Overview
Polystachya affinis Lindl. var. nana J.B.Hall is a unique species of orchid found in tropical Africa. It is a tiny, epiphytic orchid that is known for its unusual appearance and beautiful flowers.
Common Names
Polystachya affinis Lindl. var. nana J.B.Hall is commonly known as the Dwarf Polystachya orchid in English, and it is also known by several local names, depending on the country and region. In Kenya, it is known as Ririi, while in Tanzania, it is called Msumari.
Origin
The Dwarf Polystachya orchid is native to tropical Africa, where it is found in countries such as Tanzania, Kenya, Uganda, and Rwanda. It grows in rainforests, often on the trunks and branches of trees and other plants.
Appearance
Polystachya affinis Lindl. var. nana J.B.Hall is a small, epiphytic orchid that grows up to 10 cm tall. Its growth habit is sympodial, and it has pseudobulbs that are around 1-2 cm long. The pseudobulbs are covered in white, papery sheaths and bear a single, narrow, elliptical, or linear leaf that is up to 6 cm long. The plant produces very small flowers that are around 0.5 cm wide, and they are arranged in clusters of up to five flowers at the end of short, slender stems. The flowers are greenish-yellow, and they have a sweet fragrance.
Uses
Polystachya affinis Lindl. var. nana J.B.Hall is an ornamental plant that is highly prized for its delicate beauty. It is grown in gardens, greenhouses, and as a houseplant. The plant is also used in traditional medicine in some African communities, where it is believed to have healing properties for various ailments. However, further research is needed to confirm its medicinal properties.
Light Requirements
Polystachya affinis Lindl. var. nana J.B.Hall grows well in bright, indirect light. It can also tolerate some direct sunlight in the morning or late afternoon. However, the plant should be protected from intense midday sunlight as it can damage the leaves.
Temperature Requirements
The ideal temperature range for Polystachya affinis Lindl. var. nana J.B.Hall is between 18°C to 26°C. The plant can tolerate slightly cooler temperatures, but it cannot survive in freezing conditions. It is important to keep the plant away from cold drafts or sudden temperature changes.
Soil Requirements
Polystachya affinis Lindl. var. nana J.B.Hall grows best in a well-draining substrate that is predominantly organic matter. It is recommended to use a commercial orchid mix or a mixture of bark, sphagnum moss and perlite in equal proportions. The soil should be kept slightly damp but not waterlogged, as the plant is susceptible to root rot.
Cultivation Methods
Polystachya affinis Lindl. var. nana J.B.Hall, commonly known as the Miniature Polystachya, is a small orchid species that is native to West Africa. The plant can either be grown on soil or mounted on a cork or driftwood slab. The ideal location to grow this plant should be bright, but indirect sunlight, and the temperature should be kept between 60°F to 80°F.
Watering Needs
Miniature Polystachya requires frequent watering, and the roots should not be allowed to dry out completely. Water the plant when the soil or potting material starts drying out. During the summer season, water the plant once a week, and during the winter period, water once in two weeks.
Fertilization
Fertilize Miniature Polystachya orchid once a month, preferably during spring and summer, using a balanced water-soluble quick-release fertilizer. You can also decide to use a slow-release fertilizer, apply it twice a year, during the start of the growing season and the middle of the season.
Pruning
Pruning Miniature Polystachya is not necessary. However, you can trim off any dead flowers or leaves to prevent the spread of infections. You can also decide to remove old stems that are no longer producing any flowers to encourage new growth and blooms.
Propagation of Polystachya affinis Lindl. var. nana J.B.Hall
Polystachya affinis Lindl. var. nana J.B.Hall is propagated through division or seed methods. It is an epiphytic orchid that can be grown in a pot as well as mounted on a bark slab or tree fern.
Division Propagation
Division method is preferred for this orchid species because it grows in clumps or groups. The best time to divide the plant is during repotting, which is typically done during spring. When dividing, carefully separate the clumps and make sure each division has a few healthy leaves attached to the stem. Each division must have about 4-6 pseudobulbs to ensure its survival. Place each division into a separate pot with well-draining orchid mix. Water and fertilize regularly to promote growth.
Seed Propagation
Seed propagation can also be used to propagate Polystachya affinis Lindl. var. nana J.B.Hall. However, it is a slow process and requires more expertise and resources. Collect the matured seed pods when they turn yellow-brown and crack open naturally. Sow the seeds in flasks or small pots that are sterilized to prevent contamination. For flask culture, use a nutrient-rich agar solution to promote germination. Provide sufficient light and temperature control for optimal growth. After 6-8 months, the seedlings can be transplanted into individual pots. It may take several years before the seedlings mature and bloom.
Disease and Pest Management for Polystachya affinis Lindl. var. nana J.B.Hall
Polystachya affinis Lindl. var. nana J.B.Hall is a resilient and hardy plant that can still be affected by pests and diseases. Here are some common diseases and pests that might affect the plant and ways to manage them:
Diseases
Bacterial Spot: Bacterial Spot is a common disease that affects many orchids. Symptoms include small black spots, blighting, and wilting of leaves. The best way to manage this disease is to remove all affected areas and sterilize tools in between cuts. Avoid overhead watering and reduce humidity to prevent the disease from spreading.
Black Rot: Black Rot is a fungal disease that causes black spots on leaves, a foul odor, and mushy plant tissue. To prevent the spread of this disease, remove and destroy any infected plant parts and improve air circulation. Avoid overwatering and remove any standing water in the plant's environment.
Grey Mold: Grey mold is a fungal disease that can be identified by grey-green mold on leaves. To manage this disease, prune off any affected parts, improve air circulation and reduce humidity.
Pests
Scale Insects: Scale insects are tiny insects that can be recognized by small bumps on the plant's surface. To manage these pests, prune off affected areas and apply insecticidal soap to the plant.
Thrips: Thrips can cause damage to the plant by munching on the buds and flowers. They are tiny and difficult to see. To manage these pests, apply insecticidal soap, and maintain good air circulation to keep moisture levels low.
Spider Mites: Spider mites are small and often go unnoticed until they have caused significant damage. To manage these pests, spray the plant with water to remove any visible mites and apply insecticidal soap to the plant.
By taking preventive measures and acting quickly, you can keep your Polystachya affinis Lindl. var. nana J.B.Hall healthy and pest-free.
