Origin
Bartholina pectinata (Thunb.) R.Br. is a species of orchid that is native to South Africa. It can be found growing in several parts of the country, including the Cape Peninsula and the Eastern Cape.
Common names
Bartholina pectinata is commonly known as the "Yellow Unicorn Orchid" due to the shape of its petals. Additionally, it is sometimes called the "Pectinate Bartholina" or "Pectinate Plume Orchid."
Appearance
Bartholina pectinata plants typically grow to be around 30cm in height and produce a single stem with several blooms that can be up to 3cm in diameter. The flowers of the Yellow Unicorn Orchid are striking, with bright yellow petals that curve backward from the center of the flower in a horned shape. The plant's leaves are long and narrow, resembling blades of grass.
Uses
Bartholina pectinata is primarily grown for ornamental purposes and can be a popular addition to gardens and floral arrangements. In traditional medicine, the plant has been used for treating coughs and colds and for its potential anti-inflammatory properties.
Light Requirements
Bartholina pectinata requires high light intensity to grow well. The plants should be placed in bright, indirect sunlight for at least 6-8 hours per day. Too little light can cause stunted growth or yellowing of the leaves.
Temperature Requirements
The ideal temperature for Bartholina pectinata growth is between 20-35°C. It is important to keep the temperature consistent, as drastic changes can stress the plant. If the temperature drops below 10°C, the plant may stop growing altogether.
Soil Requirements
Bartholina pectinata requires a well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil pH should be between 5.0-6.5. The plant prefers a loose substrate that allows air to circulate in the roots. A mixture of orchid bark, perlite, and peat moss is ideal for the plant.
Cultivation Methods
Bartholina pectinata is a terrestrial orchid that requires warm temperatures to grow well. It can be propagated through seeds, although this process may take longer for the plant to mature. Alternatively, you can divide mature plants and replant them in fresh, well-draining soil mix.
When planting, ensure that your soil is well-draining and rich in organic matter. Be careful not to bury the plant's rhizome too deep in the soil since it grows just beneath the surface. This plant thrives in partial shade to full sun, depending on the climate.
Watering Needs
Bartholina pectinata requires regular watering, especially during the growing season. Watering should be done when the soil is dry to the touch. Avoid waterlogging since this plant can't tolerate stagnant water. In case of drought, the soil should be irrigated thoroughly. It can withstand short dry periods, but a lack of water can cause leaf shedding.
Fertilization
During the growing season, especially when the orchid is producing new leaves and buds, Bartholina pectinata requires regular fertilization using an orchid-specific fertilizer. This plant can do well with a balanced orchid fertilizer like 20-20-20 or a much leaner option such as 10-10-10. You should feed this orchid about twice a month but avoid over-fertilization, which may cause salt buildup in the soil mix.
Pruning
Bartholina pectinata only requires a light pruning to maintain its aesthetics. Deadheading during the blooming season is recommended to encourage new blooms and growth. If your orchid develops yellow or brown leaves, you can prune them back to promote new growth. This plant is quite resilient and will quickly recover after pruning.
Propagation of Bartholina pectinata (Thunb.) R.Br.
Bartholina pectinata (Thunb.) R.Br. is propagated using two main methods:
Seed Propagation
Seeds of Bartholina pectinata can be collected from the parent plant and used for propagation. The seeds are tiny and require a well-draining medium that is moist but not waterlogged. Seeds should be sown between the months of April and July to attain the best results.
Once the seeds are sowed, they should be covered with a thin layer of soil and placed in a location with consistent light and temperature. The ideal temperature range is between 20 and 25°C. The seeds will germ within two to four weeks.
Vegetative propagation
Bartholina pectinata can be propagated vegetatively through the division of rhizomes or shoots. The process is best done in the early spring months.
To propagate through the division of rhizomes, the roots are washed and separated into sections, each containing a healthy rhizome and shoot. The section is then replanted in a well-draining medium in a location with ample sunlight.
Propagation through the division of shoots involves separating new shoots from the parent plant and planting them in separate pots. In this method, ensure that each new shoot has healthy roots before separation and planting.
Common Diseases and Pests of Bartholina pectinata
Bartholina pectinata, also known as the butterfly orchid, is a beautiful orchid that can be grown indoors or outdoors. Unfortunately, like most plants, it is susceptible to various diseases and pests. Here are some of the common diseases and pests that might affect this plant and ways to manage them.
Diseases
1. Fungal diseases: The butterfly orchid is prone to fungal diseases such as root rot, leaf spot, and powdery mildew. To manage these diseases, it is important to keep the plant in well-draining soil, avoid overwatering, and maintain good air circulation. Fungicides can also be used to treat fungal infections.
2. Bacterial diseases: Bacterial infections such as bacterial leaf spot can also affect the butterfly orchid. These infections can cause yellowing and spotting on the leaves. To manage bacterial infections, infected leaves should be removed, and the plant should be treated with a copper-based fungicide.
Pests
1. Spider mites: These pests are common in indoor settings and can cause yellowing and stunted growth. To manage spider mites, the plant should be sprayed with an insecticidal soap or neem oil. It is also important to maintain good humidity levels around the plant.
2. Scale insects: These pests can be identified by their small, oval, and brownish shells on the plant. They can cause leaf yellowing and excessive sap excretion. To manage scale insects, an insecticidal soap or neem oil should be applied to the plant. Infected leaves and stems should also be removed and disposed of properly.
3. Mealybugs: Mealybugs look like small, white, fluffy insects that can damage the plant by sucking on its sap. To manage mealybugs, the plant should be sprayed with insecticidal soap or neem oil. It is also important to maintain good humidity levels and to keep the plant away from other infected plants.
By taking these measures, gardeners and plant enthusiasts can ensure that their Bartholina pectinata will remain healthy and beautiful, free from diseases and pests.
