Calanthe Speciosa
Contents
Description
Calanthe Speciosa, also known as the Asian Calanthe or Chinese Ground Orchid, is a species of terrestrial orchid that is native to China, Taiwan, Japan, and Korea. It is a perennial plant that grows up to 60 cm tall and produces a cluster of flowers on a tall stem. The flowers are typically pink, but can also be white or purple.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Asparagales |
| Family | Orchidaceae |
| Genus | Calanthe |
Appearance
Calanthe Speciosa has a pseudobulb that is round and flattened, with several leaves growing from the top. The leaves are oblong and can grow up to 30 cm long. The flowers are arranged in a raceme, which can grow up to 60 cm tall. The individual flowers are around 3 cm in diameter and have a lip that is fringed with hairs. They are typically pink, but can also be white or purple.
Care Guide
Calanthe Speciosa requires regular watering, but not too much as it can cause the roots to rot. Allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Fertilize with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season. Use a well-draining soil mix that is rich in organic matter. Calanthe Speciosa prefers partial to full shade and can tolerate temperatures down to -10°C.
Common Pests & Diseases
Calanthe Speciosa can be susceptible to spider mites, scale insects, and mealybugs. It can also be prone to fungal infections, such as root rot and leaf spot. To prevent pests and diseases, make sure to keep the plant healthy and well-maintained. Treat any pest or disease problems promptly.
Habitat
Calanthe Speciosa is native to China, Taiwan, Japan, and Korea, where it grows in forests and on mountainsides. It prefers moist, well-drained soil and partial to full shade.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water Calanthe Speciosa?
A: Water regularly, but allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.
Q: What temperature range does Calanthe Speciosa prefer?
A: Calanthe Speciosa prefers partial to full shade and can tolerate temperatures down to -10°C.
Q: What kind of soil does Calanthe Speciosa need?
A: Use a well-draining soil mix that is rich in organic matter.
Q: What are some common pests and diseases that affect Calanthe Speciosa?
A: Spider mites, scale insects, mealybugs, root rot, and leaf spot can be problematic for Calanthe Speciosa.
Related Plants
- Calanthe discolor
- Calanthe reflexa
- Calanthe tricarinata
- Calanthe vestita
References
- “Calanthe Speciosa.” World Checklist of Selected Plant Families, Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.
- “Calanthe Speciosa.” Missouri Botanical Garden.
- “Calanthe Speciosa.” Orchid Care Tips.
