Description of Polystachya dolichophylla Schltr.
Polystachya dolichophylla Schltr. is an epiphytic plant species belonging to the Orchidaceae family. It is a rare and exotic orchid that is known for its unique and beautiful appearance.
Origin
Polystachya dolichophylla Schltr. is found in several countries of East Africa such as Tanzania, Kenya, and Uganda. It is commonly found in mountainous forests and is usually grown as an ornamental plant.
Common Names
This plant is commonly known as the Long-Leaved Polystachya or the Long-Leaved Orchid.
General Appearance
Polystachya dolichophylla Schltr. is an epiphytic plant that grows up to a height of about 60 cm. It has long and narrow leaves that are deep green in color and grow up to a length of 20 cm. The leaves are stiff and closely arranged like a fan.
The flowers of Polystachya dolichophylla Schltr. are small and appear in clusters on spikes that grow up to 40 cm in length. The flowers are greenish-yellow in color and have a small lip with a fringed margin.
Uses
Polystachya dolichophylla Schltr. is mainly grown as an ornamental plant due to its unique appearance. It can be grown in pots or baskets, or be mounted on tree trunks or branches. The plant requires high humidity and bright but indirect light, making it well-suited for indoor cultivation.
In East Africa, the plant has been traditionally used for medicinal purposes, specifically for the treatment of fever and other ailments. The plant has also been used in cosmetic formulations due to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
Overall, Polystachya dolichophylla Schltr. is a beautiful and exotic plant that is well-suited for both ornamental and medicinal purposes.Light Requirements
The plant Polystachya dolichophylla Schltr. thrives best in a bright and well-lit environment. It requires ample amount of sunlight, but direct exposure to strong sunlight should be avoided as it may cause damage to the fragile leaves. In its natural habitat, it usually grows under the shade of taller trees, and hence, partial sunlight exposure works best.
Temperature Requirements
Polystachya dolichophylla Schltr. is a tropical plant and prefers a warm and humid climate. It grows well in temperatures ranging between 20°C to 28°C (68°F-82°F). It cannot tolerate the cold weather and temperatures below 15°C (59°F) may harm the plant. It is advisable to keep the plant away from cold drafts and air conditioners.
Soil Requirements
Polystachya dolichophylla Schltr. requires a well-draining growing medium as it does not like sitting in water that can cause root rot. The soil should be a blend of quality potting mix and orchid bark or perlite that allows adequate air circulation and drainage. The plant does not require a highly fertile soil but it does require periodic fertilization with orchid-specific fertilizers.
Cultivation Methods for Polystachya dolichophylla Schltr.
Polystachya dolichophylla Schltr. is a miniature orchid native to Madagascar. This epiphytic plant requires a warm, humid, and shaded environment with good air circulation. The following are some cultivation methods:
- Use a mix of bark, sphagnum moss, and perlite as the growing medium.
- Mount the plant on a piece of wood, cork, or tree fern fiber, or grow it in a small pot or basket.
- Provide bright, filtered light, such as under a tree canopy or near a window with sheer curtains.
- Maintain a temperature range of 60-80°F with a minimum of 50°F at night.
Watering needs of Polystachya dolichophylla Schltr.
Like most orchids, Polystachya dolichophylla Schltr. requires consistent watering with adequate drainage to prevent root rot. Adjust the watering frequency depending on the temperature, humidity, and sunlight in your environment. Here are some tips:
- Water the plant once a week during the growing season and reduce the frequency in winter or during dormancy.
- Use rainwater, distilled water, or reverse osmosis water to prevent mineral buildup.
- Soak the plant for 10-15 minutes or until the roots turn white, then let it drain completely.
- Avoid wetting the leaves and avoid letting water sit in the crown of the plant, as it can induce fungal or bacterial infections.
Fertilization of Polystachya dolichophylla Schltr.
