Overview
Schizoglossum filipes Schltr., also commonly known as the Hairy Tongue Orchid, is a unique and beautiful species of orchid that is native to the tropical forests of New Guinea. This plant is known for its striking appearance and distinctive growth habits, making it a popular choice among gardening enthusiasts and collectors.
Description
This orchid species is a medium-sized plant that typically reaches a height of around 20 to 30 centimeters. The plant produces several long, thin stems that are covered in a dense coat of fine hairs. These stems are topped with clusters of small, delicate flowers that range in color from white to green, with purple or pink markings on the lip. The flowers have a distinctive tongue-shaped lip, which is where this orchid gets its common name.
Origins
Schizoglossum filipes Schltr. is native to the island of New Guinea and other nearby islands in the Western Pacific. It is found primarily in the tropical forest regions of these areas, where it grows in shaded areas on the forest floor or on fallen logs.
Uses
The Hairy Tongue Orchid is primarily a decorative plant, prized for its unusual appearance and striking flowers. It is frequently grown as an ornamental plant in gardens and as a house plant, where it is admired for its unique and interesting growth habits. This orchid is also sometimes used in traditional medicine in its native regions, where it is believed to have various medicinal properties. However, further research is needed to determine the effectiveness of these traditional uses.
Light Requirements
Schizoglossum filipes Schltr. requires bright, indirect light to grow and thrive. It can also tolerate filtered sunlight. Direct sunlight should be avoided as it can scorch the leaves.
Temperature Requirements
This plant prefers warm temperatures between 18-25°C (64-77°F). Temperatures below 12°C (54°F) can damage or kill the plant. It is important to protect the plant from cold drafts and sudden temperature changes.
Soil Requirements
Schizoglossum filipes Schltr. grows well in well-draining soil. A rich, peat-based potting mix is recommended for this plant. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged. It is important to ensure adequate drainage to prevent water from sitting in the soil and causing root rot. Adding perlite or sand can improve drainage.
Cultivation
Schizoglossum filipes Schltr., commonly known as the Wandering Jew Orchid is a terrestrial orchid that requires a well-draining, but moisture-retentive growing medium.
It grows best in partial shade, under the natural canopy of tall trees or in regions with dappled sunlight.
The ideal temperature range for growing this orchid is between 18°C and 25°C
Watering Needs
The watering needs of Schizoglossum filipes Schltr. are moderate, and the plant requires regular watering to keep the growing medium evenly moist.
However, it is essential to avoid overwatering, as this can cause the roots to suffocate and potentially lead to root rot.
The frequency of watering can vary depending on the humidity, temperature, and the specific growing medium used. Typically, watering twice a week should be sufficient.
Fertilization
Schizoglossum filipes Schltr. requires regular fertilization to sustain healthy growth and promote flowering. Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer with an N-P-K ratio of 20-20-20 or 10-10-10.
Dilute the fertilizer to half its recommended strength and apply it to the growing medium every two weeks during the growing season (spring to fall).
Pruning
Pruning Schizoglossum filipes Schltr. is generally unnecessary, as it has a naturally tidy growth habit.
However, it is advisable to remove any dead or wilted leaves or flowers promptly. This helps to maintain the overall health of the plant and can encourage additional flowering.
Stake taller plants to prevent them from falling over.
Propagation of Schizoglossum filipes Schltr.
Schizoglossum filipes Schltr. is a terrestrial orchid species native to the Philippines. It is an epiphytic plant that can grow up to 60 cm in height with greenish-yellow flowers. It is mostly found in shady areas of the forest at an altitude of 1000 meters above sea level. If you want to propagate Schizoglossum filipes Schltr., there are two methods that you can use, namely division and seed propagation.
Division Propagation
Division propagation is a method used for Schizoglossum filipes Schltr. by separating clumps of older plants into smaller segments, each containing at least two bulbs. This method is usually done when the plant's growth is restricted due to overcrowding in one pot. It is best to divide the plant during its active growth period, which is usually in spring or fall.
To propagate through division, it is best to follow these steps:
- Carefully remove the plant from its pot, taking care not to damage the roots and break the bulbs.
- Separate the bulbs into small sections, leaving each section with at least two bulbs.
- Plant each bulb section in a pot or container with orchid soil mix.
- Water the newly potted bulbs and place in a shaded area with good air circulation.
- Keep the soil moist, but avoid overwatering as this can lead to rotting roots.
- Regularly monitor the plant's progress and wait for new growth to appear.
Seed Propagation
The second method of propagation is through seed propagation. This method is more complicated than division propagation and takes more time to germinate and grow. However, it is an excellent method for producing a large number of plants from a single parent plant.
To propagate through seed propagation, it is best to follow these steps:
- Collect seed pods from a mature plant a day after flowering.
- Place the seed pods in a paper bag and dry in a cool place for four to five weeks.
- Remove and collect the seeds from each seed pod and place them in a new paper bag.
- Store the seeds in a cool, dry, and dark place for three days.
- Sow the seeds on the surface of a pot with orchid soil mix.
- Spray water on the surface of the soil and cover the pot with clear plastic wrap to retain moisture.
- Place the pot in a moderately lit area or under a fluorescent light.
- Keep the soil moist, but avoid overwatering as this can lead to rotting of the roots.
- Germination may take 4-6 months, but it could take longer in some cases.
- Monitor for new growth and wait for the plant to mature.
Propagation of Schizoglossum filipes Schltr. can be accomplished through division and seed propagation methods. Both methods require patience and care, and regular monitoring for successful growth and development.
Disease and Pest Management for Schizoglossum filipes Schltr. Plant
Schizoglossum filipes Schltr. plant is prone to various diseases and pests, which can severely affect its growth and yield. It is essential to identify the common diseases and pests that might affect the plant and take necessary measures to manage them timely.
Common Diseases
Rhizome Rot: This is a common fungal disease that affects the roots and rhizomes of the plant. The infected parts become soft and mushy, leading to wilting and plant death. To manage rhizome rot, remove the infected parts and improve soil drainage. Avoid over-watering the plant and provide good air circulation.
Leaf spot: Leaf spot is a fungal disease that causes brown or black spots on the leaves. The leaves may also turn yellow and drop prematurely due to severe infection. Manage leaf spot by pruning the affected leaves and provide adequate air circulation. Use a fungicide if the infection is severe.
Bacterial blight: Bacterial blight is a bacterial disease that causes brown or black spots on leaves, stems, and flowers. The infected tissues turn mushy and emit a foul smell. Manage bacterial blight by removing the infected parts and spraying with copper-based fungicide.
Common Pests
Spider mites: Spider mites are tiny pests that feed on the plant sap, leading to stunted growth and yellowing of leaves. Use a strong jet of water to spray the leaves and remove the mites. Use an insecticide if the infestation is severe.
Thrips: Thrips are small insects that feed on plant sap, causing distorted leaves and deformed flowers. To manage thrips, prune the affected parts and spray the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Mealybugs: Mealybugs are small, white, cotton-like pests that feed on the plant sap, leading to wilting and stunted growth. Remove the mealybugs by rubbing them with a cotton swab dipped in alcohol. Use an insecticide if the infestation is severe.
Overall, regular monitoring and timely management of diseases and pests are crucial for the growth and health of Schizoglossum filipes Schltr. plant. Maintain proper hygiene and avoid overcrowding of plants to minimize the risk of disease and pest infestation.
