Origin
Schizoglossum atropurpureum E.Mey. subsp. virens (E.Mey.) Kupicha, commonly known as green-tongued fairy slipper, is a species of orchid that is native to the Cape Province of South Africa.
Common Names
The plant is commonly known as the green-tongued fairy slipper due to its green-colored tongue-shaped lip. It is also known as the purple fairy slipper because of the purple spots on the dorsal sepal.
General Appearance
The plant typically grows up to 30cm in height and has a single stem carrying a narrow leaf. The flowers, which are produced in late winter and early spring, are greenish-yellow in color with purple spots on the dorsal sepal and the petals. The green-colored lip has a wavy margin and is shaped like a tongue. The flowers are borne singly or in pairs on long, slender stalks arising from the base of the plant.
Uses
The green-tongued fairy slipper is mostly grown as an ornamental plant due to its attractive flowers. It is commonly used in rock gardens and woodland gardens where it adds color and interest. The plant requires well-drained soil and partial shade to grow and bloom successfully, and is relatively easy to cultivate.
Light Requirements
Schizoglossum atropurpureum E.Mey. subsp. virens (E.Mey.) Kupicha grows best in partial shade to full shade. While it can tolerate direct sunlight, it prefers some form of shade, particularly during hot summer months. Indoor plants should be placed near a window that receives bright yet indirect light.
Temperature Requirements
These plants prefer to grow in warm temperatures. They can tolerate temperatures ranging from 10°C to 30°C, but they prefer temperatures between 20°C and 25°C. Temperatures below 10°C and above 30°C can be fatal to this species.
Soil Requirements
Schizoglossum atropurpureum E.Mey. subsp. virens (E.Mey.) Kupicha requires well-draining soil. The soil should be rich in organic matter, slightly acidic, and have a pH level between 5.5 and 6.5. These plants can tolerate a range of soils, including sandy and loamy soils, but they prefer soils with good drainage.
During the growing season, it is important to keep the soil moist, but not waterlogged. Watering should be done once a week, or when the top inch of the soil feels dry to the touch. During the winter months, watering should be reduced, and the plants should be allowed to experience a period of rest.
Cultivation Methods
Schizoglossum atropurpureum E.Mey. subsp. virens (E.Mey.) Kupicha is a species of plant that thrives in bright, indirect light and warm temperatures. The plant is native to southern Africa and grows best in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
When planting Schizoglossum atropurpureum E.Mey. subsp. virens (E.Mey.) Kupicha, the plant should be placed in a pot that is large enough to accommodate its root system. It is recommended to use a mix of perlite, peat moss, and vermiculite to create a suitable soil mixture for the plant.
The plant should be watered regularly, but over-watering should be avoided as it can cause root rot. A simple way to test whether the plant needs watering is to stick a finger into the soil up to the second knuckle. If the soil feels dry, then it's time to water the plant.
Watering Needs
The Schizoglossum atropurpureum E.Mey. subsp. virens (E.Mey.) Kupicha requires moderate and consistent watering. The plant should be watered when the soil feels dry to the touch. It is recommended to water the plant deeply rather than frequently, as this promotes healthy root growth.
In the winter months, when the plant is in a dormant state, watering should be reduced to prevent over-watering. If the air in the room where the plant is kept is dry, it may be necessary to mist the plant occasionally to maintain the plant's preferred levels of humidity.
Fertilization
Fertilization is an important aspect of ensuring the healthy growth of Schizoglossum atropurpureum E.Mey. subsp. virens (E.Mey.) Kupicha. During the growing season (spring and summer), the plant should be fertilized once a month using a balanced fertilizer.
In the winter months, when the plant is dormant, fertilization can be reduced or stopped altogether. Over-fertilizing the plant can lead to the accumulation of salts in the soil, which can damage the plant's root system.
Pruning
Schizoglossum atropurpureum E.Mey. subsp. virens (E.Mey.) Kupicha does not require extensive pruning. However, it is recommended to prune the plant occasionally to maintain its shape and remove any dead or damaged leaves or stems.
