Overview of Polystachya bertauxiana Szlach. & Olszewski
Polystachya bertauxiana Szlach. & Olszewski, also known as Bertaux's Polystachya, is a species of flowering plants in the orchid family. This orchid species is native to Madagascar and can be found in the northeastern part of the island.
Common Names
Bertaux's Polystachya is commonly known by the following names:
- Polystachya de Bertaux (in French)
- Sabotsy (in Malagasy)
Appearance
The plant grows up to a height of 20 cm and has a sympodial growth habit. Its pseudobulbs are conical with narrow tips and measure about 2.5 cm in height and 1.5 cm in diameter. The leaves are leathery and linear, and they grow up to 12 cm in length and 1 cm in width.
The inflorescence arises from the base of the pseudobulb and bears up to 15 small-sized flowers. The flowers are about 1.5 cm wide and are pale yellowish-green, with a striking purple and pink lip that has a trilobed shape. The flowers are fragrant, with a sweet and musky smell.
Uses
Polystachya bertauxiana Szlach. & Olszewski is a beautiful orchid that is grown as an ornamental plant. It is also used in traditional medicine in Madagascar, where a decoction of the plant is used to treat various ailments like stomach pain, fever, and rheumatism.
Light Requirements
Polystachya bertauxiana Szlach. & Olszewski requires bright but indirect light. Too much direct sunlight can cause the leaves to burn and damage the plant. The best location for the plant is near a window that receives filtered light or under artificial light that simulates natural light.
Temperature Requirements
The plant grows well in temperatures ranging from 60-85 degrees Fahrenheit. Consistent temperature is essential for the plant's growth. Drastic fluctuations in temperature can lead to the plant's stress and slow down its growth.
Soil and Water Requirements
Polystachya bertauxiana Szlach. & Olszewski grows best in well-draining orchid soil that evenly distributes moisture and air. The orchid soil can be a mix of sphagnum moss, fir bark, and perlite. The plant should be watered once a week, allowing the soil to dry slightly between watering. Overwatering can lead to root rot and kill the plant.
Fertilizer Requirements
The plant should be fertilized at least once a month during the growing season, which is usually in spring and summer. A balanced orchid fertilizer that contains equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium is recommended. The fertilizer should be diluted to half the recommended strength and mixed with the plant's water. Over-fertilization can lead to fertilizer burn and hinder the plant's growth.
Humidity Requirements
Polystachya bertauxiana Szlach. & Olszewski grows best in a humid climate that mimics its natural habitat. The plant requires a humidity level of at least 50%, which can be achieved by misting the plant daily or setting the plant on a tray of water. A humidifier can also help maintain the desired humidity level.
Cultivation Methods
Polystachya bertauxiana Szlach. & Olszewski is an epiphytic orchid that is found growing in the wild on trees and rocks in tropical and subtropical regions. It can be cultivated by mimicking its natural growing conditions. The plants can be grown in pots or mounted on a piece of bark or wood.
The ideal temperature for this species ranges from 18 to 27 °C. It requires a humid environment with a relative humidity level of around 75% to 85%. They grow well in bright light but need protection from direct sunlight. It is recommended to place the plants in a shaded area with sufficient ventilation.
Watering Needs
Polystachya bertauxiana Szlach. & Olszewski should be watered regularly, especially during the growing and blooming period. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so it's essential to allow the potting medium or the mount to dry out slightly between watering. When the plant is mounted, it should be soaked in water for a few minutes for the roots to absorb moisture. During the winter months, watering should be reduced to prevent the plant from getting too wet, which can encourage diseases.
Fertilization
Polystachya bertauxiana Szlach. & Olszewski requires regular fertilization to promote healthy growth and blooming. A balanced, water-soluble fertilizer with an NPK ratio of 20-20-20 should be used every two weeks during the growing period. During the dormant season, the fertilization should be reduced to once every month or completely stopped.
Pruning
Polystachya bertauxiana Szlach. & Olszewski does not require frequent pruning. It is recommended to cut off the dead flower spikes to encourage the plant to focus on new growth and bloom. When repotting the plant, any dead or damaged roots should be trimmed off. If the plant is mounted, any dead or yellowing leaves can be removed to promote healthy growth.
Propagation of Polystachya bertauxiana Szlach. & Olszewski
Polystachya bertauxiana Szlach. & Olszewski is a small epiphytic orchid species that is native to Madagascar. The plant has beautiful, yellow flowers and can be grown both indoors and outdoors. Propagating Polystachya bertauxiana can be done through various methods.
Propagation by Division
The most common method of propagating Polystachya bertauxiana is through division. It is best to divide the parent plant during spring or fall when new growth appears. First, remove the plant from its pot and gently separate the plant into sections. Each section must have several healthy roots and at least one growth point or shoot. Place the divided sections into their own pots with well-draining soil mix and water them thoroughly. Keep the newly propagated plants in a shaded area for several weeks to allow them to establish themselves.
Propagation by Keiki
Keiki is a Hawaiian term that means "child" or "baby." In the orchid world, keiki refers to the tiny plantlets that grow from the mother plant's stem or flower spike. Polystachya bertauxiana is known to form keikis, which can be propagated and grown into new plants. When the keiki has developed roots that are at least an inch long, carefully remove it from the mother plant and plant it in its container using a well-draining soil mix.
Propagation by Seed
Propagation by seed is another method of propagating Polystachya bertauxiana, but it is a challenging process. It requires a sterile environment, specific temperature, and humidity control. After collecting mature seed pods, they need to be matured and stored properly before sowing. Once sowing is done, the seeds require proper maintenance, such as regular watering, and exposure to bright light to germinate. It can take up to a year for the seed to grow into a plant with leaves.
In conclusion, propagation of Polystachya bertauxiana Szlach. & Olszewski can be done through division, keiki, and seed. Although propagation by division or keiki is the most practical method, propagating by seed is more challenging and requires a more sterile environment and specific temperature and humidity control. For growers who are up to the challenge, propagation by seed can be satisfying.
Disease Management
Polystachya bertauxiana Szlach. & Olszewski is susceptible to various diseases. The most common diseases that affect this plant include bacterial and fungal infections. Bacterial infections can cause leaf spots and rots, while fungal infections can cause wilting, yellowing, and browning of the leaves. One way to manage these diseases is to ensure that the plant is grown in well-drained soil and to avoid overwatering. Additionally, the use of copper-based fungicides can help to control bacterial and fungal infections.
Pest Management
There are several pests that may attack Polystachya bertauxiana Szlach. & Olszewski. These include mealybugs, spider mites, thrips, and scale insects. These pests can cause damage to the leaves, flowers, and stems of the plant. To manage these pests, it is important to regularly inspect the plant for signs of infestation. If pests are detected, they can be eliminated through the use of insecticidal soaps or neem oil. Additionally, introducing natural predators such as ladybugs can also help to control pest populations.
