Polystachya macropoda Summerh. - Plant Description
Polystachya macropoda Summerh. is a rare, epiphytic orchid species that belongs to the family Orchidaceae. The plant is also known by its common names, including Purple Polystachya and Giant-Flowered Polystachya. It is native to Africa, where it is found in countries such as Cameroon, Congo, Tanzania, and Zambia.
The plant has a distinctive appearance, with each stem bearing up to 20 fragrant flowers. The flowers exhibit a unique color combination of purple and yellow, with broad, spreading petals. The sepals are narrower than the petals, and the lip is elongated and recurved, forming a broad tube at the base. The leaves are narrow, elongated, and green-colored.
Polystachya macropoda Summerh. - Uses
Polystachya macropoda Summerh. is primarily grown as an ornamental plant due to its striking appearance and sweet fragrance. It is commonly grown in gardens, greenhouses, and conservatories. The plant attracts pollinators such as bees, butterflies, and moths. Additionally, extracts from the plant have medicinal uses in traditional African medicine to cure various ailments such as stomach problems, fever, and headache.
Polystachya macropoda Summerh. - General Appearance
Polystachya macropoda Summerh. is a medium-sized orchid plant that can reach up to 40 centimeters in height. The plant has an epiphytic growth habit, with stems that grow radially and attach themselves to tree branches using aerial roots. Each stem bears up to 20 fragrant, purple, and yellow flowers. The leaves are elongated and green-colored, and the stem is slender and elongated. The roots are thin and stringy, and they grow from the bottom of the stem.
Growth conditions of Polystachya macropoda Summerh.
Polystachya macropoda Summerh. is an epiphytic orchid species that is mostly found growing on the bark of trees in the tropical and subtropical regions of Africa. In order to ensure its proper growth and development, the plant requires some specific growth conditions. These growth conditions include the following:
Light requirements
Polystachya macropoda Summerh. requires bright but indirect sunlight for its growth and development. The plant should, therefore, be placed in a location where it can receive bright, filtered light without being exposed to direct sunlight. Exposure to direct sunlight can lead to leaf scorching, which can damage the plant.
Temperature requirements
The plant requires warm and humid conditions for its growth and development. The ideal temperature range for Polystachya macropoda Summerh. is between 18°C and 30°C. Temperatures below this range can cause stunted growth and leaf yellowing while excessively high temperatures can lead to leaf dehydration and death.
Soil requirements
Polystachya macropoda Summerh. is an epiphytic orchid that grows on the bark of trees in its natural habitat. As such, it does not require soil for its growth. For containerized plants, a porous and well-draining potting mix that mimics the plant's natural growing environment can be used. This potting mix should be able to retain some moisture without becoming waterlogged, as waterlogging can lead to root rot.
Overall, the growth conditions of Polystachya macropoda Summerh. are relatively easy to provide, and with proper care, the plant can thrive and produce beautiful flowers.
Cultivation Method for Polystachya Macropoda Summerh.
Polystachya Macropoda Summerh. can be grown indoors as well as outdoors. This plant does well in warm temperatures and is recommended to be placed in partial shade or filtered light. It requires proper ventilation to prevent humidity buildup.
Watering Needs for Polystachya Macropoda Summerh.
The frequency of watering depends on the season and the environment in which the plant is growing. During the growing season, the plant must receive regular watering, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged. In the dormant period, reduce watering and only water when the soil dries out.
Fertilization of Polystachya Macropoda Summerh.
The recommended time to fertilize Polystachya Macropoda Summerh. is during the growing season. Use a balanced fertilizer and dilute it to half strength. Over-fertilization can cause damage to the plant, so be careful about the amount used.
Pruning of Polystachya Macropoda Summerh.
It is not necessary to prune Polystachya Macropoda Summerh., but it can be done if desired. Pruning should be done in the spring when new growth appears. Pruning the plant allows for new growth and the removal of any dead or damaged parts. Ensure to use clean and sharp pruning tools.
Propagation of Polystachya macropoda Summerh.
Polystachya macropoda Summerh. is a beautiful orchid with attractive flowers. It is an epiphytic plant that grows on trees and rocks. Propagating Polystachya macropoda Summerh. can be done through multiple methods:
Propagation by Division
Division is a popular and effective method of propagation for Polystachya macropoda Summerh. This method involves dividing the plant into several smaller sections, each with its own growing point. The division should be done during the growing season, and the new plants should be potted in suitable growing media. Ensure that each new plant has enough roots to sustain itself. Water the newly potted plants regularly, but don't overwater them.
Propagation by Seeds
Seeds are another viable way to propagate Polystachya macropoda Summerh. However, it can take several years before the plants start to flower. To propagate via seeds, it is best to use fresh seeds that have been collected from a mature plant. It is best to sow the seeds on moist sphagnum moss, then place the container in a shaded area with good ventilation. Regularly mist the seeds to keep the growing media moist but not waterlogged. Once the seedlings are large enough, they can be potted in suitable growing media.
Propagation by Keikis
Keikis, or baby plants, may develop on the stem of mature Polystachya macropoda Summerh. plants. They can be propagated by waiting until they develop their own roots and then cutting them off the parent plant. Pot them in a suitable growing media, and keep them in a shaded area with good ventilation.
Propagation of Polystachya macropoda Summerh. can be done through multiple methods. Division, seeds, and keikis are all viable ways to propagate this beautiful orchid.
Disease and Pest Management for Polystachya macropoda Summerh.
Polystachya macropoda Summerh. is a beautiful orchid plant that adds a unique touch to any garden or home. However, like all plants, it is vulnerable to various pests and diseases. Here are some of the common diseases and pests that could affect Polystachya macropoda Summerh. and how to manage them:
Diseases:
1. Fusarium wilt: This is a fungal disease that can cause wilting and yellowing of leaves. To manage this disease, avoid overwatering and remove infected parts of the plant. Fungicides can also be applied.
2. Anthracnose: This is a fungal disease that causes small brown spots on leaves, stems, and flowers, which can later turn black and spread fast. To manage this disease, remove all infected plant parts and avoid wetting the leaves or flowers. Fungicides can also be used.
3. Bacterial blight: This disease causes black or brown spots to appear on leaves and flowers. The infected plant parts should be removed, and the plant should be isolated to avoid spreading to other plants. Copper fungicides can also be applied to manage the disease.
Pests:
1. Spider mites: These pests can cause a yellowish appearance on leaves, and the plant may become weak. The best way to manage spider mites is to keep the plant hydrated and increase the humidity around the plant. Acaricides can be used for severe infestations.
2. Scale insects: These pests attack the leaves and flowers, causing them to become yellow and dry out. To manage scale insects, remove the infected plant parts and apply insecticides.
3. Aphids: These pests distort the leaves and flowers, making them curl and turn yellow. To manage aphids, spray the plant with water, and apply insecticides.
Polystachya macropoda Summerh. can be protected from diseases and pests by regular observation and maintenance. Proper hygiene and timely management can help safeguard this beautiful plant.
