Description of Polystachya dendrobiiflora
Polystachya dendrobiiflora, also known as the "Many-Spiked Polystachya", is a species of orchid that belongs to the Polystachya genus. It is native to the tropical regions of Africa, including Kenya, Tanzania, and Malawi.
Common Names
The plant is commonly known as Many-Spiked Polystachya or East African Polystachya.
Appearance
Polystachya dendrobiiflora usually grows up to 5 cm in size, and it has pseudobulbs that facilitate the storage of water and nutrients. The plant produces long and narrow leaves that are usually green in color. The flower spikes of the Polystachya dendrobiiflora are numerous and can grow up to 30 cm in length.
The flowers themselves are small and usually grow in clusters of 5-20 blooms in shades of yellow, green, and brown. They have a sweet fragrance that can attract a wide variety of insects.
Uses
Polystachya dendrobiiflora is mainly used as an ornamental plant due to its striking beauty. It is cultivated by gardeners and orchid enthusiasts around the world as a houseplant or in botanical gardens.
In traditional African medicine, various parts of the Polystachya dendrobiiflora plant are used as a remedy for treating various ailments, such as diarrhea, vomiting, and coughs.
Additionally, the plant is also used in perfumery and cosmetics due to its scent.
Light Requirements
Polystachya dendrobiiflora prefers bright, indirect light. It's ideal to place this plant within or close to a window that faces east or west that allows filtered light into the room. Direct sunlight can harm the leaves and cause them to dry out or burn.
Temperature Requirements
This plant prefers a warm and humid environment. The ideal temperature range for Polystachya dendrobiiflora is between 60°F and 80°F (15°C-27°C). The temperature should not drop below 55°F (13°C) as it can lead to damage or death of the plant.
Soil Requirements
Polystachya dendrobiiflora is an epiphytic orchid and does not require potting soil to grow. Instead, it grows on tree bark, wood, or moss in its natural habitat. To mimic its natural growing environment, it's best to mount this plant onto a piece of wood or bark with sphagnum moss or coconut coir as a substrate. It's important to ensure the mount is porous to allow the plant's roots to breathe.
Cultivation Methods
Polystachya dendrobiiflora auct. is commonly known as the Willow Orchid. It is an epiphytic orchid which means that it grows above the ground, usually on trees or other plants. It prefers a humid and warm environment with temperatures ranging from 60-85°F (16-29°C).
To cultivate this plant, it is important to replicate its natural habitat. Use a well-draining orchid potting mix that consists of perlite, bark, and sphagnum moss. The potting container should have good air circulation, and drainage holes at the bottom to allow excess water to drain properly.
Place the Willow Orchid in a bright location with indirect sunlight. Avoid direct sunlight as it may harm the plant. If you are growing indoors, you may need to supplement light with fluorescent lamps to ensure the plant gets enough light for optimum growth.
Watering Needs
Polystachya dendrobiiflora auct. requires regular watering but avoid over-watering as it may result in root rot. Water the plant regularly, once a week or when the potting mix feels dry to touch. Ensure the potting mix is moist but not waterlogged. Use a well-draining potting mix to prevent waterlogging and ensure sufficient air circulation.
Fertilization
The Willow Orchid requires regular fertilizing during the growing season. Use a balanced fertilizer diluted to half strength, once every 2-3 weeks. During the dormant season, withhold fertilizers as the plant does not require much nutrition.
It's important to use fertilizers designed specifically for orchids as their nutrient requirements are different than other plants. Avoid over-fertilizing as it could lead to damage of the roots and leaves of the plant.
Pruning
Pruning is an important aspect of maintaining the health of Polystachya dendrobiiflora auct. Always prune dead or diseased leaves as they may provide a fertile ground for pests and diseases.
Remove any spent flowers to encourage the plant to produce new blooms. Once the flowering season is over, prune back the stem to promote new growth. Ensure that pruning tools are clean and sterilized before use to avoid transmitting diseases from one plant to another.
Propagation of Polystachya dendrobiiflora
Polystachya dendrobiiflora auct. can be propagated by several methods. Here are some of the commonly used methods:
Division
Division is the most common method for propagating Polystachya dendrobiiflora. The plants are divided into smaller sections with each section having at least one pseudobulb and a few roots. The new divisions can then be planted in a suitable growing medium.
Keiki propagation
Keikis is a Hawaiian term meaning "baby" plant, and this method involves propagating Polystachya dendrobiiflora by using the plantlets that develop along the stem. Keiki propagation is a simple and effective way to propagate this plant. When the keikis have developed enough roots, they can be removed from the parent plant and planted in their potting medium.
Seed propagation
Polystachya dendrobiiflora can also be propagated from seeds. This method requires patience and proper care, as it can take several years for the seedlings to grow into mature plants. The seeds are sown in a suitable growing medium and kept in a warm, humid environment until they germinate. Once the seedlings have developed 2-3 leaves, they can be transplanted into individual pots.
Cuttings propagation
Cuttings propagation is a less common method for propagating Polystachya dendrobiiflora. It involves taking stem cuttings with at least one node and planting them in a suitable growing medium. The cuttings should be kept in a warm, humid environment until they develop roots.
Regardless of the propagation method used, it is important to provide Polystachya dendrobiiflora with proper care to ensure they are healthy and continue to grow.
Disease Management
Polystachya dendrobiiflora auct. is relatively healthy and disease-resistant. However, the plant can still be susceptible to several diseases, including:
- Leaf Spot: This fungal disease manifests as small, dark spots on the leaves. Over time, the spots increase in size and can cause the leaves to wither and fall off. To manage this disease, remove and dispose of infected leaves and avoid overhead watering, which can spread the disease. Fungicides can also be used as a preventive measure.
- Root Rot: This disease is caused by fungi in the soil that attack the plant's roots, leading to decay. To prevent root rot, ensure good drainage by using porous soil and containers with drainage holes. Avoid overwatering the plant, which can create conditions for fungal growth.
- Bacterial Soft Rot: This disease is caused by bacteria and leads to the plant's soft tissue breaking down and turning slimy. The affected tissue usually emits a foul odor. To manage this disease, remove and dispose of infected plant parts, and avoid overwatering the plant.
Pest Management
Polystachya dendrobiiflora auct. is also relatively resistant to pests, but infestations can still occur. Some common pests that can affect the plant include:
- Mites: Spider mites are common pests that can damage the plant by sucking sap from the leaves, causing yellowing and stippling. To manage mites, increase the plant's humidity, which can deter their growth, or use insecticidal soap to control the infestation.
- Mealybugs: These pests are small, soft-bodied insects that attach to the plant and feed on its sap. They secrete a sticky substance that attracts ants and can lead to the growth of sooty mold. To manage mealybugs, remove them manually with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol or use an insecticidal soap.
- Scale insects: These pests are small, hard-shelled insects that attach themselves to the plant and feed on its sap. They produce a waxy covering that protects them from predators and insecticides. To manage scale insects, use a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol to remove them manually or use an insecticidal soap.
