Origin
Tromotriche engleriana, also known as the African spike orchid, is a species of flowering plant found mainly in central and eastern Africa. It is commonly found in countries such as Cameroon, Congo, Gabon, Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda. The plant is a part of the Orchidaceae family and was first described by Schlechter in 1906.
Common Names
The Tromotriche engleriana has a few common names, depending on the region. In Kenya, it is known as the white-fringe orchid while in Tanzania it goes by the name "Kitulo vuvevu" which means grey hairy orchid. In Cameroon, it is referred to as "Oza tagga" while it is called "Engler's Tromotriche" in other regions.
Uses
The Tromotriche engleriana is mostly grown for ornamental purposes. Its beautiful, showy flowers make it a great addition to gardens or homes. However, it also has some medicinal uses in traditional African medicine. The roots of the plant have been used to treat a range of illnesses, including stomach problems, snake bites, and skin conditions such as boils and burns.
General Appearance
The Tromotriche engleriana is a perennial orchid with small, tubular flowers which are greenish-yellow in color. The plant's stem is usually leafless and can grow up to 50cm tall. Its leaves, which are typically hairy and gray-green, are clustered at the base of the plant. The flower spike can bear up to thirty flowers, each with a long slender spur. The flowers are surrounded by long, white, fringed sepals which give the plant a lush appearance. The Tromotriche engleriana blooms in late summer and early fall.
Light Requirements
Tromotriche engleriana (Schltr.) L.C.Leach typically grows in areas with diffused, filtered light. Full sunlight can be harmful to the plant and cause leaf burn, while insufficient light may lead to stunted growth and poor overall health. Thus, it is best to provide the plant with filtered light, such as what it would receive under the canopy of other plants or under a translucent shade.
Temperature Requirements
Tromotriche engleriana (Schltr.) L.C.Leach is a tropical plant which thrives when grown in warm and humid conditions. The ideal temperature range for this plant is between 20°C and 28°C. Avoid exposing the plant to temperatures lower than 10°C, as it can cause damage to the leaves and stem. It is also important to maintain high humidity levels around the plant by misting the leaves frequently or placing it in a room with a humidifier.
Soil Requirements
Tromotriche engleriana (Schltr.) L.C.Leach prefers to grow in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. Soil that is too compact can negatively affect the root system and lead to poor growth. It is recommended to use a peat-based mix along with perlite or vermiculite to ensure adequate drainage. Additionally, the soil pH should be slightly acidic, ranging between 5.5 and 6.5. Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer every two to four weeks during the growing season to ensure optimal growth.
Cultivation
The Tromotriche engleriana (Schltr.) L.C.Leach plant is native to Africa and is well suited to warm weather conditions. It grows best in loamy soil with good drainage. The plant also does well in partial shade or full sun, so it can be grown either indoors or outdoors. It requires a lot of sunlight, but it does not do well in direct sunlight for extended periods of time.
You can grow the plant in a pot, but choose a deep pot or planter to accommodate the plant's root system. You can use standard potting soil with perlite or pumice to improve drainage. Plant the Tromotriche engleriana (Schltr.) L.C.Leach plant at the same depth as it was in its previous container, and firm the soil around it.
Watering Needs
The Tromotriche engleriana (Schltr.) L.C.Leach plant requires moderate watering. Water the plant thoroughly, ensuring the soil is soaked through, but be careful not to overwater. Overwatering can lead to root rot, which can be deadly to the plant. Allow the soil to dry out between watering times. Adjust the frequency of watering based on the humidity level, light intensity, and temperature.
Fertilization
To promote healthy growth, you can fertilize the Tromotriche engleriana (Schltr.) L.C.Leach plant every two weeks during the growing season. Use a balanced liquid fertilizer that contains nutrients like nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Use half the recommended fertilization rate to avoid over-fertilization.
Pruning
The Tromotriche engleriana (Schltr.) L.C.Leach plant requires minimal pruning. You can remove any dead or yellowing leaves, but avoid removing healthy leaves, as they are necessary for photosynthesis. Trim the plant over time to maintain a desired shape or size.
Propagation of Tromotriche engleriana (Schltr.) L.C.Leach
Tromotriche engleriana (Schltr.) L.C.Leach is a beautiful plant that is usually propagated vegetatively due to the difficulty in growing it from seeds.
Division
One of the simplest ways to propagate Tromotriche engleriana is through division. Carefully dig up the plant, and separate the smaller clumps that form at the base of the main plant. Make sure that each clump has enough roots to survive on its own. Transfer them to pots or a separate location, and provide them with the necessary care and watering.
Offsets
Tromotriche engleriana produces offsets that can be used for propagation. The offset, also called a pup or a chick, is a miniature version of the parent plant that grows from the base. Wait until the offset has grown to a reasonable size before carefully separating it from the parent plant. Give the offset a good root system before transferring it to a separate location or pot.
Cuttings
Cuttings can be used to propagate Tromotriche engleriana. Choose a healthy stem that is free from disease, and carefully cut it just below a node. Dip the cut end in rooting hormone and plant it in a well-draining soil. Keep the soil moist and warm until roots have formed and the cutting has started to show new growth.
Tissue culture
Tromotriche engleriana can also be propagated through tissue culture, a process that uses plant cells to grow new plants in a laboratory. This is a more technical method that requires special equipment and knowledge. Tissue culture is useful for mass propagation, as it can produce numerous plants in a short period of time.
Propagation of Tromotriche engleriana is not a very difficult process, and can be achieved through a number of methods. However, it is essential to ensure that the new plants have the same environment and care as the parent plant to ensure their successful growth.
Disease Management
Tromotriche engleriana is susceptible to several fungal diseases, including anthracnose, leaf spot, and powdery mildew. These diseases typically manifest in humid conditions, poor air circulation, and overwatering.
To manage these diseases, ensure proper air circulation around the plant by pruning any overcrowded foliage. Avoid overwatering and irrigate from the base. Use well-draining soil, and sterilize any gardening equipment used on infected plants. Fungicide treatments are also useful in controlling fungal diseases, and the application should follow the manufacturer's instructions.
Pest Management
Several pests can attack Tromotriche engleriana, causing damage to the plant's leaves and flowers. These pests include spider mites, thrips, and aphids. The signs of pest infestation include yellowing or wilting leaves, distorted growth, and insect presence.
To manage pest infestation, use natural predators, such as ladybugs and lacewings or release of beneficial insects. Frequently washing the plant's leaves with a gentle solution of water and mild soap can also help to eliminate small pests. Furthermore, try maintaining the plants in optimal conditions, including normal watering, pruning, and disinfectation of gardneing equipment after use.
if the infestation persists, consider using pesticides, but it is essential to follow the instructions by the manufacturer. The indiscriminate use of pesticides is not only harmful to the plant but also the environment.
