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Description
The Corybas Iridescens is a unique and fascinating plant that belongs to the Orchidaceae family. It is a terrestrial orchid that is native to New Zealand and is known for its stunning coloration and iridescence. The plant grows to be about 10 cm tall and has a single leaf that is heart-shaped and dark green in color. The flowers of the Corybas Iridescens are small and bell-shaped, with the outer surface being a deep purple color and the inner surface exhibiting a metallic blue iridescence. The plant blooms in late winter and early spring and can be found in damp and shady areas of the New Zealand forests.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Asparagales |
| Family | Orchidaceae |
| Genus | Corybas |
Appearance
The Corybas Iridescens is a small plant that grows to about 10 cm tall. It has a single heart-shaped leaf that is dark green in color and grows close to the ground. The flowers of the Corybas Iridescens are small and bell-shaped, with the outer surface being a deep purple color and the inner surface exhibiting a metallic blue iridescence. The iridescence of the inner surface of the flower is created by the presence of microscopic ridges that refract the light in a way that creates a shimmering effect. The plant blooms in late winter and early spring and can be found in damp and shady areas of the New Zealand forests.
Care Guide
The Corybas Iridescens is a relatively easy plant to care for, but it does have some specific needs. Here are some tips to help you care for your Corybas Iridescens:Water: The plant prefers to be kept moist, but not overly wet. Water the plant regularly, but make sure that the soil has a chance to dry out slightly between waterings.Fertilization: Fertilize the plant every two weeks during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.Soil: The Corybas Iridescens prefers soil that is rich in organic matter and well-draining.Sunlight: The plant prefers to be grown in partial shade or indirect light. Avoid exposing the plant to direct sunlight, as this can cause the leaves to burn.Hardiness Zones: The Corybas Iridescens prefers to be grown in USDA hardiness zones 8-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Corybas Iridescens is relatively resistant to pests and diseases. However, here are some potential issues to look out for:Slugs and snails: These pests can chew on the leaves and flowers of the plant. Use slug bait or copper tape to deter them.Root rot: Overwatering can cause root rot to develop. Make sure that the soil has a chance to dry out slightly between waterings.Spider mites: These pests can cause discoloration and leaf drop. Use an insecticidal soap to control spider mites.
Habitat
The Corybas Iridescens is native to New Zealand and can be found in damp and shady areas of the forests. The plant prefers to grow in soil that is rich in organic matter and well-draining.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water my Corybas Iridescens?
A: Water the plant regularly, but make sure that the soil has a chance to dry out slightly between waterings.Q: What hardiness zone is best for the Corybas Iridescens?
A: The plant prefers to be grown in USDA hardiness zones 8-11.Q: What is the iridescence of the inner surface of the flower caused by?
A: The iridescence of the inner surface of the flower is created by the presence of microscopic ridges that refract the light in a way that creates a shimmering effect.Q: What pests and diseases should I look out for when caring for my Corybas Iridescens?
A: Look out for slugs and snails, root rot, and spider mites.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to the Corybas Iridescens:
- Corybas aconitiflorus
- Corybas carsei
- Corybas cheesemanii
- Corybas cryptanthus
- Corybas dienemus
References
- “Corybas iridescens,” New Zealand Native Orchids, accessed August 27, 2021, https://www.nativeorchids.co.nz/Species/Corybas_iridescens.html.
- “Corybas iridescens,” Royal Horticultural Society, accessed August 27, 2021, https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/116107/Corybas-iridescens/Details.
- “Corybas iridescens,” World Checklist of Selected Plant Families, accessed August 27, 2021, http://wcsp.science.kew.org/namedetail.do?name_id=52794.
