Description of Platanthera unalascensis (Spreng.) Kurtz var. maritima (Greene) Correll
Platanthera unalascensis (Spreng.) Kurtz var. maritima (Greene) Correll, commonly known as the Alaskan bog orchid, is a unique and striking perennial herb that belongs to the orchid family. It is a native plant of North America and can be found in various locations in Alaska, British Columbia, and other northern regions.
General Appearance
The plant of Platanthera unalascensis (Spreng.) Kurtz var. maritima (Greene) Correll is characterized by its long, slender, and green stem that grows up to 50 cm tall. The leaves are oval to lance-shaped, glossy, and arranged alternately along the stem. The white, fragrant flowers are borne along the stem in a spike that blooms from June to August.
The distinct flowers of Alaskan bog orchid have a prominent, three-lobed lip and two distinctive spurs extending from the base. The petals and sepals are similar in shape and size, and the flowers are generally quite small, about 1 cm in length.
Common Names
The plant Platanthera unalascensis (Spreng.) Kurtz var. maritima (Greene) Correll is known by various common names depending on the location where it is found. In Alaska, it is known as the Alaskan bog orchid, while in British Columbia, it is called the marsh orchid.
Uses
Platanthera unalascensis (Spreng.) Kurtz var. maritima (Greene) Correll is not known to have any significant economic or medicinal uses. However, the plant is highly valued for its ornamental beauty and is sometimes grown in home gardens or in naturalistic settings to add a touch of orchid-like elegance.
Moreover, the Alaskan bog orchid is an important member of the wetland community where it provides food and habitat for various wildlife species such as bees, wasps, and butterflies. The plant can also help prevent soil erosion and filter pollutants from the water, making it an essential part of the ecosystem.
Light Requirements
Platanthera unalascensis var. maritima typically prefers partial to full sunlight exposure. The plant cannot survive in total shade, as it requires sunlight for photosynthesis. However, exposure to direct sunlight for prolonged periods can result in scorching or dehydration, leading to stunted growth or death.
Temperature Requirements
Platanthera unalascensis var. maritima is well-suited to cold weather conditions. It can tolerate frost and freezing temperatures, and even requires winter chill to break dormancy. The plant prefers daytime temperatures between 50°F to 80°F and nighttime temperatures between 40°F to 60°F during its growing season. However, it is sensitive to high humidity and hot temperatures, and prolonged exposure to temperatures above 85°F can cause damage to the plant.
Soil Requirements
Platanthera unalascensis var. maritima prefers well-draining soil with high organic matter content. The ideal soil pH for growth lies within the range of 5.5 to 6.5. The plant is sensitive to saline soils and is unable to tolerate waterlogging or flooding. It can thrive in a range of soil types, including loam, sand, and clay, as long as they are not too compacted. Adequate soil moisture is also vital for proper growth, and the plant benefits from occasional deep watering sessions.
Cultivation of Platanthera unalascensis var. maritima
Platanthera unalascensis var. maritima, commonly known as the Seaside Rein orchid, is a terrestrial orchid species. It is native to moist, boggy areas, and typically grows in coastal marshes and swales.
These orchids prefer cool to moderate temperatures ranging between 50°F to 70°F in the daytime and 40°F to 60°F at night. They also thrive in bright but indirect sunlight.
Watering Needs
Proper watering is critical to keep Platanthera unalascensis var. maritima healthy. You should water them regularly enough, so the soil remains constantly moist but not waterlogged.
It is also essential to use a well-draining potting mix because stagnant water can cause root rot and eventually kill the plant. If you are keeping them outdoors, they may require watering more frequently in dry conditions.
Fertilization
Platanthera unalascensis var. maritima does not require heavy fertilizer treatment. Feeding them once every month is enough to provide them with necessary nutrients. Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer solution.
It is best to apply the fertilizer when the orchid is actively growing, usually between spring and early summer. However, stop fertilizing in late summer or early fall when the plants prepare to go dormant for winter.
Pruning
Pruning is not necessary for Platanthera unalascensis var. maritima. However, it is always good to remove dead or yellowing leaves so that the orchid can focus on growing healthy parts instead.
Additionally, these orchids often form clumps and can benefit from division every two to three years. Dividing the plant will give it more space to grow and reduce the chances of overcrowding and disease.
Propagation of Platanthera unalascensis var. maritima
Platanthera unalascensis var. maritima, commonly known as the Alaskan coastal rein orchid, is a terrestrial orchid native to Alaska and British Columbia. It can be propagated by several methods, including seed propagation, division, and tissue culture.
Seed Propagation
Seed propagation is the most common method for propagating Platanthera unalascensis var. maritima. The seeds should be sown after the soil has thawed in the spring. The seeds need to be sown in a well-draining soil mix and kept moist during the germination process. The germination period can take anywhere from several weeks to several months. Once the seedlings have developed, they can be transplanted into individual pots and grown until they are large enough to be planted in the ground.
Division
Division is another method for propagating Platanthera unalascensis var. maritima. This can be done during the early spring when the plant is still in its dormant stage. The plant should be carefully dug up and the rhizomes divided by cutting them into sections. Each section should have at least one healthy shoot and root system. The sections can then be planted in individual pots or directly in the ground.
Tissue Culture
Tissue culture is a more advanced method for propagating Platanthera unalascensis var. maritima. This method involves taking a small sample of plant tissue, such as a piece of leaf or stem, and growing it in a sterile environment. The tissue is grown in a nutrient-rich media that contains plant hormones and other growth-promoting substances. Once the tissue has developed into plantlets, they can be transferred into individual pots and grown until they are large enough to be planted in the ground.
Disease Management
Platanthera unalascensis var. maritima can be affected by various diseases that can cause serious threats to the plant's growth and survival. Some of the common diseases that can affect the plant are:
- Pythium Root Rot: This disease is caused by Pythium spp. and results in the plant wilted leaves, root discoloration, and root decay. To manage this disease, use pathogen-free media and maintain proper drainage. Avoid overhead watering and avoid overcrowding of plants.
- Bacterial Soft Rot: Bacterial Soft Rot is caused by the bacteria Erwinia carotovora and Pseudomonas marginalis. The symptoms include water-soaked lesions, wilted leaves, and soft, mushy areas on the stem. To manage this disease maintain a clean environment, avoid overcrowding of plants, and disinfect tools before use.
- Fungal Leaf Spots: Fungal Leaf Spots are caused by different fungi such as Alternaria, Cercospora, and Septoria. The symptoms include spots on leaves, which are dry and brown in color. To manage this disease remove infected plants and maintain proper sanitation practices. Use a fungicide if necessary.
Pest Management
Platanthera unalascensis var. maritima can also be affected by various pests that can damage the plant and reduce its growth and productivity. Some of the common pests that can affect the plant are:
- Anthracnose: Anthracnose is caused by the fungus Colletotrichum. The symptoms include black, sunken lesions on leaves and stems. To manage this pest, remove the infected plant parts and avoid frequent wetting of leaves, which favors fungal development.
- Aphids: Aphids are small insects that suck sap from the plant's leaves, causing stunted growth and leaf yellowing. To manage this pest, use insecticidal soap or neem oil, introduce natural predators like ladybugs, or use physical measures like a strong spray of water to knock off the aphids.
- Spider Mites: Spider mites are tiny, sap-sucking pests that cause a stippled or yellowing appearance on the leaves. To manage this pest, use insecticidal soap or neem oil or introduce natural predators like predatory mites or ladybugs. Avoid overcrowding and maintain an appropriate level of humidity.
