Plant Description
Platanthera hyperborea (L.) Lindl. var. viridiflora (Cham.) Luer, commonly known as the green-flowered northern bog orchid, belongs to the family Orchidaceae. It is a perennial herb that grows up to 60 cm tall. The plant has a single, erect stem with basal leaves and one to a few smaller leaves on the stem. The inflorescence is a dense spike of green flowers that bloom from June to August. The flowers are small and night-scented with a length of about 1.5 cm. The plant's roots are fleshy and cylindrical with a white color.
Plant Origin and Distribution
The green-flowered northern bog orchid is native to North America, particularly in Alaska, Canada, and Greenland. This plant is generally found growing in bogs, fens, and open wetlands. It prefers moist environments and can endure high elevations up to 2500 meters above sea level.
Common Names
Aside from the green-flowered northern bog orchid, Platanthera hyperborea (L.) Lindl. var. viridiflora (Cham.) Luer has other names such as bog green orchid, northern green bog orchid, and northern green orchid.
Plant Uses
The green-flowered northern bog orchid holds some significance in traditional and modern medicines. Some parts of the plant contain bioactive compounds that can be used for medicinal purposes such as treating diseases, injuries, and pain. Additionally, this plant is popular among orchid collectors and horticulturists as an ornamental plant. However, the plant is rare and is considered endangered in some areas. As such, collectors and horticulturists must obtain them legally and with proper permits to keep the plant from becoming extinct.
Growth Conditions of Platanthera hyperborea var. viridiflora
Light Requirements: Platanthera hyperborea var. viridiflora prefers full sun to partial shade. It thrives in open areas with little to no shade, making it well-suited for meadows and open woods.
Temperature Requirements: This plant typically grows in cold climates, including subarctic and alpine areas. It can tolerate cooler temperatures and prefers a cooler growing environment. The ideal temperature range for Platanthera hyperborea var. viridiflora is between 45°F to 60°F.
Soil Requirements: Well-draining soil is necessary for the growth of this plant to avoid waterlogged conditions. It grows well in moist soil that has a pH ranging from slightly acidic to neutral. This plant favors nutrient-rich soil, but not excessively rich. Rocky, gravelly, or sandy soil is ideal for its growth.
Water Requirements: This plant has average water needs, and it grows best in moderately moist soil. It is essential to provide enough moisture for the plant to thrive, but it should not be overwatered.
Propagation: Propagation of Platanthera hyperborea var. viridiflora can be done through seed collection, division, and rhizome cuttings. Seeds typically germinate in the spring, making it the best time for seed collection. Division should be done during the dormant season when the plant is not actively growing. Rhizome cuttings should be taken in early spring or late fall for successful propagation.
Cultivation Methods
Platanthera hyperborea (L.) Lindl. var. viridiflora (Cham.) Luer is a warm-weather, sun-loving orchid that prefers well-drained soil. It needs a temperature range between 60-90°F and high humidity of about 60-70%. Its cultivation is significant in the US, Chile, and Peru.
Watering Needs
This orchid species requires a watering regime that involves keeping the potting medium moist. Over-watering is the most common cause of orchid plant death, so avoid watering the orchid every day. Instead, check the moisture level by sticking your finger to about an inch into the potting medium. If it feels dry, then it is time to water the orchid, and if it feels wet, you can wait for another day or two before watering again.
Fertilization
Fertilizing this orchid species is necessary, especially during the growing season. Use a balanced fertilizer at half-strength every two weeks for best results. Avoid over-fertilizing as it may lead to salt build-up in the potting medium, which could damage the orchid's roots.
Pruning
Pruning Platanthera hyperborea (L.) Lindl. var. viridiflora (Cham.) Luer is essential to promote healthy growth and to avoid the spread of disease. Remove dead, yellow, or damaged leaves and flowers regularly. This plant could also benefit from a light pruning at the end of the flowering season to help it grow healthier and fuller in the next season.
