Schizoglossum aschersonianum Schltr. var. radiatum N.E.Br.
Schizoglossum aschersonianum Schltr. var. radiatum N.E.Br. is a rare and beautiful orchid species that has its origin in southeastern Africa. The plant is known by several common names such as the Tongue orchid, Crested Tongue orchid, and the Radiated Tongue orchid. It is a terrestrial herb that is found growing at high elevations in grasslands, rocky areas, and disturbed habitats.
Appearance
The Schizoglossum aschersonianum Schltr. var. radiatum N.E.Br. grows up to 30cm in height and has a clump of leaves that are narrow and elongated. The leaves line up in a basal rosette and are about 5-8cm long and 0.5-1cm wide. The flowers of this orchid species are captivating and come in various shades of pink, purple, and white. The inflorescence is a long spike that tapers upwards with at least 5 flowers arranged in a spiral pattern. The sepals and petals are narrow and elongated, and the lip is curved and tongue-like with radiating lines.
Uses
The Schizoglossum aschersonianum Schltr. var. radiatum N.E.Br. has no well-known medicinal or economic uses. However, it is a highly sought after plant by orchid enthusiasts and horticulturalists for their gardens and plant collections. The plant requires special care and attention as it is sensitive to temperature changes, light intensity, and soil moisture. Thus, it is ideal for experienced orchid growers or those who are willing to learn how to cultivate this rare and magnificent species.
Light Requirements
Schizoglossum aschersonianum Schltr. var. radiatum N.E.Br. thrives in bright but indirect light. Direct sunlight can be harmful to the plant and cause the leaves to burn. It is advisable to place the plant at a north-facing window or provide it with filtered light. Too little light can also affect the plant's growth, causing it to become leggy and lose its vibrant colors.
Temperature Requirements
The plant prefers warm temperatures between 70-85°F (21-29°C) during the day and cooler temperatures between 60-65°F (15-18°C) at night. Rapid temperature changes can affect the plant's growth, so it's best to avoid placing it near drafty windows or air conditioning units. In winter, it's advisable to keep the plant away from cold windows to prevent damage from frost.
Soil Requirements
Schizoglossum aschersonianum Schltr. var. radiatum N.E.Br. prefers well-draining, loose, and nutrient-rich soil. The best soil composition is a mixture of peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite. The plant also prefers slightly acidic soil with a pH between 5.5-6.5. The soil should be kept moist, but not waterlogged to prevent root rot. It's advisable to water the plant when the soil feels dry to the touch but not completely dry.
Cultivation methods for Schizoglossum aschersonianum Schltr. var. radiatum N.E.Br.
Schizoglossum aschersonianum Schltr. var. radiatum N.E.Br. is an epiphytic orchid that is native to the tropical rainforests of Brazil and Ecuador. It grows best in warm, humid conditions and needs to be kept out of direct sunlight.
When cultivating Schizoglossum aschersonianum Schltr. var. radiatum N.E.Br., it is essential to choose a well-draining medium that will not hold excessive water. A popular medium choice for this plant is a mix that contains coconut husk or fiber, sphagnum moss, and perlite or bark chips.
Schizoglossum aschersonianum Schltr. var. radiatum N.E.Br. is a slow-growing plant and should not be repotted too frequently. A healthy plant will produce new growth each year, and it is best to repot the plant only when it outgrows the container.
Watering needs for Schizoglossum aschersonianum Schltr. var. radiatum N.E.Br.
The watering needs of Schizoglossum aschersonianum Schltr. var. radiatum N.E.Br. are essential to maintain good health and growth. It is best to water this plant evenly and thoroughly, ensuring that it does not dry out excessively between watering.
The frequency of watering depends on climate and growing conditions, but it is generally recommended to water twice a week during hot and dry conditions. When the plant is in a cooler setting, it can be watered once a week. Make effort to keep the water temperature consistent with the ambient temperature of the plant.
The plant should be misted regularly to maintain high hydration levels required by the plant species.
Fertilization for Schizoglossum aschersonianum Schltr. var. radiatum N.E.Br.