When pruning the plant, it is important to use sterile pruning tools to prevent the spread of disease. The best time to prune the plant is in the spring, before the growing season begins.
If the plant becomes too large and cumbersome, it may be necessary to repot the plant into a larger container to accommodate its size.
Propagation of Schizoglossum atropurpureum E.Mey. subsp. virens (E.Mey.) Kupicha
Schizoglossum atropurpureum E.Mey. subsp. virens (E.Mey.) Kupicha is a terrestrial orchid that can be propagated through various methods. The preferred method for commercial growers is sterile tissue culture, but home gardeners can easily propagate these orchids through seed sowing or division of the pseudobulbs.
Propagation through Seed Sowing
To propagate Schizoglossum atropurpureum subsp. virens through seed sowing, it is necessary to obtain fresh seeds. The seeds have a very short viability period, and it is essential to sow them as soon as possible after harvesting. To sow the seeds, take a seedling tray and fill it with a medium that drains well, such as perlite or vermiculite. Moisten the medium without making it waterlogged before sowing the seeds. The seeds must be spread evenly on the surface without overcrowding so that they can germinate correctly. Cover the tray with plastic to maintain a humid environment, and place it in a warm and well-lit area out of direct sunlight. Germination can occur anywhere from a few weeks to a couple of months.
Propagation through Division
Propagation through division is the most practical method for home gardeners. The best time to divide Schizoglossum atropurpureum subsp. virens is when the plant enters the growth stage after flowering. Carefully remove the plant from its pot and take out the pseudobulbs, ensuring each section has at least one mature pseudobulb and some roots. Use a sterilized knife or scissors to cut the rhizome, making sure to avoid damaging the roots and new shoots. Dust the wound with fungicide to prevent rot, and plant the divisions in a suitable potting mix. Water the newly potted orchids and keep them in a warm and well-lit place, protected from direct sunlight until established.
Common Diseases and Pests of Schizoglossum atropurpureum E.Mey. subsp. virens (E.Mey.) Kupicha
Schizoglossum atropurpureum E.Mey. subsp. virens (E.Mey.) Kupicha is a beautiful plant but may be susceptible to a range of pests and diseases. It is important to monitor the plant for any signs of diseases or pests to prevent them from spreading and causing severe damage.
Diseases
One of the most common diseases that affect Schizoglossum atropurpureum E.Mey. subsp. virens (E.Mey.) Kupicha is fungal diseases. Symptoms include brown spots, yellowing of leaves, and premature leaf drop. Fungi thrive in damp environments, so adding too much water to your plant can result in fungal growth. To manage fungal diseases, it is recommended to use a fungicide and remove any diseased plant material to prevent the spread of the disease.
Bacterial diseases may also affect the plant, resulting in the presence of water-soaked spots on the foliage and dark, rotten areas on the stems and roots. To prevent bacterial infections, avoid getting water on the plant when watering and avoid overcrowding plants to provide proper air circulation. Remove the affected areas as soon as possible to prevent bacterial growth.
Pests
Several pests may damage Schizoglossum atropurpureum E.Mey. subsp. virens (E.Mey.) Kupicha, including mites, mealybugs, and scale insects. These pests suck the sap from the plant, causing yellowing of leaves and stunted growth. In severe infestations, the affected plant may die.
To manage pests, it is recommended to use insecticide and, for severe infestations, dispose of the plant to prevent pests from spreading to other plants. It is essential to monitor Schizoglossum atropurpureum E.Mey. subsp. virens (E.Mey.) Kupicha regularly to detect any signs of pests and diseases.
In conclusion, by observing the plant and being attentive, you can maintain the health of Schizoglossum atropurpureum E.Mey. subsp. virens (E.Mey.) Kupicha. Proper disease and pest management will ensure that the plant remains beautiful and healthy over time.
