Origin
Schizochilus bulbinellus (also known as Bulbine-flowered Schizochilus) is a species of flowering plant that belongs to the Orchidaceae family. This plant is native to South Africa and can be found growing naturally in the Eastern Cape, KwaZulu-Natal, and Mpumalanga provinces.
Common Names
Aside from Bulbine-flowered Schizochilus, this plant is also commonly referred to as the Orchidaceous Schizochilus.
Uses
Due to its unique and stunning appearance, Schizochilus bulbinellus is often grown as an ornamental plant. It can be enjoyed in gardens, landscapes, and as a cut flower to decorate homes and offices. Historically, it has also been used in traditional medicine by South African indigenous tribes to treat various ailments like coughs, colds, and headaches.
General Appearance
Schizochilus bulbinellus is a terrestrial orchid that can grow up to 30 cm tall. It has fleshy, succulent-like leaves that form a basal rosette and can reach up to 12 cm in length. The plant produces multiple stiff and erect stems that bear clusters of up to 15 flowers, which are around 3 cm in diameter. The petals and sepals are white, with pale green, yellow, and brown mottling, and the lip is a bright yellow-orange colour with a bulb-like protrusion at its base.
Light Requirements
The Schizochilus bulbinellus (Rchb.f.) Bolus x S. flexuosus Harv. ex Rolfe plant requires bright, indirect light to grow effectively. Therefore, it must not be exposed to direct sunlight as it can damage the plant, particularly its delicate leaves.
Temperature Requirements
The Schizochilus bulbinellus (Rchb.f.) Bolus x S. flexuosus Harv. ex Rolfe plant prefers warm temperatures between 20-25°C during the day and 15-19°C at night. Extreme temperatures above or below the recommended range can affect the plant's health and growth.
Soil Requirements
The Schizochilus bulbinellus (Rchb.f.) Bolus x S. flexuosus Harv. ex Rolfe plant prefers well-draining soil. It is recommended to use a loose potting mix that is made up of peat, perlite, and sand. The soil's pH should be slightly acidic, between 5.5-6.5. Proper soil preparation, drainage, and pH can significantly impact the plant's growth.
Cultivation
Schizochilus bulbinellus (Rchb.f.) Bolus x S. flexuosus Harv. ex Rolfe, also known as the African Butterfly Orchid, can be cultivated both indoors and outdoors. It is native to South Africa and prefers warm temperatures.
When planting, use a well-draining potting mix and place the orchid in a bright spot with indirect sunlight. Make sure to keep the temperature between 18-25°C.
Watering
The African Butterfly Orchid needs to be watered regularly but not too often. It is essential to avoid waterlogging the potting mix, as it can damage the roots. Wait until the top layer of the soil has dried before watering again. The orchid also benefits from high humidity, so misting it daily can promote healthy growth.
Fertilization
It is recommended to fertilize the African Butterfly Orchid during the growing season, every two weeks. Use a fertilizer designed for orchids and follow the instructions on the package carefully. Over-fertilizing can harm the plant, so it's essential to use the correct amount.
Pruning
Pruning an African Butterfly Orchid is easy. After the orchid has finished flowering, cut back the flower stalk to the base of the plant. The orchid may produce new shoots from its pseudobulbs, and these will eventually grow into new plants.
Propagation of Schizochilus bulbinellus (Rchb.f.) Bolus x S. flexuosus Harv. ex Rolfe
The plant Schizochilus bulbinellus (Rchb.f.) Bolus x S. flexuosus Harv. ex Rolfe can be propagated by various methods such as division, offsets, and seed propagation.
Division
Division is the most commonly used method for propagating Schizochilus bulbinellus (Rchb.f.) Bolus x S. flexuosus Harv. ex Rolfe. This method involves carefully separating the plant into smaller sections. Each section should have a few bulbs and some healthy roots. These small sections can then be potted in a well-draining mix and kept in adequate light and humidity until they begin to actively grow.
Offsets
Offsets refer to new plants that grow at the base of the parent plant. These offsets can be cut off and potted independently once they have started to develop roots. It is important to be gentle when separating these offsets to avoid damaging the parent plant.
Seed propagation
Seed propagation is also possible; however, it is a more complicated process. The seeds must be harvested when they are ripe and sown in a well-draining mix. They should be kept warm and moist, and germination can take several months to occur. Once germination has occurred and the seedlings reach maturity, they can be transplanted into their own pots to grow.
Disease and Pest Management for Schizochilus bulbinellus (Rchb.f.) Bolus x S. flexuosus Harv. ex Rolfe
Schizochilus bulbinellus and S. flexuosus are orchid hybrids that are susceptible to various diseases and pest attacks. As a gardener or orchid enthusiast, it's crucial to know the common pests and diseases that affect these plants and how to manage them.
Common Diseases
1. Bacterial Rot: Caused by Erwinia bacteria, this disease causes soft, watery rotting of the leaves, bulbs, and flowers. To manage bacterial rot, it's essential to maintain proper plant hygiene. Use a sterilized cutting tool or scissors to remove the infected parts and dispose of them. Treat the remaining plant with a copper-based fungicide.
2. Fusarium Wilt: This disease is caused by Fusarium fungi that infect the plant's root system, causing yellowing and wilting of the leaves. To prevent and manage Fusarium wilt, avoid overwatering or under-watering the orchid. Use a fungicide that contains benomyl, copper, or thiophanate-methyl to treat the infection.
Common Pests
1. Spider Mites: These tiny pests are difficult to detect but cause webbing and stippling on the orchid's leaves. Spider mites thrive in dry, dusty conditions, so ensure that the plant's environment is humid. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control spider mite infestations.
2. Scale Insects: Scale insects infest the orchid's stems and leaves, causing yellowing and stunted growth. Use a soft brush or cotton swab dipped in alcohol to remove the insects from the plant. Alternatively, apply a systemic insecticide to control the pest infestation.
General Pest and Disease Management
1. Maintain proper plant hygiene by removing dead leaves, flowers and trimming infected parts.
2. Ensure that the orchid's growing medium is well-draining and aerated to prevent root rot.
3. Avoid overwatering or under-watering the plant. Water the orchid at its base, not on its leaves.
4. Frequently examine the orchid for signs of pest infestation or disease, and take action early to prevent spreading.
5. Use only sterilized tools and containers when working with the plant to avoid cross-contamination.
By following these simple guidelines, you can ensure the healthy growth and longevity of your Schizochilus bulbinellus and S. flexuosus orchids.
