Polystachya fanora Schltr.
Polystachya fanora Schltr. is an epiphytic orchid species that belongs to the family Orchidaceae. It was first described by Rudolf Schlechter in 1918. The plant is native to the tropical and subtropical regions of Madagascar, Africa.
Common Names
The common names for Polystachya fanora Schltr. include Fanora's Polystachya Orchid and Madagascar Polystachya. The plant is also known as Fanora's Parrot's Beak due to the shape of its flowers.
Uses
Polystachya fanora Schltr. is mainly grown as an ornamental plant due to its attractive and fragrant flowers. The plant is commonly cultivated by orchid enthusiasts and can be found in many botanical gardens around the world. It is also used in traditional medicine by the indigenous people of Madagascar to treat various ailments.
General Appearance
Polystachya fanora Schltr. has a distinct appearance that makes it easily recognizable. The plant has long, slender, and cylindrical pseudobulbs that are covered in dry sheaths. The pseudobulbs produce a single leaf, which is strap-like, leathery, and forms a fan-shaped rosette. The flowers of the plant are small, intricately-shaped, and golden-yellow in color.
The flowers bloom on long, slender stems that emerge from the base of the pseudobulbs. The inflorescence is a raceme that can grow up to 60 centimeters in length and bears numerous flowers at a time. The sepals and petals of the flowers are narrow and elongated, while the lip is broad and fan-shaped, resembling a parrot's beak. The flowers of Polystachya fanora Schltr. emit a sweet fragrance that is particularly strong in the evenings and at night.
Light requirements
Polystachya fanora Schltr. plant thrives well in bright, indirect light. Avoid exposing the plant to direct sunlight, as it can cause scorch marks on the leaves. The orchid needs a minimum of six hours of light per day, which can be supplemented by artificial light if necessary.
Temperature requirements
Polystachya fanora Schltr. is a tropical orchid and requires warm temperatures to thrive. The ideal temperature range for this plant is between 60 to 80 °F (15 to 27 °C). During the daytime, the preferred temperature range is between 70 to 80 °F (21 to 27 °C). At night, the temperature can drop to between 60 to 65°F (15 to 18°C).
Humidity requirements
Polystachya fanora Schltr. thrives in high humidity. It requires a relative humidity of around 50 to 70%. Regularly mist the plant with a water spray bottle to increase humidity levels, or place the pot on top of a tray filled with pebbles and water.
Soil requirements
The plant requires well-draining potting soil that retains moisture but does not become waterlogged. The ideal potting mix should consist of a mix of orchid bark, charcoal, and perlite. These materials help to improve soil aeration and drainage.
Cultivation
Polystachya fanora Schltr. is an epiphytic orchid that naturally grows in the highlands of Madagascar, making it an excellent plant to cultivate indoors or in a greenhouse. It prefers moderate temperatures ranging from 60F to 80F, with air circulation to prevent humidity. Being epiphytic, it does not require soil to grow, and can be mounted on a piece of wood or bark instead.
Watering Needs
It is important to keep the growing medium of Polystachya fanora Schltr. slightly damp at all times. Overwatering it can cause the roots to rot, while under watering can lead to the leaves falling off. A good way to water the plant is to soak the growing medium in water, draining the excess water, and repeating after every two weeks or when the growing medium feels dry to the touch.
Fertilization
For optimal growth, you should fertilize Polystachya fanora Schltr. twice or thrice a month during the growing season. Use a balanced, water-soluble orchid fertilizer mixed to half its recommended strength. During the dormant season, reduce fertilizer applications to once a month.
Pruning
Pruning is essential for maintaining the plant's shape and size. You should prune the orchid after it has finished flowering. Cut off the old flowering spike as close to the base of the plant as possible. Additionally, remove any dead or damaged leaves and roots whenever they appear.
Propagation of Polystachya fanora Schltr.
Polystachya fanora Schltr. can be propagated through both sexual and asexual means. The plant produces seeds, which can be sown to grow new plants. Additionally, the plant can be propagated asexually through the division of its pseudobulbs.
Propagation by Seeds
The seeds of Polystachya fanora Schltr. should be sown as soon as they are ripe. The seeds need to be placed on a moist substrate and kept in a warm and humid environment. It is important to keep the substrate moist, but not overly wet, as excess water can cause the seeds to rot.
Once the seeds have germinated, they can be transplanted into individual pots. The substrate should be moist but well-drained, and the plants should be placed in a location with bright, indirect sunlight. The young plants should be regularly watered and fertilized until they are established.
Propagation by Division
The division of Polystachya fanora Schltr.'s pseudobulbs is another method of propagation for this plant. To propagate through division, the pseudobulbs should be separated when the plant is dormant. Each division should have at least two pseudobulbs and a healthy root system.
The divisions can be replanted in individual pots with a well-draining substrate. The plants should be placed in a location with bright, indirect sunlight and regularly watered until they are established.
Disease and Pest Management for Polystachya fanora Schltr.
Polystachya fanora Schltr. is known for its attractive flowers and is a favorite among orchid collectors. To keep the plant healthy, it is essential to protect it from disease and pest attacks. Here are some tips for disease and pest management:
Common Diseases:
1. Leaf Spots - Leaf spots are caused by bacterial or fungal infection, resulting in brown or black spots on leaves. To prevent leaf spots, avoid overcrowding of plants, provide adequate ventilation, and practice sanitary conditions. Remove affected leaves and spray with a fungicide.
2. Fusarium Wilt - This disease is caused by a fungus that affects the roots and can cause the plant to wilt. The infected plant should be removed immediately, and roots should be destroyed to prevent the spread of disease. Avoid overwatering and allow the soil to dry out between watering to prevent fungal growth.
Common Pests:
1. Scale Insects - Scale insects are common pests that feed on the plant's sap and weaken the plant. They can be identified as small, oval, and immobile insects on leaves and stems. To manage the infestation, remove the scale insects from the plant with a soft brush or cotton swab dipped in alcohol. Repeat the process until all the scales have been removed.
2. Spider Mites - Spider mites are tiny pests that feed on the leaves, causing yellowing, and curling of leaves. To manage the infestation, spray the plant with water to dislodge the spider mites. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to kill the remaining spider mites. Repeat the process until the infestation is under control.
3. Thrips - Thrips are tiny insects that feed on the plant's leaves, causing deformed and discolored leaves. To manage the infestation, spray the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Use yellow sticky traps to catch the adult thrips.
It is essential to monitor the plant regularly for any signs of disease or pests. Early detection and management of disease and pests can prevent the spread and damage to the plant.
