Description
Platanthera hyperborea (L.) Lindl. var. purpurascens (Rydb.) Luer is a species of orchid that is native to the northern parts of North America. This specific variety can be found in Alaska, Canada, and the northern regions of the contiguous United States. It is commonly known as the Purple Bog Orchid and is a relatively small plant that does not typically grow taller than 20 cm.
Appearance
The Purple Bog Orchid has a single slender stem with two or three alternate leaves that are oblong in shape. The inflorescence is a spike that can produce up to 20 flowers that grow in a spiral pattern around the stem. The flowers themselves are small, measuring between 1 and 2 cm long, and are light purple or reddish-purple in color. They have a tubular shape with a prominent lower lip that curves downward and three smaller petals that curve upwards.
Uses
Because of its attractive appearance, the Purple Bog Orchid is sometimes used as an ornamental plant in gardens or flower arrangements. It can also be used in traditional medicine by indigenous communities, where it is believed to have healing properties for ailments such as rheumatism and stomach issues. Additionally, this plant species can be used in scientific research as an indicator of environmental health as it is quite sensitive to changes in its habitat.
Light requirements
Platanthera hyperborea var. purpurascens prefers partial shade to full sun exposure for optimal growth. However, this orchid can tolerate varying light conditions as it is typical for its natural habitat in wooded areas with dappled light. In cultivation, providing the orchid with at least 50% shade is recommended, especially during the hottest days of the year.
Temperature requirements
This orchid thrives in cool to cold temperatures. The optimal temperature range for Platanthera hyperborea var. purpurascens is between 50°F and 70°F (10°C to 21°C). However, this orchid can tolerate temperatures down to 32°F (0°C) and up to 85°F (29°C). The temperature should be consistent and not subject to rapid fluctuations, as this can harm the orchid's growth.
Soil requirements
Platanthera hyperborea var. purpurascens prefers humus-rich, well-draining soil. This orchid is typically found growing in moist, acidic soils, often in areas with a high water table. In cultivation, providing the orchid with soil that is slightly moist but not waterlogged is recommended. The pH range for the soil should be between 5.0 and 6.5. Adding organic matter to the soil mix can help improve the overall soil quality and drainage.
Cultivation Method
The best way to cultivate Platanthera hyperborea (L.) Lindl. var. purpurascens (Rydb.) Luer is to grow them outdoors in a moist, acidic soil with plenty of sunlight. These plants thrive in cool environments and grow well in rocky and mountainous regions. They need proper drainage, and planting them in a location where soil moisture is consistent is essential.
Watering Needs
These orchids require consistent watering since they grow primarily in moist environments. They need to be watered at least once a week, but the frequency can increase during the summer months. It is vital to keep the soil moist but not overwatered, as orchids are sensitive to excessive water levels. Watering using tepid water is preferable for these orchids.
Fertilization
Proper fertilization of Platanthera hyperborea (L.) Lindl. var. purpurascens (Rydb.) Luer orchids is essential for their growth. These plants require a balanced, slow-release fertilizer with low levels of phosphorus, applied every two weeks throughout the growing season. Overfertilizing the plants could reduce flowering or lead to damage or death of the plant. It is advisable to follow the manufacturer's instructions when applying fertilizer.
Pruning
Pruning Platanthera hyperborea (L.) Lindl. var. purpurascens (Rydb.) Luer orchids is an essential step in their care. You should remove all dead and yellow leaves to encourage the growth of new leaves and ensure that the orchid remains healthy. You can also trim away damaged or dead roots and trim away any old flower spikes that have faded. Always use sterilized tools when pruning the orchids to avoid spreading diseases or infections.
Propagation of Platanthera hyperborea var. purpurascens
Platanthera hyperborea var. purpurascens, commonly known as the purple bog orchid, is a native North American plant that is mainly found in wetland environments such as bogs, swamps, and moist meadows. The plant is typically propagated through the use of seeds or vegetative means such as rhizome divisions. Proper techniques for propagation are essential to ensure a successful outcome.
Propagation by Seeds
Seeds are harvested from mature plants during the fall when the seedpods mature. The seedpods must be fully developed and show no signs of green or immaturity. Seeds can be stored in plastic containers, kept in cool, dark places, or planted immediately. Before planting, seeds must be pretreated through stratification to enhance germination rates. The stratification process involves placing the seeds in a moist medium, such as peat moss, and exposing them to cold temperatures for a period of 90 to 120 days at temperatures ranging from 33°F to 41°F. Once stratification is completed, carefully sow the seeds in containers of soil and place them in a greenhouse set up or appropriate growth conditions. Plants can be transplanted from the greenhouse to the desired location when they have at least two sets of true leaves.
Propagation by Vegetative Means
Propagating by rhizome division involves the separation of the plant's underground stem, section by section, with each section having a healthy set of roots and shoots. Rhizomes can be divided either, during the plant's dormant season, usually in mid-fall, or early spring before new growth occurs, to promote healthy and vigorous growth in new plants. The soil medium should consist of a moist mixture of peat moss, sand, and perlite to provide adequate aeration. The newly transplanted plants should be given proper care and kept in moist soil away from sunlight until there is noticeable new growth.
Disease Management
Platanthera hyperborea (L.) Lindl. var. purpurascens (Rydb.) Luer can be affected by several plant diseases during its growth. Here are some common diseases that can be a problem:
- Fungal leaf spots: These are caused by fungal pathogens that infect the leaves of the plant. Symptoms include circular or irregular-shaped spots on the foliage. To manage fungal leaf spots, it is essential to promote good plant hygiene by ensuring that leaves do not remain wet for too long, and avoiding overhead watering. Furthermore, fungicides can also be used to control the spread of fungal leaf spots.
- Root Rot: This is caused by the fungal pathogen Phytophthora cinnamomi. Symptoms include yellowing and wilting of leaves, and stunted growth. To manage root rot, it is crucial to keep the plant's soil well-drained, and avoid overwatering, and to prune and dispose of affected plants to prevent the spread of the fungus.
- Viral diseases: These can cause mottled leaves, stunted growth, and malformed flowers. Unfortunately, there are no treatments available for viral diseases. Therefore, the best approach is to prevent them from occurring by practicing proper plant hygiene and promptly removing infected plants.
Pest Management
While some pests such as bees are essential for pollination, others can cause harm to Platanthera hyperborea (L.) Lindl. var. purpurascens (Rydb.) Luer during its growth. Below are some common pests that may harm the plant and suggested ways to manage them:
- Mites: These pests can suck the sap from the plant's leaves, causing them to yellow and drop. To manage mites, a natural remedy could be to introduce predatory insects such as ladybugs, maintain plant health, and use horticultural oil sprays.
- Cutworms: These pests can consume the base of the stem, causing the plant to wilt and eventually die. To manage cutworms, it is essential to practice crop rotation, maintain good plant hygiene, and use physical barriers such as collars.
- Deer: These pests can nibble on leaves, buds, and flowers, leading to damage or destruction of the plant. To manage deer damage, installing physical barriers such as deer fencing or repellents such as sprays can be used.
