best in well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate slightly acidic to neutral soils and does not do well in soils that are heavily compacted or prone to waterlogging. It is often found growing in woodland areas where leaf litter and other organic matter has accumulated over time.
Cultivation methods
Satyrium neglectum Schltr. subsp. woodii (Schltr.) A.V.Hall is an epiphytic orchid that grows naturally in South Africa. To cultivate this plant, you need to provide a growing environment that is similar to its natural habitat. The plant requires a well-draining growing medium composed of bark, sphagnum moss, and perlite. You can grow this orchid in a pot using this mix or mount it on a piece of wood or bark. If you mount the plant, ensure that the roots come into contact with the moist substrate.
Watering needs
The Satyrium neglectum Schltr. subsp. woodii (Schltr.) A.V.Hall orchid requires moderate watering. Water the plant when the potting mix or the substrate begins to dry out. Water the plant thoroughly and allow the water to drain away completely. Do not let the plant sit in standing water as this can cause root rot.
Fertilization
Fertilize the Satyrium neglectum Schltr. subsp. woodii (Schltr.) A.V.Hall orchid during the growing season from spring to fall. Use a balanced orchid fertilizer, diluted to half strength, and apply it once a month. Apply the fertilizer when you water the plant to avoid fertilizer burn. Do not fertilize the plant during the winter season.
Pruning
Pruning the Satyrium neglectum Schltr. subsp. woodii (Schltr.) A.V.Hall orchid involves removing spent flowers, yellowing leaves, and any dead or diseased parts of the plant. Use sterile pruning shears to prevent fungal or bacterial infections. Prune the plant after it has finished flowering or during the dormant season. Do not prune the plant during its active growing season as this can damage the new growth.
Propagation of Satyrium neglectum Schltr. subsp. woodii (Schltr.) A.V.Hall
Propagation of Satyrium neglectum Schltr. subsp. woodii (Schltr.) A.V.Hall can be done through several methods, such as seed propagation, division, tissue culture, and root cuttings.
Seed Propagation
The easiest method of propagating Satyrium neglectum Schltr. subsp. woodii (Schltr.) A.V.Hall is seed propagation. Collect mature, dry capsules from the parent plant and sow them in a well-drained, moist soil mixture. Keep the soil mixture moist and place it in a bright, warm location.
Division
Another method of propagating Satyrium neglectum Schltr. subsp. woodii (Schltr.) A.V.Hall is division. Carefully extract the plant from the soil, removing any excess soil from the roots. Gently divide the plant into smaller sections, ensuring that each section has a healthy root system. Repot each section into a new container, using a well-draining soil mixture.
Tissue Culture
Tissue culture is a method of propagating Satyrium neglectum Schltr. subsp. woodii (Schltr.) A.V.Hall where plant tissue is grown in a laboratory setting. This method is useful for producing clones of desirable plants that may not reproduce true to type from seed. Tissue culture requires specialized equipment and expertise, so it is not a method that can be easily done at home.
Root Cuttings
Root cuttings are another propagation method for Satyrium neglectum Schltr. subsp. woodii (Schltr.) A.V.Hall. Dig up the parent plant and remove a section of its root system. Cut the root into smaller sections, ensuring each section has a bud. Plant the sections in a well-draining soil mixture and keep them moist. With time, they will grow into new plants.
Disease and Pest Management for Satyrium neglectum Schltr. subsp. woodii (Schltr.) A.V.Hall
Satyrium neglectum Schltr. subsp. woodii (Schltr.) A.V.Hall is a terrestrial orchid that is susceptible to several diseases and pest attacks. It is essential to manage these to maintain the plant's health and ensure its optimal growth. Below are some of the common diseases and pests that might affect Satyrium neglectum Schltr. subsp. woodii (Schltr.) A.V.Hall and suggestions for their management:
Diseases
Phytophthora spp. - Phytophthora is a fungal disease that can cause root rot and wilting. Infected plants show symptoms like yellowing leaves, stunted growth, and eventual death. The fungus thrives in poorly drained soils. To manage the disease, isolate infected plants and avoid planting new ones in the same soil. Ensure the soil is well-drained and avoid overwatering.
Mycosphaerella Leaf Spot - Mycosphaerella Leaf Spot is caused by a fungus that can affect the plant leaves. The disease appears as small brown spots on the leaves, which enlarge and merge to form patches. It can cause defoliation, affecting the plant's overall health. To manage the disease, remove and destroy infected leaves and avoid overhead watering. Ensure the plant has good air circulation to prevent fungal growth.
Pests
Spider Mites - Spider mites are small arachnids that can cause yellowing and stippling of plant leaves. They thrive in hot and dry conditions. To manage the pests, maintain good plant hygiene by removing plant debris regularly, avoid overcrowding, and use insecticidal soap to control their population.
Slugs and Snails - Slugs and Snails feed on plant leaves, leaving irregular symptoms on the foliage. They favor damp conditions and can thrive in greenhouses. To manage the pests, avoid watering in the evening to reduce moisture and use traps or slug pellets to control their population.
Regular monitoring of Satyrium neglectum Schltr. subsp. woodii (Schltr.) A.V.Hall can help detect and prevent pest and disease attacks. Proper plant hygiene, good cultural practices, and using pesticides as a last resort can help manage the pests and diseases effectively.
