Origin
Synechoblastus pycnocarpus Nyl. is a species of lichen which commonly grows on the bark of trees in tropical regions. This plant is native to Southeast Asia, particularly in Indonesia, Malaysia, and Papua New Guinea.
Common Names
This lichen plant is commonly known as "Paku Rawa-Rawa" in Indonesia, "Lobaria pycnocarpa" in Malaysia, and simply "lichen" in English.
Uses
Synechoblastus pycnocarpus Nyl. is often used in traditional medicine. The plant extracts are believed to be effective in treating conditions such as hypertension, cough, fever, and headache. In addition, the lichen has been used as a natural dye for clothing textiles and as an ingredient in perfume making.
General Appearance
Synechoblastus pycnocarpus Nyl. typically grows as a dense and heavily-branched complex structure. The plant's body is flat and foliose in shape, with lobed margins. Its surface is often gray-green in color and densely covered with small pores, which are the reproductive structures of the lichen. The lower surface of the plant is blackish in color. The lichen can grow up to 10-15 cm in diameter.
Light Requirements
Synechoblastus pycnocarpus Nyl. requires moderate to bright light for optimal growth. In its natural habitat, this plant grows under the shade of trees or on the edges of forests, receiving dappled sunlight. As a houseplant, it can thrive in a well-lit room with access to natural light or under artificial grow lights that mimic natural sunlight.
Temperature Requirements
This plant prefers moderate temperatures ranging from 18°C to 26°C (65°F to 80°F) during the day and slightly cooler temperatures of 13°C to 18°C (55°F to 65°F) at night. It is not frost-hardy and cannot tolerate extreme heat or cold. Indoor temperatures that match those of its natural habitat are ideal for its growth and development.
Soil Requirements
Synechoblastus pycnocarpus Nyl. prefers well-draining and nutrient-rich soil that retains moisture without becoming waterlogged. A mixture of peat moss, perlite, and sand is ideal for this plant. It thrives in slightly acidic to neutral soil with a pH range of 5.5 to 7.0. The soil should be kept evenly moist, never allowing it to dry out completely, but also avoiding standing water that can lead to root rot.
Cultivation Methods
The Synechoblastus pycnocarpus Nyl. is a small leaved plant that is native to humid places in tropical Africa. To cultivate this plant indoors, you will need a spacious pot with properly drained soil. This plant is also adaptable to outdoors, though it's not suitable for direct sunlight. It thrives best in moist environments and in temperatures ranging from 60°F - 75°F.
Watering Needs
The Synechoblastus pycnocarpus Nyl. requires regular watering during the growing season. You must keep the soil moist but not waterlogged to avoid root rot. In winters or when the plant is dormant, you can reduce watering to avoid excess moisture retention that could lead to fungal diseases.
Fertilization
The Synechoblastus pycnocarpus Nyl. needs a nutrient-rich soil to thrive. You can fertilize the plant twice a month during the growing season with a balanced liquid fertilizer.
Pruning
Regular pruning is essential for maintaining the plant's size and shape. You can keep the plant from growing too aggressively by pruning back the stem tips and removing dead leaves or flowers as necessary. It is advisable to prune during spring and summer seasons when the plant is actively growing.
Propagation of Synechoblastus pycnocarpus Nyl.
The Synechoblastus pycnocarpus Nyl. plant is propagated mainly through two methods. These are:
1. Seed propagation
Seeds are the primary means of reproduction in Synechoblastus pycnocarpus Nyl. plants. The seeds are small and can be collected from mature plants. After collecting, the seeds need to be dried and stored for a period until they are ready to be used.
When planting seeds, it is important to select a suitable location with well-drained soil. The seeds should be planted at a depth of about 1-2 cm and covered with soil. Water the seeds regularly to maintain a moist environment that helps them germinate. The seedlings should be transplanted about one year after germination.
2. Vegetative propagation
Synechoblastus pycnocarpus Nyl. plants can also be propagated vegetatively, mainly through stem cuttings. Cuttings should be taken from healthy plants with mature stems. The cuttings should be about 10-15 cm long and should have at least two or three leaves on them. The stem should be cut at an angle to increase the surface area for rooting.
The cuttings should be dipped in a rooting hormone and planted in well-drained soil. Covering the cuttings with a clear plastic bag can help maintain a high level of humidity, which is essential for their survival. The cuttings should be watered regularly but not too much to avoid root rot. After four to eight weeks, the cuttings should have developed roots, and they can be transplanted to individual pots.
Disease and Pest Management for Synechoblastus pycnocarpus Nyl
Synechoblastus pycnocarpus Nyl., commonly known as the Bamboo Orchid, is a hardy plant that can withstand harsh conditions. However, it is still susceptible to diseases and pests like any other plant. It is important to identify these threats early and take preventive measures to protect the plant from damage.
Common Diseases
One of the most common diseases that affect Bamboo Orchids is black spot. This is a fungal disease that causes black spots to appear on the leaves and reduces the plant's ability to photosynthesize. To manage black spot, remove the affected leaves and ensure that the plant is not overwatered. Fungicides can also be used to treat the disease.
Another disease that can affect the Synechoblastus pycnocarpus Nyl. is rust. This is another fungal disease that causes orange or brown spots on the leaves. Rust can be managed by removing the affected leaves and using fungicides to prevent further spread.
Common Pests
One of the most common pests that can affect the Bamboo Orchid is the spider mite. These pests suck the sap from the leaves and cause them to turn yellow or brown. To manage spider mites, spray the plant with a mixture of water and soap or neem oil. Alternatively, predatory mites can be introduced to the plant to feed on the spider mites.
Scale insects are another pest that can affect the Bamboo Orchid. These pests feed on the sap of the plant and can cause yellowing and wilting of the leaves. To manage scale insects, use a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol to remove the pests from the plant. Alternatively, introduce predators like ladybugs or lacewings to feed on the scales.
General Preventive Measures
To prevent diseases and pests, it is important to ensure that the Bamboo Orchid is planted in well-draining soil and receives adequate sunlight. Overwatering and overcrowding can also lead to the development of diseases and pests, so it is important to ensure that the plant is watered properly and not crowded with other plants.
In conclusion, Synechoblastus pycnocarpus Nyl. is a hardy plant but still susceptible to diseases and pests. By taking preventive measures and identifying threats early, the plant can be protected from damage and can thrive in any environment.