Introduction
Schizochilus lepidus Summerh. is a flowering plant that belongs to the family Orchidaceae. This orchid species is endemic to Africa and is mostly found in the tropical region of East Africa.
Common Names
Schizochilus lepidus Summerh. is commonly known as the African Ground Orchid, Tiny Forest Orchid, or the Leopard Orchid.
Appearance
Schizochilus lepidus Summerh. is a small-sized perennial herb, reaching a height of 30 to 50 centimeters. It has fleshy roots that produce pseudobulbs, which are small in size and bulbous-shaped. The leaves are thin, pointed, and green in color, with some variations in appearance depending on the subspecies or variety. The flowers are striking and highly ornamental, with shades of white, purple, and yellow. They are relatively small, measuring about 2 to 5 centimeters across, and arranged in racemes of about 6 to 20 flowers.
Uses
The African Ground Orchid has a few uses in traditional medicine and culture. In some cultures, the orchid plant is believed to cure several ailments, including fever, cough, and chest pains. An infusion of the bulbs and leaves is used in some tribes as a remedy for snakebites. In addition, the flowers are used in the production of perfumes and exotic fragrances.
In conclusion, Schizochilus lepidus Summerh. is a beautiful and intriguing plant species that adds value to the African flora. It is impressive to know that this relatively small and unique orchid species has had a few beneficial uses in African culture and traditional medicine.
Light Requirements
Schizochilus lepidus Summerh. is a plant species that requires moderately bright to bright light conditions. The plant needs at least 6 hours of sunlight daily. However, direct sunlight should be avoided as it can scorch the leaves and cause damage to the plant.
Temperature Requirements
The plant requires warm and humid conditions all year round. The optimal temperature range is 20°C to 28°C (68°F to 82°F). Temperatures below 15°C (59°F) or above 32°C (90°F) can cause damage or death to the plant. The temperature should never drop below 10°C (50°F) as it can cause irreversible damage to the plant.
Soil Requirements
Schizochilus lepidus Summerh. requires well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil should be slightly acidic with a pH range of 6.0 to 6.5. The plant can grow in a mixture of materials such as peat, sphagnum moss, perlite, and sand. Schizochilus lepidus Summerh. should be watered regularly, but the soil should not be too wet as it can cause rotting of the roots.
Cultivation methods for Schizochilus lepidus Summerh.
Schizochilus lepidus Summerh. is an epiphytic orchid plant native to the southern part of Africa. It prefers to grow in a well-draining medium such as sphagnum moss, coconut coir, or chopped fir bark. A small-sized pot with adequate drainage holes is ideal for cultivating this plant.
When planting, ensure that the roots are well spread out and then cover them with the growing medium. The plant prefers bright, indirect light and should be placed in a spot that receives at least six hours of sunlight per day.
Watering needs of Schizochilus lepidus Summerh.
As an epiphytic plant, Schizochilus lepidus Summerh. is susceptible to root rot when overwatered. Water the plant thoroughly once per week when the top layer of the growing medium feels dry. However, the frequency of watering depends on the humidity and temperature levels. If the air is dry, the plant may need to be watered more frequently to prevent the roots from drying out.
To prevent water from accumulating in the pot, ensure that it has proper drainage and empty any excess water that flows out of the pot after watering.
Fertilization of Schizochilus lepidus Summerh.
Schizochilus lepidus Summerh. requires regular fertilization during the growing season, which is from spring to fall. Fertilize the plant once every two weeks using a balanced orchid fertilizer with equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Dilute the fertilizer to half strength to avoid overfertilization.
During the winter months, fertilizer applications should be reduced to once per month since the plant is dormant during this period.
Pruning Schizochilus lepidus Summerh.
Schizochilus lepidus Summerh. does not require extensive pruning. However, the dead and yellow leaves should be removed as soon as possible to prevent the spread of diseases. Dead flowers also need to be removed to allow new buds to emerge.
If the plant has overgrown its pot, it may be time to repot it into a larger container. Repotting should be done once every two years, preferably during the spring season. When repotting, care should be taken not to damage the roots.
Propagation of Schizochilus lepidus Summerh.
Propagating Schizochilus lepidus Summerh. can be done through different methods. The most common ways are through division, back bulb propagation, and seed propagation.
Division
Division is the process of separating the plant into different parts to form new plants. It is the most common and easiest method of propagating Schizochilus lepidus Summerh. This method is done during the repotting period, which is usually after flowering. While repotting the plant, carefully separate the pseudobulbs and the roots before planting them in their individual pots. Each division should have at least three pseudobulbs to guarantee successful propagation.
Back bulb propagation
Back bulb propagation is a method where the new plant is grown from old pseudobulbs. This method is ideal for plants that have lost their leaves and flowers but still have healthy bulbs. To propagate using this method, select a healthy back pseudobulb and cut it from the mother plant. Plant the bulbs, with enough spacing to allow for proper growth, and maintain the necessary conditions such as humidity, moisture, and light.
Seed propagation
Seed propagation is a more complex and slower method of propagating Schizochilus lepidus Summerh. Seed pods are formed after successful pollination, which is usually done artificially. The seeds take around three months to germinate, and another two to three months for the seedlings to mature. After which, they can be individually potted. Seed propagation is ideal for creating new hybrids, but it requires a lot of patience, care, and knowledge.
Disease and Pest Management for Schizochilus lepidus Summerh.
Schizochilus lepidus Summerh. is a fascinating orchid that originates from the tropical regions of Africa and Madagascar. Although it is a hardy plant, it could be susceptible to some diseases and pests. Proper management techniques can help to prevent and control damage caused by these pathogens and insects.
Common Diseases
The following are some of the common diseases that can affect Schizochilus lepidus Summerh. :
- Root Rot: This fungal disease often occurs in orchids that are overwatered or planted in poorly-draining soil. To manage this disease, it is important to maintain appropriate moisture levels and use well-draining soil.
- Black Spot: This disease is caused by a fungus that forms spots on the leaves of the orchid. To prevent this disease, it is recommended to avoid overhead watering, provide good air circulation and remove infected leaves to control the spread of the disease.
- Virus: Orchid viruses can cause deformed leaves and flowers. The only management technique for virus-infected orchids is to remove and discard the entire plant.
Pest Management
The following are some of the common pests that can affect Schizochilus lepidus Summerh. :
- Mealybugs: These insects look like white cottony masses and feed on the sap of the plant. To manage mealybugs, remove them manually or use insecticidal soap.
- Scale Insects: These insects feed on the sap of the plant and can cause significant damage. To manage scale insects, use a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol to remove them from the plant
- Spider Mites: These microscopic insects are difficult to see with the naked eye and feed on the leaves of the plant. A rinse with a strong stream of water can remove spider mites from the plant.
In conclusion, proper management techniques for controlling the diseases and pests of Schizochilus lepidus Summerh. are essential. Early detection of these difficulties and swift action can help to protect the health of the plant and promote healthy growth and development.
