Overview of Polystachya cerea Lindl.
Polystachya cerea Lindl. is an epiphytic orchid that belongs to the family Orchidaceae. This plant is commonly known as the Wax Flower or the Candle Orchid due to the appearance of its flowers. The plant is native to tropical East Africa and can be found in countries such as Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda.
Appearance of Polystachya cerea Lindl.
The Wax Flower has a sympodial growth habit, which means that it has a branching growth pattern. The plant can grow up to 60cm in length and has narrow, elongated leaves that are green in color. The flowers of the plant are small (about 2cm in diameter) and grow in clusters on a long stem. The flowers are pale green to yellow in color and have a waxy texture, which is where the plant gets its common name from.
Uses of Polystachya cerea Lindl.
The Wax Flower is mainly grown for ornamental purposes due to the beauty of its flowers. The plant is widely cultivated in greenhouses and tropical gardens around the world. In Africa, the plant is also used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments such as coughs and diarrhea. Additionally, the plant is used in the production of essential oils that are used in cosmetics and perfumes.
Light Requirements
Polystachya cerea Lindl. is an orchid species that thrives in bright indoor environments, shaded from direct sunlight. The plant requires sufficient light that can filter through a window or from an artificial source. It can tolerate low light, but this can impede its growth rate and flowering ability.
Temperature Requirements
The preferred temperature range for Polystachya cerea Lindl. is between 20 to 29°C. The plant is susceptible to damage from cold temperatures and frost. It is crucial to keep the plant warm and moist and avoid rapid temperature fluctuations.
Soil Requirements
Polystachya cerea Lindl. is an epiphytic orchid that does not require specific soil conditions. It grows naturally on trees, rocks, and in mossy areas. However, it needs well-draining soil that allows air circulation to the roots. An orchid potting mix containing a combination of bark, sphagnum moss, peat, and perlite can provide the desired growth medium for the plant.
Cultivation Methods
Polystachya cerea is an epiphytic orchid species, which means that it grows on trees. In cultivation, it is often mounted on a cork bark, a tree fern slab, or a sturdy branch. The ideal location for this plant is a warm and humid environment with good air circulation, such as a greenhouse or a well-lit bathroom.
Watering Needs
Watering Polystachya cerea should be done regularly, but it should be done with care not to overwater. The plant should never sit in standing water, as it may cause the roots to rot. The best way to water this orchid is to soak it in a bucket of water for a few minutes and allow it to drain well before returning it to its growing location. In general, orchids prefer to dry out slightly between watering.
Fertilization
Orchids require nutrients to grow and flower. Use a balanced orchid fertilizer with a ratio such as 20-20-20 or 30-10-10. Fertilization should be done on a regular basis during active growth periods. In general, it is recommended to dilute the fertilizer to 50% of the recommended strength and apply it once a week.
Pruning
Polystachya cerea generally does not require pruning. However, it is recommended to remove any dead or damaged leaves or roots to prevent the spread of diseases. Removing spent flower spikes can also encourage the plant to produce new ones. Use sterilized pruning shears or scissors to cut foliage or roots.
Propagation of Polystachya Cerea Lindl.
Propagation is the key to ensuring the growth and development of Polystachya cerea Lindl. This orchid species can be propagated using various methods, including:
Division
The simplest propagation technique for Polystachya cerea Lindl. is division. This method entails dividing the plant into twoseparate orchids. The divisions should have a clump of roots attached to allow for the establishment of a new plant. Division should be carried out during the growing season at the start of spring.
Seed propagation
Polystachya cerea Lindl. can be propagated by seeds, which are gathered from the plant's fruit capsules when they begin to dry. After removing the seeds from the capsules, they should be washed in a weak solution of hydrogen peroxide, then spread on a paper towel to dry in a cool, dry place. The seeds are then sown on a prepared medium and placed in a warm area with a relatively high level of humidity and diffuse light. Germination should occur after around four weeks.
Keiki propagation
Another method of propagating Polystachya cerea Lindl. is through keikis, which are clones that grow off the plant's stem. They can be left untouched until they grow long enough to develop their own roots and leaves, before they are separated from the parent plant. Alternatively, keikis can be given a little help by being wrapped in sphagnum moss to stimulate root growth. Keikis can be separated from the parent plant once they have reached around one-third of its size.
Disease and Pest Management of Polystachya Cerea Lindl.
Polystachya cerea Lindl., commonly known as the Candlesnuffer Orchid, is a species of orchids native to Africa. Like other plants, it is prone to pest infestation and diseases that can affect its growth and overall health. Proper disease and pest management practices are crucial in ensuring the health and vitality of this plant species.
Common Pests Affecting Polystachya Cerea Lindl.
Like many other orchids, the Candlesnuffer Orchid is vulnerable to attacks from pests such as mealybugs, spider mites, thrips, slugs, snails, and scale insects. These pests suck the sap from the plant's leaves, resulting in stunted growth, weakened stems, and eventually the death of the plant.
One effective way of preventing pest infestation is by maintaining proper hygiene, repotting the plant when necessary, and regularly inspecting for signs of pest activity. If you notice any pest infestation, isolate the plant from other plants and treat it with a suitable insecticide recommended for orchids. An example of such insecticides is neem oil.
Common Diseases Affecting Polystachya Cerea Lindl.
The Candlesnuffer Orchid is also susceptible to various fungal, bacterial, and viral diseases that can affect its growth and overall health. The common diseases include Fusarium wilt, root rot, leaf spots, and black rot.
Fusarium wilt usually occurs when the soil is poorly drained, and the plant is overwatered, causing the roots to rot. To avoid this, ensure that the plant is grown in well-draining soil and watered appropriately. Root rot commonly occurs due to overwatering or poor drainage, leading to the roots' decay. To manage this, improve the drainage system and reduce watering frequency.
Leaf spots and black rot are caused by fungal infections, and the symptoms include yellowing of leaves, lesion formation, and death of leaves or stems. To manage these, remove the affected parts and sterilize the pruned areas. You can also treat the plant with a fungicide recommended for orchids.
Conclusion
Overall, disease and pest management practices are critical to ensuring the health and vitality of the Polystachya cerea Lindl. orchids. By regularly inspecting for signs of pest activity and diseases, maintaining proper hygiene, using appropriate pesticides and fungicides, and providing the plant's optimal growing conditions, you can effectively manage the pests and diseases and promote the growth and health of your Candlesnuffer Orchids.
