Origin and Common Names
Brachycorythis kalbreyeri Rchb.f. var. glandulosa Braid is a rare species of orchid found in central and western Africa. It is commonly known as the Sticky Short Column Orchid or the Kalbreyer's Brachycorythis.Appearance
The Sticky Short Column Orchid is a small perennial plant that typically grows up to 20 cm tall. It has a single leaf that is oval in shape and measures about 10 cm in length. The flower stalks are slender and bear a few flowers that are small in size, ranging from yellowish-white to greenish-yellow in color. The unique feature of the Sticky Short Column Orchid is its lip, which is characterized by a sticky pad and a short column. The sticky pad, located at the base of the lip, helps in the pollination process by trapping small insects that are attracted to the flower. The short column, located above the sticky pad, carries the reproductive organs of the flower.Uses
The Sticky Short Column Orchid is a rare and endangered species, and it has no known traditional or medicinal uses. However, it is highly valued by orchid enthusiasts for its unique appearance and growing requirements. It requires specific conditions to grow and reproduce, and it is often cultivated in botanical gardens and private collections. The Sticky Short Column Orchid serves as an important ornamental plant, adding beauty to gardens and public spaces.Light Requirements
Brachycorythis kalbreyeri Rchb.f. var. glandulosa Braid prefers partial to full sunlight exposure. In its natural habitat, it grows on the edges of forests where it receives filtered sunlight. It needs at least 4-6 hours of sunlight per day to thrive.
Temperature Requirements
The ideal temperature range for this species is between 18°C to 25°C. It can tolerate temperature fluctuations to some extent depending on the season. During summers, a maximum temperature of 30°C can be tolerated, while in winters, it can withstand temperatures as low as 10°C.
Soil Requirements
The plant prefers well-draining soil that is high in organic matter, like mosses and leaf litter. The ideal pH range for its growth is 5.5 to 7.5. It can also grow in slightly acidic to alkaline soil. A mixture of peat, sphagnum moss, and perlite or sand is recommended for potting purposes. The plant also needs constant moisture but must be protected from waterlogging, as it can lead to root rot.
Cultivation methods
Brachycorythis kalbreyeri Rchb.f. var. glandulosa Braid is a terrestrial orchid that thrives in well-drained, slightly acidic to neutral soil. It grows well in shaded areas, especially under trees or in forests. If you want to cultivate it, plant seeds or bulbs in moist, well-draining soil with a pH of 6.5 to 7.5. The best time to plant is in early spring when the soil is beginning to warm up, and the roots can quickly establish themselves.Watering needs
Watering is an essential aspect of caring for Brachycorythis kalbreyeri Rchb.f. var. glandulosa Braid. It needs moderate watering, and you must ensure that the soil is never too soggy or too dry. Water the plant thoroughly once a week or whenever the top two inches of soil feel dry to the touch. Always water at the base of the plant, avoiding the leaves and stems.Fertilization
Fertilization is crucial in enhancing the plant's growth and ensuring a bountiful bloom. You can feed the plant every two weeks during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. Avoid over-fertilizing as this encourages foliage growth at the expense of blooms. As the plant enters the dormant stage, reduce feeding to once a month.Pruning
Pruning is not necessary for Brachycorythis kalbreyeri Rchb.f. var. glandulosa Braid. However, you need to remove dead or yellowing leaves to prevent the accumulation of pests and diseases. Removing spent flower spikes also encourages the plant to produce more blooms in the next season. Use clean, sharp snips to avoid any damage to the healthy parts of the plant.Propagation of Brachycorythis kalbreyeri Rchb.f. var. glandulosa Braid
Brachycorythis kalbreyeri Rchb.f. var. glandulosa Braid is a terrestrial orchid that can be propagated by using division or seed sowing methods.
Division Method
In the division method, the mature and healthy plant is carefully removed from the soil with the help of a garden fork. The roots must be carefully cleaned to remove any dirt or debris. After that, the plant is divided into clumps, ensuring that each clump has a good amount of roots and at least two to three healthy pseudobulbs. The clumps can then be potted in a prepared potting mix and watered regularly until new growth begins.
Seed Sowing Method
The seed sowing method is a little complicated than the division method as orchid seeds are very small and require specific environmental conditions for germination. The seeds must be collected when the capsules mature and turn yellowish-brown. These seeds must be sown on a nutrient-rich agar medium in a culture vessel. After sowing, the seed vessels should be kept in a clean and sterile environment. The ideal temperature for germination is around 25-30°C with high humidity. It can take several weeks or months for the seeds to germinate. After that, the young seedlings can be carefully transplanted into the prepared potting mix consisting of peat or sphagnum moss and perlite.
Disease Management
The Brachycorythis kalbreyeri Rchb.f. var. glandulosa Braid plant is susceptible to various diseases that can reduce its growth and even lead to its death. Some of the common diseases that can affect this plant include:
- Leaf Spot: This is a fungal disease that causes circular spots on the leaves. The spots may vary in color from yellow to brown and may have a halo around them. The disease can be managed by removing the infected leaves and using a fungicide.
- Rust: This is a fungal disease that causes orange-brown spots on the leaves. The disease can be managed using a fungicide.
- Root Rot: This is a fungal disease that affects the roots of the plant. It can be caused by poor drainage or overwatering. The disease can be managed by improving drainage and avoiding overwatering.
Pest Management
Brachycorythis kalbreyeri Rchb.f. var. glandulosa Braid plant can also be attacked by pests. Some of the common pests that can affect this plant include:
- Spider Mites: These pests are tiny and can be difficult to see. They cause the leaves to turn yellow and may leave webbing on the plant. The pests can be managed by using insecticidal soap.
- Thrips: These pests are slender and have wings. They cause the leaves to turn silvery or brown. The pests can be managed by using insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Caterpillars: These pests can feed on the leaves and flowers of the plant. They can be managed by manually removing them or using insecticidal soap.
