Description
Polystachya laurentii (also called African Jewel Orchid, among many other common names) is a terrestrial orchid species native to tropical Africa. It has a single, erect, leafy stem, up to 40 cm tall, with several oblong-lanceolate leaves, up to 8 cm long and 2 cm wide. The inflorescence is a raceme of several flowers, with sepals and petals of a greenish-yellow color, and a lip with a yellowish-green background, and purple-brown spots.
Flower, Seeds and Seedlings
The flower of Polystachya laurentii is yellow in color, with a long, slender tube and six petals. The seed is small, black, and round. The seedling is a small, green, pointed shoot.
Cultivation and Propagation
Polystachya laurentii is a terrestrial orchid found in tropical Africa. It prefers a warm, humid climate and can be grown in a pot or in the ground. It can be propagated by division or by seed. The seed should be sown in a well-drained, peat-based potting mix, and kept in a warm, humid environment. The seedlings should be kept moist and in bright, indirect light. Once the seedlings have reached a few inches in height, they can be transplanted into individual pots.