Overview
Schizoglossum eylesii S.Moore, also known as the African tongue orchid, is a species of orchid that is native to Africa. This plant has both ornamental and medicinal uses.
Appearance
The African tongue orchid is a terrestrial orchid that grows up to 45 cm tall. Its leaves are dark green and ovate in shape, with a length of up to 10 cm. The plant produces flowers that are approximately 3-4 cm wide, with cream-white petals and sepals. The lips of these flowers have a yellow-brown color and are fringed. The flower spikes are long-lasting, often blooming for several months.
Common Names
“African tongue orchid” is the most common name for Schizoglossum eylesii S.Moore. It is also known by other names, such as Eyles' slipper orchid and green flower orchid.
Uses
Schizoglossum eylesii S.Moore is used as an ornamental plant in gardens and also as a cut flower. The flowers have a pleasant fragrance and are often used in floral arrangements. In traditional medicine, the plant is used to treat various ailments, including coughs and sore throats. The roots are boiled and the resulting decoction is used as a remedy.
Light conditions
Schizoglossum eylesii grows best under bright light conditions. This plant requires a minimum of 6 hours of direct sunlight per day to grow properly. Lack of sufficient light can result in stunted growth and yellowing of leaves. However, care must be taken to avoid exposing the plant to direct afternoon sunlight as it can scorch the leaves.
Temperature conditions
This plant grows well in warm temperatures that range between 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F). Extreme temperatures can be detrimental to the plant's growth. It is important to protect the plant from frost and extremely low temperatures, which can kill the plant.
Soil requirements
Schizoglossum eylesii requires well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter, preferably with a pH range of 5.5 to 6.5. The soil should be moist, but not waterlogged, as the roots can rot in waterlogged soil. It is recommended to mix compost or other organic matter into the soil to improve drainage and provide nutrients to the plant.
Cultivation of Schizoglossum eylesii S.Moore
Schizoglossum eylesii S.Moore is an easy-to-care-for plant that thrives well in a warm and humid environment. It is ideal for indoor cultivation, but it can also grow outdoors in warm climates. To cultivate Schizoglossum eylesii S.Moore, select a well-draining potting mix that is rich in organic matter. It is recommended to plant it in a pot that is twice the size of the plant's root system.
Watering needs of Schizoglossum eylesii S.Moore
Schizoglossum eylesii S.Moore requires regular watering for optimal growth. Water the plant thoroughly, but do not leave it sitting in water as it may cause root rot. Allow the top layer of soil to dry out between each watering. Water the plant more frequently in the summer and less frequently in the winter.
Fertilization of Schizoglossum eylesii S.Moore
Schizoglossum eylesii S.Moore benefits from occasional fertilization. Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer once a month during the growing season. Follow the instructions on the fertilizer package carefully to avoid overfertilizing the plant and causing damage to the roots.
Pruning Schizoglossum eylesii S.Moore
Schizoglossum eylesii S.Moore does not require much pruning, but it may benefit from occasional trimming to maintain its shape. Prune any yellow or wilted leaves as soon as possible to prevent the spread of disease. You may also remove any old or damaged stems to encourage new growth.
Propagation of Schizoglossum eylesii S.Moore
Schizoglossum eylesii S.Moore is a beautiful flowering plant that is typically propagated from cuttings as seeds are not readily available in cultivation. The following are the propagation methods for this plant:
Cuttings
Cuttings of Schizoglossum eylesii S.Moore are the easiest propagation method for this plant, and it's also the most successful. Take a healthy stem that has several nodes, and cut it just below the node with a sharp, sterile knife. Remove all leaves from the lower half of the stem, leaving only two or three leaves on the upper half to photosynthesize.
Dip the end of the stem in rooting hormone and plant it in a well-draining potting mix. Ensure that the soil is moist but not waterlogged and place the cutting in a warm and bright location. You can cover the cutting with a plastic bag to help retain moisture and humidity, which will increase the chances of rooting.
After a month or two, the cutting should have developed roots and can be potted into a larger container or planted in your garden.
Air layering
Air layering is another propagation method for Schizoglossum eylesii S.Moore that can be successful. This method involves wounding a stem by removing a section of the bark, encouraging roots to develop at that location.
To air layer, choose a healthy stem and make a small cut near a node. Remove the bark from around the cut and cover the exposed stem with rooting hormone and moist sphagnum moss. Cover the whole section with plastic wrap to hold in moisture.
The roots should begin to grow in about six to eight weeks, and you can cut the stem just below the new roots and plant it in a new container.
Disease and Pest Management for Schizoglossum eylesii S.Moore
Schizoglossum eylesii S.Moore, commonly known as the African tongue orchid, is a beautiful and unique orchid species. While they are relatively hardy plants, they can still fall victim to diseases and pests.
Common Diseases
One of the most common diseases that can affect Schizoglossum eylesii is root rot, which can be caused by overwatering or poor drainage. To prevent root rot, make sure the plant is potted in a well-draining soil mix and only water when the top inch of soil is dry to the touch. If you suspect your plant has root rot, remove it from its pot, trim any rotting roots, and repot in fresh soil.
Another common disease is leaf spots, which can be caused by various fungal or bacterial pathogens. To prevent leaf spots, make sure the plant is not overcrowded and has adequate ventilation. If you notice leaf spots, remove the affected leaves and improve air circulation around the plant. You can also treat leaf spots with a fungicide or bactericide.
Common Pests
Schizoglossum eylesii is generally not prone to pests, but they can still attract a few common ones such as aphids and mealybugs. Both of these insects feed on plant sap and can cause stunted growth and yellowing leaves. To prevent and manage infestations, inspect your plant regularly for signs of pests and wash them off the leaves with a strong stream of water or treat them with neem oil or insecticidal soap.
Another pest that can affect Schizoglossum eylesii is spider mites, which are tiny arachnids that feed on plant sap and can cause yellowing leaves, webbing, and leaf loss. To prevent and manage spider mites, regularly mist the plant to increase humidity and wash the leaves with a strong stream of water or treat with an insecticide specifically designed for spider mites.
By following these tips for disease and pest management, you can help keep your Schizoglossum eylesii healthy and thriving.
