Origin
Satyrium welwitschii Rchb.f., also known as Welwitsch’s Satyrium is a terrestrial orchid that is native to Africa, particularly Angola, Cameroon, Congo, Gabon, Ghana, Nigeria, and Uganda.
Common Names
The plant is commonly referred to as Welwitsch’s Satyrium or just Satyrium. Other local names include E, Okuko in Nigeria, and Ombojo in Gabon.
Uses
Satyrium welwitschii Rchb.f. is used locally for medicinal purposes. The plant is believed to have antibacterial and antifungal properties. Its tubers are used for treating respiratory problems, diarrhea, and skin infections. However, excessive use could cause vomiting and stomach pains.
It is also used in some parts of Africa as an ornamental plant due to its stunning flowers that bloom in pairs and are white to pinkish in color. The plant’s tubers, which are long and slender, are also used to make a nutritious porridge by some African communities.
General Appearance
Satyrium welwitschii Rchb.f. is a small to medium-sized plant that grows up to 40cm in height. It has a tubular stem that is covered with several stem leaves. Its flowers bloom in pairs on a separate stem and are white, pinkish with fine red veins. The flowers are small, about 0.5cm in diameter. Satyrium welwitschii Rchb.f. has tuberous roots that are long and slender, often up to 10cm long. Its leaves are ovate-lanceolate in shape and are a deep green color, about 10cm long and 3cm wide.
Light Requirements
The Satyrium welwitschii Rchb.f. plant requires bright and indirect light for optimal growth. To achieve this, place the plant in a location where it can receive filtered sunlight or partial shade. Direct sunlight can lead to leaf scorching and damage to the plant.
Temperature Requirements
The Satyrium welwitschii Rchb.f. plant thrives in warm temperatures between 60°F and 80°F. In areas with lower temperatures, it is crucial to provide artificial heat sources such as space heaters or heat lamps. However, it is important to ensure that the plant does not experience temperature fluctuations or sudden drops, as this can cause damage or death.
Soil Requirements
The Satyrium welwitschii Rchb.f. plant does well in well-draining soil with rich organic matter. It can also grow in soil with a higher sand content and in rocky terrains. Soil pH should be between 5 and 7.5, indicating slightly acidic to neutral conditions. The plant does not do well in waterlogged soils, which can cause root rot and fungal diseases.
Cultivation of Satyrium welwitschii Rchb.f.
Satyrium welwitschii Rchb.f. is a terrestrial orchid that requires well-draining soil and partial shade. It is best suited for cultivation in tropics and subtropics, but it can also grow in a greenhouse or indoors.
When planting Satyrium welwitschii Rchb.f., it is important to choose a spot with good air circulation. This will prevent moisture build-up, which can lead to fungal and bacterial diseases. The plant can be propagated by dividing its rhizomes or from seed, but division is the most common method.
Watering Needs
Satyrium welwitschii Rchb.f. requires regular watering, but overwatering should be avoided. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged. Watering should be reduced in cooler months or during dormancy.
If grown indoors or in a greenhouse, misting can be done to increase humidity levels. However, care should be taken not to mist the flowers directly as it can cause damage.
Fertilization
While Satyrium welwitschii Rchb.f. does not require frequent fertilization, it can benefit from occasional feeding during the growing season. A balanced fertilizer with equal parts nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium can be applied once every four weeks.
The use of organic fertilizers such as compost tea or fish emulsion is also suitable for the plant. However, it is essential to follow the manufacturer's instructions for best results.
Pruning
Pruning Satyrium welwitschii Rchb.f. is not necessary unless the leaves and older stems turn yellow and begin to wither. In this case, the affected parts can be trimmed off to prevent the spread of disease.
It is important to sterilize the pruning tool with rubbing alcohol or a bleach solution before and after pruning to avoid infecting the plant.
Propagation of Satyrium welwitschii Rchb.f.
Satyrium welwitschii Rchb.f. is an African orchid species that can be propagated by various methods:
Division of pseudobulbs
The plant produces pseudobulbs, which can be separated from the parent plant and planted in a new pot with fresh substrate. Each pseudobulb should have at least two healthy leaves and a healthy root system. Division should be performed during the plant's dormant period, which is after the flowering period.
Seed propagation
Seed propagation is a feasible method of propagation for Satyrium welwitschii Rchb.f. The seeds should be collected when the seed capsule has turned brown and the seed is mature. To increase the likelihood of successful germination, the seeds should be sown on a sterile substrate with high humidity. It is recommended to use a plastic container and seal it with a lid or plastic wrap to maintain high humidity levels. The container should be kept in indirect light and temperatures between 18°C and 24°C. Ensure proper ventilation by opening the container periodically.
Tissue culture
Tissue culture is a specialized propagation method that involves taking a tiny piece of plant tissue and growing it in a sterile environment with nutrient-rich media. The tissue sample can be taken from any part of the plant, including the flowers or pseudobulbs. Tissue culture is a more complex way of propagating Satyrium welwitschii Rchb.f. and requires specialized laboratory equipment, therefore it is best left to the experts.
Disease and Pest Management for Satyrium welwitschii Rchb.f.
Satyrium welwitschii Rchb.f. is a beautiful, delicate orchid that requires special care to thrive. As with any plant, disease and pests can cause problems that must be addressed. Here are a few of the most common diseases and pests that may affect Satyrium welwitschii Rchb.f., and some tips for managing them.
Diseases
One of the most common diseases that can affect Satyrium welwitschii Rchb.f. is fungal infection. If you notice brown spots on the leaves or stems, or a white powdery substance on the leaves, your plant may be suffering from a fungal infection. To manage this disease, it is important to keep your plant dry. Avoid watering the plant from the top, and make sure that the soil has good drainage. You may also need to treat the plant with a fungicide, which can be found at most garden centers.
Another disease that may affect Satyrium welwitschii Rchb.f. is bacterial infection. This may appear as dark, water-soaked spots on the leaves or flowers. To manage this disease, it is important to remove any infected plants or plant parts immediately. Also, avoid over-fertilizing the plant, as this can make it more susceptible to bacterial infections.
Pests
One of the most common pests that may affect Satyrium welwitschii Rchb.f. is spider mites. These tiny pests may appear as small red or brown dots on the leaves, and they can cause the leaves to wither and die. To manage spider mites, it is important to keep the plants well hydrated and to mist them frequently. You may also need to treat the plants with an insecticidal soap or oil, which can be found at most garden centers.
Another pest that may affect Satyrium welwitschii Rchb.f. is scale insects. These small, dome-shaped insects may appear as tiny white or brown bumps on the leaves, stems, or flowers. To manage scale insects, it is important to remove any infected plants or plant parts immediately. You may also need to treat the plants with an insecticidal soap or oil.
Overall, the key to managing disease and pests in Satyrium welwitschii Rchb.f. is to maintain a healthy plant through proper watering, fertilization, and temperature control. With these measures in place, your plant is more likely to resist disease and pest infestations.