You can apply a balanced orchid fertilizer to Schizoglossum aschersonianum Schltr. var. radiatum N.E.Br. once a month. However, it is crucial to reduce the dosage to half the recommended amount to avoid over-fertilization, leading to leaf and root damage.
It is best to feed the plant during the growing months, and fertilizer should be avoided when the plant is rooting, dormant, or experiencing low temperatures.
Pruning Schizoglossum aschersonianum Schltr. var. radiatum N.E.Br.
The plant's aerial roots should not be pruned except for the old or yellow ones that dry out. The roots assist in the plant's nutrient absorption and should not be tampered with because the plant's health partly depends on them.
Leaves should be cut away at the base when they turn yellow to encourage new growth and maintain healthy foliage free from diseases. Any wilted flowers or spikes also need to be removed from the plant.
Pruning should be carried out gently, and any cut surface should be swabbed with disinfectant. Sterilizing the pruning tools with a sharp blade or disinfected razor blade is essential to avoid damaging the plant or spreading infections.
Propagation of Schizoglossum aschersonianum Schltr. var. radiatum N.E.Br.
Schizoglossum aschersonianum Schltr. var. radiatum N.E.Br. is propagated both through its seeds and by division of the plant's clumps.
Propagation via seeds
The seeds of Schizoglossum aschersonianum Schltr. var. radiatum N.E.Br. can be sown at any time of the year but the best time would be in the spring season when the ambient temperature is suitable for plant growth. The seeds should be sown in a potting mixture containing perlite, vermiculite, and peat moss. The pot should be covered with a clear plastic bag before being placed in a shaded area that receives indirect sunlight. The seedlings will emerge within 10 to 30 days.
Propagation via division
The clumps of Schizoglossum aschersonianum Schltr. var. radiatum N.E.Br. can be divided during the active growing months of the plant. The clumps can be gently dug up and the individual plants can be separated from each other. Each plant must have a healthy root system and should be replanted in a suitable potting mixture. The plant should be watered thoroughly and placed in a shaded area before being gradually introduced to direct sunlight.
Disease and Pest Management for Schizoglossum Aschersonianum Schltr. var. Radiatum N.E.Br.
Schizoglossum aschersonianum Schltr. var. radiatum N.E.Br., also known as Radiant Tongue Orchid, is a beautiful plant that is native to Southern Africa. The plant is highly susceptible to a range of diseases and pests. Effective disease and pest management are critical to keeping the plant healthy and attractive. Below are some common diseases and pests of Schizoglossum aschersonianum Schltr. var. radiatum N.E.Br. and ways to manage them.
Diseases
Crown Rot: Crown rot is one of the most common diseases that affect Schizoglossum aschersonianum Schltr. var. radiatum N.E.Br. The disease is caused by the fungus Phytophthora and can cause rapid plant death. Infected plants have yellowing leaves, blackened stems, and brown, mushy roots. The disease is prevalent in areas with high humidity and poor air circulation. Effective management of crown rot involves removing infected plants to prevent the spread of the disease and improve air circulation in the growing area.
Root Rot: Root rot is caused by various fungi and attack the root system. Infected plants typically show yellowing of leaves, wilting, and a weak spindly appearance. Overwatering and poor drainage often contribute to the spread of root rot. Effective management of this disease involves treatment of the roots with a fungicide and changing the plant's growing condition to allow better drainage.
Pests
Thrips: Thrips are tiny insects that are barely visible to the naked eye. They cause damage to the plant by sucking juices from the leaves, which causes leaf curling and discoloration. Management of thrips involves the use of insecticidal soap, pruning infected leaves and reducing humidity in the growing area.
Aphids: Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that cluster on young shoots and leaves. They suck on the sap of the plant and can greatly reduce its vitality. Management of aphids involves washing the plant with water or insecticidal soap, pruning infected leaves and keeping the growing area clean of debris and other organic matter.
Preventive Measures
Effective preventive measures can help keep Schizoglossum aschersonianum Schltr. var. radiatum N.E.Br. healthy and resistant to diseases and pests. These measures include avoiding overwatering and improving drainage conditions. Regular cleaning of the growing area is important to reduce debris and other organic matter, which can harbor pests and pathogens. Quarantining new plants for observation and treatment before introducing them into the growing area can also help avoid the spread of diseases and pests.
