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Description
Collabium Formosanum, also known as the Taiwanese Collabium, is a stunning orchid species that is native to Taiwan, the Philippines, and other parts of Southeast Asia. This orchid is a perennial epiphyte, meaning it grows on other plants, but it is not parasitic. It produces a single, upright stem that can reach up to 40cm in height, and it typically blooms in the spring or summer.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Asparagales |
| Family | Orchidaceae |
| Genus | Collabium |
Appearance
Collabium Formosanum is a stunning orchid species that features large, showy flowers that are typically pink or white. The flowers are about 5cm in diameter and have a pleasant fragrance. The plant produces a single, upright stem that can reach up to 40cm in height, and it typically blooms in the spring or summer. This orchid is an epiphyte, meaning it grows on other plants, and it has long, slender leaves that grow up to 30cm in length.
Care Guide
Collabium Formosanum is a relatively easy orchid to care for, but it does require some specific conditions to thrive. Here are some tips for caring for this beautiful plant:- Water: This orchid prefers to be kept moist but not waterlogged. Water it when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.- Fertilization: Feed this orchid with a balanced fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season.- Soil: Collabium Formosanum is an epiphyte, meaning it does not grow in soil. Instead, it grows on other plants or in a potting mixture that is specifically formulated for epiphytic orchids.- Sunlight: This orchid prefers bright, indirect light. Avoid placing it in direct sunlight, which can burn the leaves.- Hardiness Zones: Collabium Formosanum is hardy in USDA zones 10-12.
Common Pests & Diseases
Collabium Formosanum is relatively resistant to pests and diseases, but it can still fall victim to a few common problems. Here are some of the most common pests and diseases that affect this orchid:- Spider mites: These tiny insects can cause yellowing and webbing on the leaves. Use a miticide to control them.- Mealybugs: These soft-bodied insects can cause stunted growth and yellowing on the leaves. Use an insecticidal soap to control them.- Root rot: Overwatering can cause the roots to rot, which can be fatal to the plant. Make sure the soil is well-draining and avoid letting the plant sit in standing water.
Habitat
Collabium Formosanum is native to Taiwan, the Philippines, and other parts of Southeast Asia. It grows in tropical forests and can be found growing on other plants, such as trees and shrubs. This orchid prefers warm, humid conditions and bright, indirect light.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water Collabium Formosanum?
A: Water your orchid when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.
Q: What kind of fertilizer should I use on Collabium Formosanum?
A: Use a balanced fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Collabium Formosanum?
A: This orchid is hardy in USDA zones 10-12.
Q: Can Collabium Formosanum be grown indoors?
A: Yes, this orchid can be grown indoors as long as it receives bright, indirect light and warm, humid conditions.
Related Plants
– Collabium chinense- Collabium elatum- Collabium guttatum- Collabium lanceolatum- Collabium speciosum
References
– “Collabium formosanum” Flora of Taiwan, 2nd ed. 1996- “Collabium formosanum” The Complete Guide to Orchids. 2011.- “Collabium formosanum” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 9 June 2021.
