Origin and Common Names
Stolzia repens (Rolfe) Summerh. var. obtusata G.Will., commonly known as Obtuse Stolzia, is a species of flowering plant in the family Orchidaceae. It is native to eastern and western Africa, ranging from Ethiopia to Angola and Zambia. The plant is also known by other common names such as African scented orchid and African Stolzia.
Appearance
The Obtuse Stolzia plant has a distinct look characterized by its erect, creeping stems that are up to 20cm long. Its leaves are fleshy, alternate, and have a length of up to 5cm. The bright green leaves are nearly circular, obovate, and spread out. The inflorescence, which occurs mainly in summer, has flowers in shades of light yellow to cream. The flowers are small, about 1-2cm wide, and typically have 3 sepals and 3 petals. The lip is much larger than the other segments of the flower.
Uses
The Obtuse Stolzia plant is mainly grown as an ornamental plant. Due to its unique look, the plant is used in landscaping to create attractive gardens and flower arrangements. The plant produces fragrant flowers, which are used to make perfume. In some parts of Africa, the plant is believed to have medicinal properties. It is thought to have healing effects for various ailments such as fever, stomach-aches, and skin irritation. However, more research is needed to confirm these claims.
Light Requirements
Stolzia repens (Rolfe) Summerh. var. obtusata G.Will. requires bright but indirect light to grow properly. Direct sunlight can damage the delicate foliage of the plant and should be avoided. A north or east-facing window is ideal for this plant.
Temperature Requirements
The plant requires moderate to warm temperatures to thrive. A temperature range of 18-24°C (65-75°F) is optimal for the growth of this plant. The plant is sensitive to cold temperatures and should be protected from drafts.
Soil Requirements
The plant can grow in a well-draining potting mix containing sand, perlite, and peat moss. The pH range of the soil should be slightly acidic with a pH value of about 6.5 to 7.0. The soil should be kept slightly moist but not waterlogged. The plant is susceptible to root rot, so it is essential to avoid overwatering.
Cultivation methods
Stolzia repens (Rolfe) Summerh. var. obtusata G.Will. is a relatively easy plant to care for and can thrive in a variety of growing conditions. It is commonly grown in pots, hanging baskets or mounted on a piece of wood or bark. When growing the plant in a pot or basket, use a well-draining potting mix with added perlite or sand to aid in drainage.
Stolzia repens (Rolfe) Summerh. var. obtusata G.Will. prefers bright, indirect light and can tolerate some morning or evening sun. It grows well in temperatures ranging from 18°C to 26°C. Ensure that you provide the plant with proper air circulation, and avoid placing it in drafty locations where it may dry out or get too cold.
Watering needs
Watering Stolzia repens (Rolfe) Summerh. var. obtusata G.Will. can be slightly tricky, as the plant requires consistent moisture but does not like to be waterlogged. Water your plant deeply once a week in the growing season, ensuring that the soil is thoroughly wet, but avoid letting the plant stand in water. During the winter, reduce watering to once every two to four weeks, allowing the top soil to dry out slightly between watering.
Fertilization
Feed your Stolzia repens (Rolfe) Summerh. var. obtusata G.Will. with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer every two to four weeks during the growing season. Avoid over-fertilizing, which can cause root burn and damage the plant. During the winter months, the plant does not need fertilization.
Pruning
Stolzia repens (Rolfe) Summerh. var. obtusata G.Will. requires minimal pruning. Pinch back elongated stems to encourage bushier growth, and trim off any yellow or dead leaves. Alternatively, you can remove the plant's lower leaves to reveal the stems' attractive pattern. Removing old growth will not only give the plant a neat appearance but will also reduce the risk of pest infestation and disease.
Propagation of Stolzia repens var. obtusata
Stolzia repens var. obtusata can be propagated through different methods:
Division
The most straightforward method of propagating Stolzia repens var. obtusata is through division. This method involves carefully uprooting the mature plant and dividing it into smaller plants using a sterilized knife or scissors. It's essential to ensure that each divided plant has adequate roots and leaves. The new plants are then potted in well-draining soil, watered, and placed in a shaded area for a few weeks until new shoots emerge.
Stem cuttings
Stem cuttings are another effective method of propagating Stolzia repens var. obtusata. The stem cuttings should be obtained in the spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing. Cut a healthy stem about 5 cm in length just below a node and remove the leaves from the bottom half of the cutting. Dip the cut end of the stem into a rooting hormone to encourage root growth and plant it in well-draining soil. Keep the soil moist and the cutting in a warm, light area to encourage root growth.
Seeds
Propagation of Stolzia repens var. obtusata can also be done through seeds. The seeds can be acquired from the mature plant after flowering. Sow the seeds in a well-prepared seedbed or potting soil, ensuring that the soil is kept moist and warm. Seedlings should emerge within two to three weeks, and they can be transplanted into individual pots when they are large enough to handle.
Propagation of Stolzia repens var. obtusata is relatively easy and straightforward, making it an excellent plant for both experienced and novice gardeners.
Disease and Pest Management for Stolzia repens (Rolfe) Summerh. var. obtusata G.Will.
Stolzia repens (Rolfe) Summerh. var. obtusata G.Will. is a beautiful plant known for its delicate flowers, but like other plants, it may be susceptible to various diseases and pests. Proper management of the plant is vital to keep it healthy and thriving. Here are some common diseases and pests that might affect the plant and suggestions on how to manage them:
Diseases
Root Rot - This disease is caused by overwatering and poor drainage. The infected plant will exhibit yellowing leaves, wilting, and stunted growth. To manage root rot, remove the infected parts of the plant and improve drainage by repotting the plant to a container with better drainage holes. Allow the topsoil to dry slightly before watering again.
Leaf Spot - This fungal disease appears as circular brown spots on leaves. The infected leaves will eventually wither and fall off. To manage leaf spot, remove the infected leaves immediately and avoid overhead watering. Ensure adequate spacing between plants to encourage airflow and reduce humidity, which favors the growth of the fungi. Apply fungicide as appropriate.
Bacterial Blight - This disease causes the leaves to turn yellow and eventually wilt and die. It is caused by contaminated water or infected pruning equipment. To manage bacterial blight, remove the infected parts of the plant, improve drainage, and avoid wetting the leaves. Use sterilized pruning equipment and avoid contact with other infected plants.
Pests
Aphids - These small insects suck sap from plant tissues, causing the leaves to curl and turn yellowish. To manage aphids, wash off the insects with a strong stream of water, prune infected parts, and apply insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Mealybugs - These pests appear as white clusters on the plant, similar to cotton balls. They suck plant sap and secrete honeydew, leading to mold growth. To manage mealybugs, wipe off the clusters with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol, prune the infected parts, and apply insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Spider Mites - These tiny pests are difficult to see and may cause yellowing and stippling of leaves. They thrive in hot and dry conditions. To manage spider mites, increase humidity, prune infected parts, and apply insecticidal soap or neem oil. Use sufficient watering to increase humidity.
With proper management, Stolzia repens (Rolfe) Summerh. var. obtusata G.Will. can thrive and add beauty to your home or garden.
