Polystachya oblanceolata Summerh. - Description
Polystachya oblanceolata Summerh. is a species of orchid that belongs to the family Orchidaceae. This plant is also commonly referred to as the Oblanceolate Polystachya. The plant is native to tropical Africa and can be found in countries such as Nigeria, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Gabon, and Congo.
General Appearance
The Polystachya oblanceolata Summerh. plant is epiphytic and can reach heights of up to 30 cm. The stem of the plant is thin and branched, and the leaves are thin, lanceolate, and measure about 6-10 cm in length. The plant blooms in the summer months, producing dense inflorescences of yellowish-green flowers that have a pleasant fragrance.
Uses
The Polystachya oblanceolata Summerh. plant has several practical uses. In traditional African medicine, the plant is used to treat conditions such as stomach aches, fever, and respiratory infections. The leaves and roots contain properties that work to alleviate inflammation and fever. Additionally, the plant is used in decorative arrangements and for ornamental purposes in gardens and households around the world.
Overall, Polystachya oblanceolata Summerh. is a versatile and attractive plant that has both practical and aesthetic applications.
Light Conditions
Polystachya oblanceolata Summerh. requires a moderate amount of light to grow. Too much sunlight may lead to the plant's drying up, while too little sunlight may result in stunted growth. The ideal lighting condition is partly shady, with a few hours of sunlight in the morning and indirect light the rest of the day.
Temperature Conditions
The plant thrives in warm temperatures ranging from 18°C to 25°C. Temperature fluctuations can stress the plant and reduce its growth rate or cause it to shed its leaves. In areas with colder temperatures, it's important to keep the plant in a warm area indoors or in a greenhouse to maintain proper growth conditions.
Soil Requirements
The Polystachya oblanceolata Summerh. requires moist, well-draining soil to grow effectively. The soil should not be kept too dry or too wet, as both conditions can lead to root rot and death of the plant. A good mixture of peat moss, bark, and perlite is ideal. The plant is also known to grow well in soilless environments, making it an excellent option for hydroponic gardening.
Cultivation Methods
The Polystachya oblanceolata Summerh. is an epiphytic orchid plant and can grow well in a slightly shaded area with high humidity. To cultivate this plant, you will need to use a potting mix that comprises pine bark, charcoal, and perlite. This will provide the necessary nutrients and good drainage.
It's important to note that the Polystachya oblanceolata Summerh. plant should not be potted in soil as it can cause root rot. Instead, you can use small baskets with a lined sphagnum moss base, which can be hung in the shade to offer the best growth conditions.
Watering Needs
Watering this plant requires attention, as it's essential not to allow the roots to dry out completely as this can lead to damage or death of the plant. During the growing season, water this plant at least once a week, ensuring that the potting mix remains moist but not too wet. During the hot season, more frequent watering may be necessary.
To ensure the perfect watering conditions, ensure that the water used is lukewarm and free of chlorine. Distilled water or rainwater is ideal for watering this plant. Avoid splashing water on the leaves or flowers, as this may cause unsightly spots or damage to the leaves or flowers.
Fertilization
To keep the Polystachya oblanceolata Summerh. plant healthy, balanced fertilization with low nitrogen content is recommended. Fertilizers containing less nitrogen and plenty of potassium and phosphorus are ideal for this plant. Fertilize once a month during the growing season, diluting the fertilizer according to the instructions on the bottle. Avoid overfertilization, as this can cause damage or kill the plant.
Pruning
Pruning is essential for a well-maintained Polystachya oblanceolata Summerh. plant. Remove spent or damaged flowers and leaves regularly to keep the plant disease-free. Avoid cutting the plant's stems or roots unless it's absolutely necessary, as this can harm the plant and reduce its growth rate. If pruning is required, always make clean cuts and avoid using blunt tools that may cause damage to the plant.
Propagation of Polystachya oblanceolata Summerh.
Polystachya oblanceolata Summerh. is a fascinating plant that blooms with gorgeous, fragrant flowers and has an unusual growth habit. The plant can be propagated through several methods, including division, keiki production, and seed sowing.
Division
Division is a commonly used propagation method for Polystachya oblanceolata Summerh. You can divide the plant when it becomes too big for its container or when it has produced new growth. To divide the plant, carefully remove it from its container and separate the clumps of new growth with a sharp, sterile tool like scissors or a knife. Make sure each division has enough roots and leaves to thrive.
Keiki Production
Keiki production is a natural form of propagation that Polystachya oblanceolata Summerh. can produce. Keikis are small plantlets that grow on the parent plant's stem. To encourage keiki production, create a moist environment by increasing humidity levels around the plant. You can use a humidifier, or place the plant in a clear plastic bag with a small amount of water at the bottom to increase humidity levels. Keikis can be removed and planted in soil once they have obtained a good root system and are large enough to sustain themselves.
Seed Sowing
Seed sowing is another way to propagate Polystachya oblanceolata Summerh. Collect the seeds when the seed pods have dried and started to split open. Be sure to use clean, sterile trays or pots to start the seedlings as these plants are prone to developing fungal diseases. Make sure the medium is damp but not soaking wet. Cover the pots or trays with clear plastic to maintain humidity levels and place them in a sunny and warm location. Once the seedlings have developed enough, they can be transplanted to a new container with properly well-drained medium, and then gradually acclimated to environmental conditions outside their first cocoon.
Disease control
One of the common diseases that can affect Polystachya oblanceolata is leaf spot. This is caused by fungi such as Cercospora or Fusarium. To manage this disease, it is essential to keep the plant dry by avoiding over-watering and leaf wetness. The affected leaves can be pruned and destroyed, and the plant should be sprayed with a fungicide recommended for the control of leaf spot.
Another disease that can affect Polystachya oblanceolata is powdery mildew, which is caused by fungi such as Leveillula taurica or Oidium sp. This disease is characterized by the presence of a white powdery substance on the leaves, stems, and flowers. To manage this disease, it is recommended to remove the affected plant parts, improve air circulation around the plant, and apply an appropriate fungicide.
Pest control
One of the common pests that can affect Polystachya oblanceolata is spider mites. They form colonies on the underside of leaves and suck sap, leading to stunted growth, defoliation, and eventually, death of the plant. To manage spider mites, it is essential to regularly check the plant for any signs of infestation, increase humidity around the plant, and apply an appropriate insecticide.
Another pest that can affect Polystachya oblanceolata is mealybugs. They feed on plant sap and excrete a sticky substance that can attract ants and lead to the growth of sooty mold. To manage mealybugs, it is crucial to remove the affected plant parts, apply an appropriate insecticide, and control ants that can spread the infestation.
Overall, it is important to regularly monitor Polystachya oblanceolata for any signs of diseases or pests and take appropriate measures to manage them. This will ensure that the plant remains healthy and thrives in its environment.
