Amphiglottis corymbosa auct. non (Lindl.) Britt.
Amphiglottis corymbosa auct. non (Lindl.) Britt., commonly known as the Bog-orchid or Bitter-bloom, is a perennial herbaceous plant of the orchid family found primarily in North America. It belongs to the Tribe Orchideae within the Family Orchidaceae.
Origin
Amphiglottis corymbosa is native to the wet meadows, bogs and fens of North America. It can be found growing in a wide range of habitats that include swamps, marshes, wetlands, stream banks, and seeps, which are low-lying areas near water.
Common Names
The plant is commonly known as the Bog-orchid or Bitter-bloom. It is also referred to as the Large-flowered Rattlesnake Plantain, Heart Leaved Twayblade, and in some regions, the Adder's Mouth.
Appearance
Amphiglottis corymbosa auct. non (Lindl.) Britt. has a stout, erect stem that grows up to 1 meter tall and 6 millimeters diameter. It has a basal rosette of leaves and grows to a height of 30 to 100 cm. The leaves are glossy, 6 to 20 cm long and 2.5 to 10 cm wide, elliptical in shape, and have parallel veins.
The flowers of Amphiglottis corymbosa auct. non (Lindl.) Britt. are numerous and grow in a compact raceme. They are radial symmetrical and resupinate, facing downwards. Each flower has three sepals and petals, with the middle petal modified into a labellum. The flowers are generally white, with some having shades of pink or purple, and are fragrant. They bloom from June to August.
Uses
Amphiglottis corymbosa auct. non (Lindl.) Britt. is not commonly used for medicinal or edible purposes, but its flowers are known to attract and feed bees, butterflies, and other pollinators. It is also a prized ornamental plant, popular in gardens for its attractive flowers and glossy foliage.
Light Requirements
The plant Amphiglottis corymbosa auct. non (Lindl.) Britt. grows well in a bright, partially shaded location. It requires at least 4-6 hours of sunlight per day but cannot tolerate direct sunlight for extended periods.
Temperature Requirements
The plant thrives at temperatures ranging from 10 to 30°C (50 to 86°F) with a humidity level between 50-70%. It can tolerate a temperature range from 5 to 35°C (41 to 95°F) but care should be taken to avoid excessive heat or cold stress.
Soil Requirements
The soil for Amphiglottis corymbosa auct. non (Lindl.) Britt. should be well-drained and have a pH level ranging from 5.5 to 7.5. The plant thrives in fertile, loamy soil with good organic matter that can retain moisture. A mixture of peat moss, sand, and perlite can also be used to improve soil drainage and aeration.
Cultivation Methods
Amphiglottis corymbosa auct. non (Lindl.) Britt. is easy to cultivate and can be grown in pots or directly in the ground. It prefers a well-drained soil that has a slightly acidic to neutral pH level.
The plant prefers a spot with partial shade and thrives in humid environments. It can tolerate temperatures ranging from 50°F to 85°F (10°C to 29°C).
Amphiglottis corymbosa auct. non (Lindl.) Britt. can be propagated by dividing the rhizomes during the growing season. Make sure each division has at least 2 to 3 bulbs and replant in a well-draining soil mixture.
Watering Needs
It is essential to keep the soil consistently moist, but not waterlogged. Water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry. Overwatering may cause root rot, which can cause significant damage to the plant.
Water the plant with filtered or distilled water instead of hard tap water. Hard water may cause calcium buildup in the soil, reducing the soil's pH level and affecting the plant's growth.
Fertilization
Amphiglottis corymbosa auct. non (Lindl.) Britt. prefers a balanced fertilizer, and the application should be done during active growth. During the growing season, apply a half-strength balanced liquid fertilizer once a month.
Be mindful not to over-fertilize the plant, as this can cause the leaves to turn yellow and the root system to become unhealthy.
Pruning
Amphiglottis corymbosa auct. non (Lindl.) Britt. does not require significant pruning. However, pruning can be done to remove dead or yellowing leaves or to control the plant's size. Use clean, sharp scissors or garden shears and make the cut as close to the stem as possible. Regular pruning can promote a fuller and more robust plant.
Propagation of Amphiglottis corymbosa auct. non (Lindl.) Britt.
Amphiglottis corymbosa auct. non (Lindl.) Britt., commonly known as the Prairie nymph orchid, can be propagated through various methods:
1. Division of pseudobulbs
The most common propagation method for Amphiglottis corymbosa auct. non (Lindl.) Britt. is through division of pseudobulbs. This should be done during the dormant season, preferably in the spring or autumn. Carefully remove the pseudobulbs from the soil, separating any new growth from the old. Cut the rhizomes apart, ensuring each division has at least one healthy pseudobulb and a few roots. Replant the divisions in fresh potting mix, keeping them lightly moist until new growth appears.
2. Seed propagation
Propagating Amphiglottis corymbosa auct. non (Lindl.) Britt. from seed is a more challenging method but can be rewarding. Fresh seeds should be sown in a mixture of sphagnum moss and perlite, kept consistently moist but not wet. The seed tray should be kept in a warm location with bright, indirect light. Germination can take several weeks to months. Once the seedlings have developed several leaves, they can be transplanted into individual pots.
3. Division of clumps
Amphiglottis corymbosa auct. non (Lindl.) Britt. can also be propagated through division of clumps. This method involves carefully loosening the soil around the clump of plants, separating the individual plants while being mindful of the roots. Each plant should have at least one pseudobulb and a few healthy roots. Replant the individual plants in fresh potting mix and water thoroughly.
Overall, with proper care and attention, Amphiglottis corymbosa auct. non (Lindl.) Britt. can be successfully propagated through these methods, providing an opportunity to expand your collection or share with fellow enthusiasts.
Disease and Pest Management for Amphiglottis corymbosa
Amphiglottis corymbosa is a relatively hardy plant that requires minimal maintenance. However, like most plants, it is still vulnerable to certain diseases and pests.
Common Diseases
One common disease that may affect Amphiglottis corymbosa is fungal leaf spot. This can appear as small, yellow or brown spots on the leaves, and can eventually cause them to drop off. To manage this disease, it is important to promptly remove and destroy any infected leaves. Also, avoid getting water on the leaves when watering the plant.
Another disease that may affect Amphiglottis corymbosa is root rot. This is often caused by overwatering or poor drainage, and can cause the plant to wilt and become yellow. To prevent root rot, make sure the plant is planted in well-draining soil and that it is not watered excessively.
Common Pests
One common pest that may affect Amphiglottis corymbosa is spider mites. These tiny pests can cause yellowing and stippling on the leaves. To manage spider mites, try spraying the plant with a solution of water and dish soap, or a commercial insecticidal soap.
Another pest that may affect Amphiglottis corymbosa is mealybugs. These pests can be identified by their cotton-like appearance on the leaves and stems. To manage mealybugs, try wiping them off with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol.
In summary, managing diseases and pests for Amphiglottis corymbosa involves promptly removing and destroying infected plant material, avoiding overwatering or poor drainage, and using natural or commercial insecticides as needed.