Polystachya dolichophylla Schltr. requires a balanced fertilizer with a low concentration of nitrogen and high potassium and phosphorus. Apply the fertilizer following these recommendations:
- Use a balanced orchid fertilizer, such as 20-20-20 or 10-10-10, at half strength during the growing season and only once a month in winter.
- Apply the fertilizer after watering to avoid burning the roots.
- Avoid getting the fertilizer on the leaves or crown of the plant, as it can cause damage.
- Flush the pot with clear water every few months to remove excess salts and prevent buildup.
Pruning of Polystachya dolichophylla Schltr.
Pruning Polystachya dolichophylla Schltr. is minimal, but some maintenance is required to keep the plant healthy and blooming. Here are some tips:
- Remove dead or yellowed leaves with sterilized scissors or a knife, especially if they are blocking light or air circulation.
- Trim spent flower spikes at the base to encourage new growth.
- Avoid cutting healthy leaves or roots, as they are essential for photosynthesis and water absorption, respectively.
- Repot the plant every 2-3 years or when it outgrows its container or growing medium.
Propagation of Polystachya dolichophylla Schltr.
Polystachya dolichophylla Schltr. can be propagated through two main methods: division and seeding.
Division
Division is the most common method of propagation for Polystachya dolichophylla Schltr. and is best done during the plant's active growth period, which is typically during the spring or summer months.
To start the division process, carefully remove the plant from its pot and gently separate the plant into smaller clumps. Be sure to keep some root structure with each clump, and avoid damaging the roots as much as possible. Once the clumps have been separated, they can be potted in fresh soil and watered regularly until established.
Seeding
Seeding is another method of propagation that can be used for Polystachya dolichophylla Schltr. To start, collect the seeds from the plant and sow them in a well-draining potting mix. Keep the planting medium moist, but not overly wet, and place the pot in a warm, partially shaded location. The seeds generally take several weeks to germinate, and once they do, they can be potted in individual containers and cared for like mature plants.
Disease and Pest Management for Polystachya dolichophylla Schltr.
Polystachya dolichophylla Schltr. is a beautiful orchid with delicate flowers, native to Africa and Madagascar. Like any other plant, it is susceptible to certain diseases and pests, including the following:
Diseases
One of the most common diseases that affect Polystachya dolichophylla is root rot. This disease is caused by overwatering or poor drainage, resulting in the roots becoming waterlogged, leading to the roots' decay. To manage this disease, always ensure that your plant is grown in well-draining soil, and avoid overwatering. Infected plants should be removed from healthy ones to prevent the spread of the disease.
Fungal infections can also affect Polystachya dolichophylla, causing leaf spots and turning the plant's leaves yellow or brown. To prevent this, it is necessary to practice good hygiene. When watering, avoid getting water on the foliage and ensure good air circulation around the plant. Infected parts of the plants should be removed and destroyed, and fungicides can be used to control the spread of the disease.
Pests
One of the most common pests for Polystachya dolichophylla is spider mites. These pests are tiny, suck the sap of the leaves, and leave flecking that leads to the leaves turning yellow and dropping. To manage spider mites, one can spray the plant with insecticidal soap or horticultural oil, which kills the mites by suffocating them.
Mealybugs are another pest that attack Polystachya dolichophylla. They are tiny, white, and woolly and often hide in tight spaces, such as where the leaves attach to the stem. Mealybugs suck sap from the plant causing stunted growth and deformed foliage. To manage mealybugs, one can spray the plant with neem oil, rubbing alcohol, or insecticidal soap. If the infestation is severe, it is best to remove the infected plant part or the entire plant.
Thrips are also common pests for Polystachya dolichophylla. These insects are tiny and feed on the plant's leaves leading to stippling and distorted growth. To manage thrips, one can use yellow sticky traps to trap the insects or spray the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
By practicing good growing conditions and always monitoring your plant, Polystachya dolichophylla can stay healthy and beautiful, free from pests and diseases.
