Overview
Spathulopetalum arachnoideum (P.R.O.Bally) Plowes is a plant species that is native to Madagascar. It is a member of the Orchidaceae family and is commonly referred to as "Spider Orchid" due to its distinctive appearance.
General Appearance
The plant typically grows up to 30 cm in height and has long, narrow leaves measuring about 10 cm in length. The flowers are incredibly unique and fascinating; they appear as though a spider has spun a silky web over them. The flower has a white coloration with purplish-pink veins running through it, making it look stunning.
Uses
Spathulopetalum arachnoideum (P.R.O.Bally) Plowes is mainly grown as an ornamental plant in gardens or as houseplants. Since it is rare to find in nature, people enjoy keeping it indoors and exhibiting it to anyone who comes over. This plant has become a popular option among plant enthusiasts due to its beautiful web-like blooms.
Cultivation
Spathulopetalum arachnoideum (P.R.O.Bally) Plowes requires well-drained soils and bright yet indirect light. These plants are challenging to grow, which is why they are usually kept as indoor plants. They thrive best under high humidity and at temperatures between 20 and 25 degrees Celsius.
Conclusion
Spathulopetalum arachnoideum (P.R.O.Bally) Plowes is an awe-inspiring plant that has beautiful web-like flowers. This plant is mainly used as an ornament and kept indoors due to its rare nature. Proper care and cultivation can result in healthy growth and a perfect, stunning plant that one cannot help but marvel at.
Light Requirements
Spathulopetalum arachnoideum grow well under bright, indirect light. However, to avoid damaging the plant, it is important to protect it from direct sunlight which can scorch their leaves. In case the plant does not receive sufficient light, its growth may be stunted.
Temperature Requirements
Spathulopetalum arachnoideum thrive well in warm temperatures that range between 20°C-30°C. These plants cannot withstand extreme temperatures, and therefore, they should be kept away from cold draughts and extreme variations in room temperature. In addition, the temperature should not fall below 16°C during the night.
Soil Requirements
The ideal soil requirements for Spathulopetalum arachnoideum should contain a mixture of peat, perlite, and bark. These plants prefer well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil should have a pH range between 6.0 and 6.5. It is also important to make sure the soil remains uniformly moist, but not water-logged, as these plants are vulnerable to root rot.
Cultivation methods
Spathulopetalum arachnoideum, also known as the spider orchid, is an epiphytic plant that grows on trees or rocks in its natural habitat. When cultivating this plant, it is essential to recreate its natural environment as much as possible. The plant requires bright, filtered light, and temperatures ranging from 18 to 26°C. While it can handle brief temperature drops, it cannot tolerate long periods of cold. It is best suited for warm and humid conditions.
When planting the spider orchid, it is crucial to provide it with a well-draining growing medium. An ideal growing media should contain bark, sphagnum moss, perlite, and other materials that enable water to flow through easily. The plant can be grown in pots or mounted on bark or wood. If planting in a pot, ensure that it has many drainage holes to prevent waterlogging.
Watering needs
The spider orchid requires moderate watering to thrive. It is best to water when the growing media feels dry to the touch. Overwatering can lead to root rot and other health problems. It is essential to maintain humidity levels at around 60-70%. The plant can be misted regularly or grown in a humid environment or in a tray of water to increase humidity levels.
Fertilization
The spider orchid requires fertilization during the growing season, which is typically spring to autumn. It is best to use a balanced liquid fertilizer every two weeks. Avoid fertilizing when the plant is not in an active growth phase or during cold weather.
Pruning
The spider orchid requires minimal pruning. The plant's flower spikes can be cut back after blooming to avoid energy wastage. Any dead or diseased leaves should be removed as soon as they are noticed to prevent the spread of disease and maintain the plant's health. The spider orchid also benefits from occasional repotting to refresh the growing media and promote healthy growth.
