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Bucephalandra motleyana Schott

Introduction & Overview

Common and Scientific Names

  • Scientific Name: Bucephalandra motleyana Schott
  • Common Name: Motley’s Bucephalandra

Quick Facts

  • Origin: Hails from Borneo’s humid rainforests, often growing on rocks or submerged in water
  • Features: Feature is its glossy, dark green leaves, frequently tinged with purple or bronze hues. The plant is a favorite among aquascapers for its striking aesthetic and adaptability

Taxonomy & Classification

  • Genus: Bucephalandra
  • Botanical Background:  Described by botanist Schott in the 19th century. Its name honors the late Dr. Motley, an early contributor to the study of the genus Bucephalandra.

Natural Habitat & Distribution

  • Geographical Range: Native to Borneo, particularly in areas with humid, tropical environments such as freshwater streams, pools, and shaded rock surfaces.
  • Environment: Thrives in warm, moist conditions. It prefers high humidity, soft, slightly acidic water, and temperatures between 22°C and 28°C. It is often found in shaded areas, suggesting a tolerance for lower light levels.

Morphological Characteristics

Leaves

  • Dark green, glossy leaves with pronounced, smooth edges
  • Rich range of hues, including purple, bronze, or red on the undersides

Inflorescence (Spadix & Spathe)

  • Small and inconspicuous inflorescence
  • Spathe is typically white or green and protects the spadix

Growth Habit

  • Epiphytic or aquatic
  • Growing on submerged rocks in streams

Cultivation & Care

Light Requirements

  • Bright, indirect light
  • Too much direct sunlight may cause its leaves to burn

Watering & Humidity

  • High humidity
  • Should be kept consistently moist but not waterlogged
  • Humidity level of 60% or higher

Soil & Potting Mix

  • A well-draining, acidic substrate, such as a mix of orchid bark, perlite, and peat moss
  •  Soft and slightly acidic water

Temperature & Fertilizer

  • Temperatures range between 22°C and 28°C
  • Balanced fertilization during the growing season

Propagation Methods

Division and Stem Cuttings

  • Rhizome division
  • Cuttings can also be taken, ensuring the node is intact to promote new growth

Seeds

  • Requires specific environmental conditions for germination

Common Pests & Diseases

Typical Issues

  • Mealybugs and aphids
  • Root rot

Treatment Recommendations

  • Insecticidal soap
  • Neem oil
  • Maintaining proper water drainage

Notable Traits & Uses

  • Aesthetic appeal
  • Utilized in aquascaping for creating lush, natural-looking environments in freshwater tank
  • Occasionally featured in botanical studies due to its unique growth patterns in aquatic settings
  • Vibrant coloration and distinctive leaf patterns
  • Relatively low-maintenance when grown in the right conditions

Conservation & Availability

Wild Population Status

  • Considered endangered
  • Habitat destruction in tropical regions poses a potential threat to its natural environment

Market Availability

  • Commonly available as other Aroids
  • Accessible through specialty nurseries and aquatic plant suppliers

References & Resources

Further Reading

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