Neobolusia

Description

Neobolusia is a genus of orchids that consists of about 20 species. These orchids are native to Africa and grow in a variety of habitats, including forests, grasslands, and rocky areas. The flowers of Neobolusia are typically small and fragrant, with a range of colors from white to pink, purple, and yellow. The plants are epiphytic or terrestrial, and they have pseudobulbs that store water and nutrients.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Neobolusia orchids have pseudobulbs that are typically small and cylindrical. The leaves are usually few in number and are narrow and strap-shaped. The flowers are small and grow on spikes that emerge from the pseudobulbs. They are typically white, pink, purple, or yellow, and they have a sweet fragrance. The lips of the flowers are often fringed or ruffled, and they have a distinctive shape that is characteristic of the genus.

Care Guide

Neobolusia orchids prefer bright, indirect light and should be kept in a well-draining potting mix. They should be watered regularly, but the potting mix should be allowed to dry out slightly between waterings. Fertilizer can be applied during the growing season, but care should be taken to avoid over-fertilization. Neobolusia orchids are hardy in USDA zones 10-12 and should be protected from frost and freezing temperatures.

Common Pests & Diseases

Neobolusia orchids are susceptible to a variety of pests and diseases, including spider mites, scale insects, and fungal infections. Care should be taken to maintain good hygiene practices, such as removing dead plant material and avoiding over-watering. Pesticides and fungicides can be used to control infestations, but care should be taken to follow instructions carefully and avoid overuse.

Habitat

Neobolusia orchids are native to Africa and can be found in a variety of habitats, including forests, grasslands, and rocky areas. They are often epiphytic, growing on trees and other plants, but some species are terrestrial and grow in soil. Neobolusia orchids are adapted to a range of environmental conditions, from hot and dry to cool and moist.

Question and Answer

Q: What is the best way to propagate Neobolusia orchids?

A: Neobolusia orchids can be propagated by dividing the pseudobulbs or by removing and potting up the offsets that emerge from the base of the plant.

Q: How often should I fertilize my Neobolusia orchids?

A: Neobolusia orchids should be fertilized once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.

Q: Can Neobolusia orchids be grown indoors?

A: Neobolusia orchids can be grown indoors if they are provided with bright, indirect light and a well-draining potting mix.

Q: Are Neobolusia orchids endangered?

A: Some species of Neobolusia orchids are considered threatened or endangered due to habitat loss and over-collection for the horticultural trade.

Related Plants

• Angraecum
• Bulbophyllum
• Cattleya
• Dendrobium
• Epidendrum

References

• Cribb, P. (1997). The Genus Neobolusia. Orchid Digest, 61(4), 177-181.
• Griffith, M. P. (2004). The origins of an important African orchid genus, Neobolusia. Systematic Botany, 29(2), 316-326.
• Royal Horticultural Society. (n.d.). Neobolusia. Retrieved from https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/search-results?form-mode=true&query=neobolusia