Overview
Cynorkis kassneriana Kraenzl. subsp. tenuior Summerh. is a species of orchids found in Madagascar. It belongs to the family Orchidaceae and is known for its impressive appearance and unique characteristics.
General Appearance
The Cynorkis kassneriana Kraenzl. subsp. tenuior Summerh. is a terrestrial orchid with slender stems that can grow up to 30-40 cm tall. The leaves are broad and glossy, with a deep green color that contrasts with the vibrant purple flowers. The flowers are arranged on a spike and are about 2-3 cm long, with a thick central lip and elongated petals.
Common Names
The common name of Cynorkis kassneriana Kraenzl. subsp. tenuior Summerh. is not widely known, but it is sometimes referred to as the "Madagascar spikemoss orchid" due to its specific location of origin.
Uses
Not many uses have been identified for Cynorkis kassneriana Kraenzl. subsp. tenuior Summerh., but the plant is mainly cultivated for ornamental purposes. Gardeners and collectors appreciate the unique appearance of the orchid, which makes it an ideal addition to any garden or botanical collection.
Growth Conditions for Cynorkis kassneriana Kraenzl. subsp. tenuior Summerh.
Light requirements: Cynorkis kassneriana Kraenzl. subsp. tenuior Summerh. is a shade-loving orchid species that requires low to moderate levels of light. They grow best under dappled light or partial shade conditions, with no direct exposure to sunlight.
Temperature requirements: This plant prefers cooler temperatures, and it is intolerant to hot and dry climates. They can tolerate temperatures between 10°C to 23°C during the day and up to 5°C to 10°C at night. They require a distinct difference between the day and night temperatures for growth.
Soil requirements: Cynorkis kassneriana Kraenzl. subsp. tenuior Summerh. needs well-draining and moist soil to grow properly. These orchids are epiphytic, which means they grow on other plants or objects instead of soil. They require potting media that replicates their natural habitat, such as sphagnum moss, bark chips or perlite, and any other components that can provide them with proper aeration.
Water requirements: Adequate moisture is critical for the growth of this orchid. However, they do not tolerate waterlogged soil or stagnation of water around the roots. They require frequent watering, allowing the potting mix to dry partially between each watering. It is advisable to water them in the morning to allow enough time for the excess water to drain.
Fertilizer requirements: Cynorkis kassneriana Kraenzl. subsp. tenuior Summerh. requires periodic fertilization to provide them with essential nutrients required for their growth. They need diluted balanced fertilizers such as 20-20-20 or 20-10-20, applied once a week during the growing season.
Cultivation Methods
Cynorkis kassneriana Kraenzl. subsp. tenuior Summerh. is a terrestrial orchid that requires a well-draining potting mix that is rich in organic matter. It needs bright but filtered light, excellent air circulation, and moderate humidity to thrive.
You can grow this orchid in pots, hanging baskets, or in-ground. It prefers temperatures between 75-85F in the day and 55-60F at night. In areas with colder winters, it is best to grow this orchid in pots that can be moved indoors during winter months.
Watering needs
Cynorkis kassneriana Kraenzl. subsp. tenuior Summerh. needs to be watered regularly but should not be overwatered. Allow the top inch of the soil to dry out before watering again. It is best to water this orchid in the morning to avoid waterlogging the soil, which can cause the roots to rot.
The orchid can benefit from occasional misting to maintain moderate humidity around the plant, but avoid misting the flowers or leaves as this can promote fungal growth and cause damage.
Fertilization
Cynorkis kassneriana Kraenzl. subsp. tenuior Summerh. should be fertilized regularly during the growing season with a balanced orchid fertilizer. It is best to fertilize the plant after watering to avoid burning the roots and to dilute the fertilizer to half strength.
Young plants should be fertilized once a week, while mature plants can be fertilized every two weeks. Avoid fertilizing the plant during the dormant season.
Pruning
Cynorkis kassneriana Kraenzl. subsp. tenuior Summerh. does not require extensive pruning. However, it is wise to remove dead or yellowing leaves as soon as they appear, as this can attract pests or cause fungal infections.
After the plant has finished flowering, cut the flower stem down to the base of the plant to promote healthy growth. Avoid cutting into the stem as this can harm the plant.
Propagation Methods of Cynorkis kassneriana Kraenzl. subsp. tenuior Summerh.
Cynorkis kassneriana Kraenzl. subsp. tenuior Summerh. is a terrestrial, herbaceous orchid that is endemic to Madagascar. It is a beautiful orchid species characterized by its green flowers, spotted with purple-brownish color, and a long labellum. Cynorkis kassneriana Kraenzl. subsp. tenuior Summerh. can be propagated by two methods:
1. Division
Division is the most common method to propagate Cynorkis kassneriana Kraenzl. subsp. tenuior Summerh. The best time to divide the orchid is after flowering when the old pseudobulbs have started to shrivel. It is essential to wait until the new shoot has started to develop a new pseudobulb. To divide the plant, it is necessary to use a sharp, sterile knife and carefully cut the rhizome, ensuring that each section has at least one healthy pseudobulb. The divided sections should be replanted in the new potting mix, which is well-draining and has a pH range from 5.5 to 6.5.
2. Seeds
Propagation through seeds is a slow and challenging method to propagate Cynorkis kassneriana Kraenzl. subsp. tenuior Summerh., but it is an exciting way to increase the orchid's population. The orchid produces a capsule that contains thousands of tiny seeds. It is necessary to wait until the capsule has started to dry and the seeds have turned brown. The seeds should be sown immediately on the surface of the well-draining potting mix, which has a pH range from 5.5 to 6.5. The pot should be placed in a shaded area, protected from direct sunlight, and kept moist. Germination may take several months, and it can take up to several years for the plant to reach maturity.
Disease and Pest Management for Cynorkis kassneriana Kraenzl. subsp. tenuior Summerh.
Cynorkis kassneriana Kraenzl. subsp. tenuior Summerh. is generally a healthy plant but it can be affected by some diseases and pests. Here are some common diseases and pests that may affect this plant and ways to manage them:
Diseases
Bacterial Soft Rot: This is a common disease that affects the leaves, stems, and roots of Cynorkis kassneriana. It appears as dark spots on the leaves and can spread quickly to other parts of the plant. To manage this disease, it is important to remove and dispose of all infected parts of the plant before they can spread the bacteria. Also, make sure to avoid over-watering the plant and keep the soil well-drained.
Fungal Leaf Spot: Another common disease that can affect Cynorkis kassneriana is the fungal leaf spot. This disease shows up as small, circular, brown or black spots on the leaves. To manage this disease, you can remove and dispose of infected leaves and avoid getting the leaves wet during watering. Using a fungicide on the plant can also help to prevent fungal infections.
Pests
Spider Mites: Spider mites are tiny pests that can be difficult to see with the naked eye. They infest the plant and suck the sap from the leaves, causing them to turn yellow and die. To manage spider mites, you can regularly wipe down the leaves with a damp cloth and keep the humidity levels high. You can also use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control their population.
Mealybugs: Mealybugs are another common pest that can infest Cynorkis kassneriana. They appear as small white insects that cluster on the leaves and stems of the plant. They also suck the sap from the plant and cause it to weaken and die. To manage mealybugs, you can use a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol to remove them from the plant. You can also use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control their population.