Propagation Methods for Spathulopetalum arachnoideum
Spathulopetalum arachnoideum is a beautiful epiphytic orchid that originates from Madagascar and makes a stunning addition to any collection. Being an epiphytic orchid, Spathulopetalum arachnoideum plant can grow on trees without causing any harm to the host. Propagating this orchid is not only an excellent way to create more plants but also an exciting project for any orchid lover. The following are the main propagation methods for Spathulopetalum arachnoideum:
Division Propagation Method
Division is a common propagation method for many orchids, including Spathulopetalum arachnoideum. This method involves dividing the orchid plant into smaller clumps, each with its growth point or pseudobulb. Division should be done during the growing season, ensuring that each division has healthy roots. After dividing the clumps, the individual plants should be re-potted in suitable orchid media and kept in a warm and humid environment.
Keiki Propagation Method
Another propagation method for Spathulopetalum arachnoideum is through Keiki. Keiki is a Hawaiian word that means "baby," and it's used to refer to an orchid's small plantlets that grow from the nodes of the flower spike. Keiki propagation method can be achieved by bending a flower stem until it touches moist sphagnum moss. After a while, roots will emerge from the Keiki, and it can be detached from the mother plant and potted individually.
Tissue culture Propagation Method
Tissue culture is a propagation method that uses a laboratory to clone plants, and it's a relatively new and less common method for orchids. Tissue culture propagation method involves removing a sample from a healthy Spathulopetalum arachnoideum plant and placing it on a nutrient-rich medium in a laboratory. Over time, cells from the sample grow and develop into new plants. This method requires a sterile environment and skilled personnel.
In conclusion, propagating Spathulopetalum arachnoideum is easy and exciting and can be achieved through division, Keiki, and tissue culture methods. Successful propagation requires providing ideal growth conditions and being patient. By trying out these methods, orchid lovers can expand their collections and enjoy the beauty of Spathulopetalum arachnoideum.
Disease Management
Spathulopetalum arachnoideum is prone to fungal and bacterial diseases due to its habitat preferences. The following are some of the common diseases that might affect the plant and ways to manage them:
Fungal Diseases
Leaf Spot: This disease is caused by the fungus Cercospora sp. and appears as small brown spots on the leaves. To manage leaf spot, remove and destroy infected leaves and avoid overhead watering. Use a fungicide on remaining foliage to prevent further damage.
Root Rot: This disease is caused by several pathogens, including Rhizoctonia and Fusarium sp. The plant will start to wilt, leaves will fall, and the stem will become soft and mushy. To manage root rot, remove infected plants from the growing area, improve drainage, and avoid overwatering.
Bacterial Diseases
Soft Rot: This disease is caused by Erwinia sp. and affects the stem and leaves. The plant will show wilting and yellowing of leaves, followed by rotting stem tissues. To manage soft rot, remove and destroy infected plants, disinfect pruning tools, improve air circulation, and avoid overwatering.
Pest Management
Spathulopetalum arachnoideum is prone to pest attacks, including mealybugs, spider mites, and scale insects. The following are some ways to manage these common pests:
Mealybugs
Symptoms: White, cottony masses on the leaves and stem. The plant will start to wilt, leaves will fall, and the stem will become soft and mushy.
Management: Prune off and discard heavily infested plant parts. Spray infected areas with a soap or alcohol solution every three to four days until the infestation is gone.
Spider Mites
Symptoms: Leaves with yellow speckles or stippling, and eventually, silvery webbing on the leaves
Management: Spray the plant with a strong stream of water every other day to dislodge the mites. Apply an insecticidal soap solution on the leaves and stem. Repeat the process after a week to control any remaining spider mites.
Scale Insects
Symptoms: Sticky material on the leaves that attracts ants. Yellowing or dropping off of leaves, and stunted growth.
Management: Wipe off the scales individually with a cotton swab soaked in rubbing alcohol. Spray the plant with insecticidal soap or horticultural oil every seven days until signs of the scale insects are gone.
