Plant Description
Schizoglossum welwitschii, also known as Rendle’s tongue, is a small herbaceous plant that belongs to the family Gesneriaceae. It is endemic to Angola, a country located in southern Africa. The plant is a perennial that grows up to 30 centimeters in height. Its leaves are spirally arranged and glabrous, with a lanceolate shape and an entire margin. The flowers of Schizoglossum welwitschii are pink or lavender in color, with four petals that are fused at the base, forming a tube-shaped corolla. They bloom in the summer months, from June to August.
Common Names
Schizoglossum welwitschii is commonly known as Rendle’s tongue, in honor of Alfred Barton Rendle, an English botanist who described the plant in the early twentieth century. The plant is also called Angolan violet, although it is not related to the genus Saintpaulia, which includes the popular houseplant known as African violet.
Uses
Although there is little known about the traditional uses of Schizoglossum welwitschii, it is believed that some indigenous communities in Angola may use the plant for medicinal purposes. The leaves of the plant may be used to alleviate skin problems such as eczema or to treat respiratory ailments such as cough or bronchitis. Additionally, Schizoglossum welwitschii is grown as an ornamental plant and can be used in rock gardens, borders, or as a container plant.
General Appearance
Schizoglossum welwitschii is a small and delicate plant with an attractive appearance. Its lanceolate leaves and pink or lavender flowers make it an interesting addition to any garden. As a houseplant, it is easy to care for and can thrive in relatively low light conditions. Schizoglossum welwitschii is a rare and unusual plant that is definitely worth considering for gardeners who want to add some color and variety to their collection.
Growth Conditions of Schizoglossum Welwitschii
Schizoglossum welwitschii (Rendle) N.E.Br. is a tropical plant that is native to Africa. This plant is commonly known as the African tongue orchid and is known for its striking beauty and unique shape. The typical growth conditions for this plant are discussed below:
Light requirements
Light requirements for Schizoglossum welwitschii are intermediate to high. Bright but indirect light is ideal for this plant. Direct sunlight can cause damage to the leaves or even the entire plant. It is recommended to place the African tongue orchid in a shaded area, such as under a tree or near a window receiving bright but indirect light.
Temperature requirements
Schizoglossum welwitschii prefers warm and humid environments. The ideal temperature range is between 18°C to 25°C during the day and around 15°C at night. Avoid exposing the plant to sudden temperature changes, cold drafts or hot spots in the room since this can harm the plant.
Soil requirements
Like many orchids, Schizoglossum welwitschii doesn't grow in soil, but in a specialized medium that allows for proper aeration and quick drainage. The ideal potting mix for this plant should be well-draining and must contain bark, perlite, charcoal, and sphagnum moss. The mix should be able to hold moisture without becoming waterlogged.
Water requirements
The African tongue orchid prefers to be moist all the time but not wet. Overwatering can lead to root rot and eventually kill the plant. The best way to water Schizoglossum welwitschii is to water the plant thoroughly and allow it to dry out partially before watering again. The plant should be watered around once a week during the growing season and less often during dormancy.
With the ideal conditions and proper care, Schizoglossum welwitschii can produce beautiful flowers that last for several weeks. The above guidelines can help cultivate a healthy and strong plant.
Cultivation Methods
Schizoglossum welwitschii plants grow best in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. They require a lot of light, so they should be placed in a spot that receives direct sunlight for at least a few hours each day. These plants prefer warm temperatures and high humidity, so it's best to keep them in a greenhouse or indoors in a bright location. They need good air circulation, so it's important to keep them away from areas with stagnant air.
Watering Needs
Watering Schizoglossum welwitschii plants can be tricky. They need to be kept moist but not waterlogged. Water them deeply once a week, or when the top inch of soil is dry to the touch. When watering, make sure to water the soil directly and avoid wetting the leaves. This will help prevent fungal diseases. It's also a good idea to use a pot with drainage holes to allow excess water to escape.
Fertilization
Schizoglossum welwitschii plants require regular fertilization to thrive. During the growing season, feed them every two weeks with a balanced fertilizer. Alternatively, you can use a slow-release fertilizer once a month. Be careful not to over-fertilize, as this can damage the plant. If you notice any signs of fertilizer burn, such as yellowing leaves or crispy edges, flush the soil with water.
Pruning
Pruning Schizoglossum welwitschii plants is not necessary, but it can help to keep them looking tidy. Remove any dead or damaged leaves as they appear. Once the plant finishes blooming, you can trim off the spent flower stalks to encourage more blooms. In general, avoid pruning too much, as this can stunt the plant's growth or even kill it.
Propagation of Schizoglossum welwitschii (Rendle) N.E.Br.
Schizoglossum welwitschii (Rendle) N.E.Br. can be propagated through various methods such as:
Seed propagation
Seeds are the most common method of propagating Schizoglossum welwitschii. The seeds can be collected and sown in a seed tray or pot. The soil should be well-draining and moist. The seeds should be covered with a thin layer of soil and kept in a warm and humid place. The seeds will germinate within a few weeks, and the new plants can be transplanted when they have developed at least two leaves.
Division
Another method of propagating Schizoglossum welwitschii is through division. The plant can be divided into several sections, and each section should have roots and some stems. The division should be done during the growing season, and the new plant should be planted in well-draining soil and kept moist. The plant will establish itself in the new location within a few weeks.
Cutting propagation
Cuttings can also be taken from Schizoglossum welwitschii. A healthy stem should be selected, and the stem should be cut just below a node. The lower leaves should be removed, and the stem should be placed in a pot with well-draining and moist soil. The pot should be covered with a plastic bag to retain moisture and humidity. The cutting will root within a few weeks, and the new plant can be transplanted when it has developed at least two leaves.
Disease Management
Schizoglossum welwitschii is not known to be affected by any serious diseases. However, it is prone to fungal infections, especially if the plant is over-watered or the soil is poorly drained. One of the most common fungal infections is root rot, which can cause the plant to wilt, turn yellow, and eventually die. To prevent fungal infections, it is important to water the plant only when the soil is dry and improve soil drainage by adding organic matter.
Pest Management
One of the most common pests that can affect Schizoglossum welwitschii is spider mites. These tiny pests can cause damage to the leaves, resulting in yellowing or browning of the foliage. To prevent spider mites, it is important to keep the plant well-hydrated and mist the leaves regularly. If spider mites do appear, they can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil spray.
Aphids can also be a problem for Schizoglossum welwitschii, as they can cause leaf curling, yellowing, and stunted growth. To prevent aphids, keep the plant well-watered and remove any weeds around the plant that could attract these pests. If aphids do appear, they can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil spray.