Propagation of Platanthera hyperborea var. viridiflora
Platanthera hyperborea var. viridiflora, commonly known as the northern green bog orchid, typically grows in cool, moist, and shaded environments, such as bogs, fens, and swamps. The following are a few methods of propagating this plant:
Seed Propagation
Seed propagation is the most common method for propagating Platanthera hyperborea var. viridiflora. Collect the seeds from the plant when the seedpods are mature but before they split. Clean and dry the seeds and store them in a cool, dry place. To germinate the seeds, cold stratification for 60-90 days is required, which mimics natural winter conditions. After cold stratification, sow the seeds in pots in moist potting soil and place them under bright, but indirect light. Keep the soil moist, and the seeds will germinate in 4-6 weeks.
Division Propagation
You can propagate Platanthera hyperborea var. viridiflora by dividing rhizomes. Dig up the plant in early spring when new growth emerges, and gently separate the rhizomes into smaller sections, ensuring that each section has some roots and a few healthy shoots. Plant the divided rhizomes in pots or outdoor beds, in moist soil that is rich in organic matter. During the initial stages, provide partial shade to protect the plant from direct sunlight and harsh weather conditions.
Cuttings Propagation
Propagation of Platanthera hyperborea var. viridiflora through cuttings is difficult because the plant does not produce many suitable stems in a season. However, if you can find suitable stems, you can cut them into sections, preferably with one or two nodes, and place them in moist soil containing a rooting hormone. Cover the pot with plastic wrap to help retain moisture, and place the pot under bright indirect light. Rooting may take several weeks to several months.
With the right conditions, Platanthera hyperborea var. viridiflora can be propagated through seed, division, or cuttings. Seed propagation is the most common and reliable method, but division and cuttings are other options to consider.
Disease and Pest Management for Platanthera Hyperborea
Platanthera hyperborea (L.) Lindl. var. viridiflora (Cham.) Luer, commonly known as green-flowered northern bog orchid, is a delicate perennial plant that grows in wetland habitats. Disease and pests can cause damage to the plant, affecting its growth and overall health. Below are some common diseases and pests that might affect the plant and ways to manage them.
Diseases
Orchids are susceptible to several diseases, including fungal, bacterial, and viral infections. Some of the common diseases that might affect Platanthera hyperborea include:
Leaf Spot
Leaf spot is caused by a fungal infection that manifests as dark spots or patches on the leaves. The disease can spread quickly in wet conditions and cause severe damage to the plant. To manage leaf spot, remove the infected leaves and spray the plant with a fungicide. Ensure that the plant has adequate ventilation and is not overcrowded.
Rust
Rust is another fungal disease that appears as yellow to orange spots on the leaves. The spots turn brown and develop raised pustules, which release spores that spread the disease. To manage rust, remove the infected leaves and spray the plant with a fungicide. Ensure that the plant is not overcrowded and receives adequate light and air circulation.
Viral Infections
Viral infections are difficult to manage, and there is no cure for them. The symptoms of viral infections include stunted growth, yellowing of leaves, and distorted leaves. To manage viral infections, remove the infected plant parts and isolate the plant to prevent the disease from spreading to other plants.
Pests
Several pests can cause damage to Platanthera hyperborea, affecting the plant's growth and overall health. The common pests that might affect the plant include:
Aphids
Aphids are small, pear-shaped insects that feed on the plant's sap, causing stunted growth and yellowing of leaves. To manage aphids, spray the plant with insecticidal soap or wash them off with a strong stream of water. You can also introduce natural predators like ladybugs and lacewings to control the aphid population.
Spider Mites
Spider mites are tiny arachnids that feed on the plant's sap, causing yellow or bronze discoloration of leaves. To manage spider mites, spray the plant with water to wash off the mites or introduce natural predators like ladybugs and predatory mites.
Slugs and Snails
Slugs and snails feed on the plant's leaves, leaving irregular holes and slime trails behind. To manage slugs and snails, handpick them and dispose of them or create barriers like copper tape or eggshells around the plant to prevent them from reaching the plant.
Regular inspection and maintenance of the plant can help identify signs of disease and pest infestations early on, allowing prompt action to manage them. Proper cultural practices like providing adequate light, water, and air circulation can also help the plant grow healthy and resilient to disease and pest attacks.
