Overview
Stelis perpusilliflora Cogn. is a species of orchid that is native to South America. Its unique name is derived from its small flowers, which are incredibly tiny for an orchid. This plant was first discovered in Brazil during expeditions in the late 1800s, and has since been found in various neighboring countries.
Common Names
This orchid species is commonly known as the “Tiny Stelis” and “Perpusilla Stelis”.
Appearance
The Stelis perpusilliflora Cogn. is a miniature plant, typically reaching only a few centimeters in height. It is characterized by its single stem from which flowers emerge, each stem containing one to three tiny flowers. The flowers are less than 1 centimeter in diameter and can range in color from greenish-yellow to a reddish-brown. Its leaves are elongated, oblong and curved, and can be up to 2 centimeters long with a width of 5 millimeters.
Uses
Like other orchids, Stelis perpusilliflora Cogn. is a popular ornamental plant for hobbyists and collectors. Its small size and unique flowers make it an attractive addition to any collection. Additionally, some indigenous communities in South America believe that orchids have medicinal properties and use them in traditional herbal remedies for different ailments. However, there is insufficient research to support these claims.
Typical Growth Conditions of Stelis perpusilliflora Cogn.
Stelis perpusilliflora Cogn. is an orchid species that can be grown both indoors and outdoors in the right conditions. Here are some of the typical growth conditions required for this plant to thrive:
Light Requirements
Stelis perpusilliflora Cogn. requires bright but indirect light to grow well. In their natural habitat, they usually grow under the canopy of trees where they receive dappled sunlight.
When growing indoors, placing the plant near a bright window that does not receive direct sunlight is ideal. If grown outdoors, placing the plant under the shade of trees or near a north-facing wall can provide the required light levels.
Temperature Requirements
Stelis perpusilliflora Cogn. requires a cool to warm temperature range to grow well. The ideal temperature range for this plant is between 15°C to 23°C (59°F to 73.4°F).
It is important to avoid exposing the plant to extreme temperatures, such as those below freezing or above 30°C (86°F). High temperatures can cause the plant to wilt, while low temperatures can cause it to drop leaves and stunt growth.
Soil Requirements
Stelis perpusilliflora Cogn. is an epiphytic orchid species that grows on trees or rocks in its natural habitat. Therefore, it does not require soil to grow and can be grown in a variety of potting mediums that simulate its natural habitat.
A suitable potting medium for this plant can include a mix of bark, sphagnum moss, and perlite. It is important to make sure that the potting medium provides good drainage, as wet roots can cause the plant to rot.
Cultivation
Stelis perpusilliflora Cogn. is an epiphytic orchid that thrives in moist and cool environments. It is native to the Andean cloud forests of Colombia, Ecuador, and Peru, where it grows on trees and rocks at elevations between 2000 and 3000 meters. In cultivation, it can be grown in containers or mounted on cork, wood, or tree fern.
Watering Needs
To ensure healthy growth, Stelis perpusilliflora Cogn. requires consistent moisture. Water the plant thoroughly once a week and place it in a well-draining potting mix that retains moisture while providing adequate airflow. Avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot, and keep the plant away from direct sunlight to prevent leaf scorching.
Fertilization
Stelis perpusilliflora Cogn. benefits from regular fertilization to promote vigorous growth and flowering. Use a balanced fertilizer with an NPK ratio of 20-20-20, diluted to half strength, and apply every two weeks during the growing season. Reduce feeding during the fall and winter months when the plant goes dormant.
Pruning
To maintain the health and appearance of Stelis perpusilliflora Cogn., prune the plant regularly to remove dead or yellowing leaves and spent flowers. Use a sharp, sterilized pruning tool to avoid introducing pathogens, and make clean cuts close to the base of the plant. Prune in the early spring before new growth appears.
Propagation of Stelis perpusilliflora Cogn.
Stelis perpusilliflora Cogn. can be propagated through various methods, including division, seed, and vegetative methods.
Division
One of the simplest methods of propagating Stelis perpusilliflora Cogn. is through division. This involves separating the plant into smaller sections and replanting them. It is best to do this during the growing season, when the plant is actively growing. Care must be taken to ensure that each division has healthy roots and shoots.
Seed Propagation
Another method of propagating Stelis perpusilliflora Cogn. is through seed. The seeds are tiny and should be sown on top of a moist, well-draining substrate. It is important to cover the seeds with a thin layer of substrate and to keep them moist until they germinate. The process can be accelerated by using bottom heat and cover with a clear plastic to maintain moisture.
Vegetative Propagation
Stelis perpusilliflora Cogn. can also be propagated through vegetative means, such as stem cuttings or leaf cuttings. Cuttings should be taken from healthy, disease-free plants. After taking cuttings, they should be dipped in rooting hormone and planted in a moist, well-draining substrate. It is essential to keep the humidity up around the cuttings until they show signs of new growth.
Disease Management for Stelis perpusilliflora Cogn.
Stelis perpusilliflora Cogn. is susceptible to some common diseases that affect orchids. The following are some diseases that could affect Stelis perpusilliflora:
- Anthracnose: This disease is characterized by sunken black spots that appear on leaves and flowers. A fungal infection can cause anthracnose. To manage it, discard affected plants and avoid overhead watering.
- Leaf spot: Small, circular, dark spots appear on leaves. The cause of leaf spot could be a fungal or bacterial infection. To manage leaf spot, remove infected leaves and reduce humidity.
- Rust: Rust-colored spots appear on the leaves, and the plant may lose its shine. Rust is caused by a type of fungus. Avoid overhead watering and remove affected leaves to manage rust.
Pest Management for Stelis perpusilliflora Cogn.
Stelis perpusilliflora Cogn. is vulnerable to some common pests that affect orchids. The following are some insects that could affect Stelis perpusilliflora:
- Scale insects: They appear as dark bumps on leaves and stems. Scale insects suck sap from plants, causing yellow spots that may turn into brown spots. To manage scale insects, remove them with a cotton swab dipped in alcohol.
- Aphids: These insects are small, soft-bodied, and green. They feed on the sap of the plant, causing distorted leaves and stunted growth. To manage aphids, hose the plant with a strong stream of water or use insecticidal soap.
- Spider mites: Spider mites are too small to see with the naked eye. They spin webs on the undersides of leaves and cause yellowing and browning of the leaves. To manage spider mites, you can hose the plant with water or use insecticidal soap.
- Thrips: These insects feed on the flowers and leaves of the plant. They damage the plant by distorting the growth and spreading viruses. To manage thrips, use insecticidal soap or neem oil.
