Platycoryne crocea subsp. ochrantha: A Unique Orchid
The Platycoryne crocea subsp. ochrantha, also known as the Yellow Platycoryne, is a species of the Orchid family (Orchidaceae) that is native to the tropical regions of Africa, including Tanzania, Kenya, and Uganda. The plant's scientific name, Platycoryne crocea subsp. ochrantha, was given by Robert Rolfe, a British botanist, in 1896.
Appearance
The Yellow Platycoryne is a small, terrestrial and tuberous orchid that can grow up to 15-20 cm in height. It has an erect, slender stem with 3-5 leaves that are elliptic or lanceolate, and have distinct reticulate venation. The leaves are around 5-8 cm long and 1-2 cm wide. The inflorescence of this orchid is a raceme that bears 3–5 flowers at once. The flowers are small, with a diameter of around 1 cm. They are a vibrant shade of yellow with a white lip that has a reddish purple blotch in the center.
Common Names
The Yellow Platycoryne has various common names, depending on the region. In Kenya, it is commonly known as "kendelela" among the Taita people, while in Tanzania, it is known as "papa" by the Zanaki people. The Swahili name for it is "Kasanga kifupi."
Uses
The Yellow Platycoryne is mainly an ornamental plant that is grown for its attractive yellow flowers. Its tubers have also been used in traditional medicine by African communities as a natural remedy for various ailments, including gastroenteritis and malaria. The plant contains alkaloids, saponins, and flavonoids, which are known for their anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and antimalarial properties.
The Yellow Platycoryne is a fascinating and unique orchid that is admired for its colorful flowers and medicinal benefits. Its tubers contain natural compounds that have been known to improve human health, providing an interesting aspect to this beautiful plant.
Light Requirements
Platycoryne crocea subsp. ochrantha requires bright but filtered light for optimal growth. Direct sunlight can damage the leaves and hinder growth. They can thrive under artificial light, but it should be supplemented with natural light. Around 50-70% of sunlight or artificial light is preferable for this plant sub-species.
Temperature requirements
Platycoryne crocea subsp. ochrantha is accustomed to growing in tropical regions, where temperatures range from 20°C to 30°C. This plant sub-species requires a similar temperature range to thrive. They cannot withstand extremely high or low temperatures and grow optimally at a temperature between 23°C to 26°C. Keeping the temperature within this range will promote growth and maintain healthy blooms.
Soil requirements
Platycoryne crocea subsp. ochrantha requires well-draining soil with a pH range between 5 and 6.5. The soil should be airy and loose, allowing water to pass through it easily. The recommended potting mix is a combination of sphagnum moss, perlite, and bark. It is important to water the plant once the soil becomes slightly dry, but it should not be watered too frequently as it can lead to root rot.
Cultivation Methods
Platycoryne crocea (Schweinf. ex Rchb.f.) Rolfe subspecies ochrantha (Schltr.) Summerh., commonly known as the Yellow Platycoryne, is an epiphyte found in tropical Africa. It can be grown in a variety of ways, including mounted on slabs of wood or bark, in hanging baskets, or potted in a well-draining mix of bark, sphagnum moss, and perlite.Watering Needs
The Yellow Platycoryne prefers to be kept slightly moist but not soaking wet. Watering once a week during the growing season and less frequently during the dormant period is adequate. Overwatering can lead to root rot and ultimately death. Misting the aerial roots is beneficial, particularly in drier environments.Fertilization
Fertilization is beneficial to the growth and overall health of the Yellow Platycoryne. A balanced fertilizer, such as 20-20-20, can be used at half-strength every 4-6 weeks during the growing season. It is crucial to flush the potting mix with clean water after each application to prevent salt build-up.Pruning
Yellow Platycoryne rarely requires pruning and should be left as undisturbed as possible. Dead or yellowed leaves can be removed with sterile scissors or pruners to promote new growth. Cutting off flowers after blooming is an optional pruning technique that can encourage the plant to focus its energy on developing new growth.Propagation of Platycoryne crocea subsp. ochrantha
Platycoryne crocea subsp. ochrantha is a beautiful orchid that is easy to propagate. There are two main methods of propagation: division and seed propagation.
Division
Division is the easiest and fastest way to propagate Platycoryne crocea subsp. ochrantha. This method should be done when the plant becomes too big or the growth slows down. To divide the plant, remove it from the pot and carefully separate the pseudobulbs, making sure each division has at least one healthy pseudobulb. After dividing the plant, plant each individual division in its pot and water it.
Seed Propagation
Seed propagation is another method of propagating Platycoryne crocea subsp. ochrantha. This method requires more patience and time. After the plant blooms, it produces seed pods that can be harvested when the pods turn brown and begin to split. Sow the seeds in a suitable planting medium and keep moist, but not wet. After around two to three weeks, the seeds should start to germinate. When they are big enough to handle, transfer them into individual pots and continue caring for them until they are mature enough to plant in the ground.
Disease management
Platycoryne crocea subsp. ochrantha is not known to be highly susceptible to diseases. However, it is important to watch out for the following diseases:
- Anthracnose: This fungal disease causes brown spots on the leaves and stems, as well as distorted growth. It can be managed by removing infected plant parts immediately, increasing air circulation, and applying a fungicide.
- Botrytis blight: This fungal disease results in gray mold on the flowers, buds, and stems. Good air circulation and avoiding overhead watering can prevent this disease. Fungicides may also be used if necessary.
- Leaf spot: Caused by a variety of fungi, leaf spot results in circular brown or black spots on the leaves. Infected leaves should be removed and destroyed, and a fungicide can be applied to manage the disease.
Pest management
While Platycoryne crocea subsp. ochrantha is generally not highly susceptible to pests, it may still be affected by the following pests:
- Spider mites: These tiny pests can cause yellowing of the leaves and the appearance of fine webbing. They can be managed by increasing humidity and using insecticidal soap or horticultural oils.
- Aphids: These sap-sucking insects can cause curling of leaves and stunted growth. They can be managed by using insecticidal soap or horticultural oils, or by introducing natural predators such as ladybugs.
- Thrips: These small, slender insects cause discoloration, distortion, and even premature death of flowers. They can be managed by introducing natural predators such as predatory mites, or by using insecticidal soap or horticultural oils.
