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Description
Diploprora is a genus of orchids that belongs to the family Orchidaceae. The name “Diploprora” is derived from the Greek words “diploos,” meaning double, and “pros,” meaning face, referring to the plant’s two-faced flowers. It is a rare plant species that is native to Southeast Asia, specifically to Borneo, Sumatra, and Peninsular Malaysia. The plant has two leaves that are thick and fleshy, and its flowers are small, delicate, and fragrant.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Asparagales |
| Family | Orchidaceae |
| Genus | Diploprora |
Appearance
Diploprora has two thick and fleshy leaves that are elliptic in shape and can grow up to 15 cm in length. The plant’s flowers are small, delicate, and fragrant, and grow in clusters on a spike that can reach up to 30 cm in length. The flowers are two-faced, meaning that they have two different looks depending on the angle from which they are viewed. The plant’s petals and sepals are typically green or yellowish-green, while the lip is white or cream-colored with purple spots.
Care Guide
Diploprora is a relatively easy plant to care for, but it does have some specific requirements.
- Water: Diploprora prefers to be kept moist but not waterlogged. Water the plant when the top inch of soil is dry to the touch.
- Fertilization: Feed Diploprora with a balanced orchid fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season.
- Soil: Use a well-draining orchid mix that contains bark, perlite, and charcoal.
- Sunlight: Diploprora prefers bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sunlight as it can burn the plant’s leaves.
- Hardiness Zones: Diploprora is a tropical plant and prefers temperatures between 18°C and 30°C. It is hardy in USDA zones 10 and 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Diploprora is susceptible to some common orchid pests and diseases, including:
- Spider mites: These tiny pests can cause yellowing leaves and webbing on the plant. Treat with an insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Mealybugs: Mealybugs are small, white, cottony insects that can cause stunted growth and yellowing leaves. Treat with an insecticidal soap or alcohol solution.
- Root rot: Overwatering can lead to root rot, which can cause the plant to wilt and die. Ensure that the plant’s soil is well-draining and that it is not sitting in water.
Habitat
Diploprora is native to Southeast Asia, specifically to Borneo, Sumatra, and Peninsular Malaysia. It is a terrestrial plant that grows in shaded areas in the forest.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Diploprora an easy plant to care for?
A: Yes, Diploprora is a relatively easy plant to care for, but it does have specific requirements, such as well-draining soil, bright but indirect light, and regular fertilization.
Q: What are some common pests and diseases that affect Diploprora?
A: Diploprora is susceptible to spider mites, mealybugs, and root rot.
Q: Where is Diploprora native to?
A: Diploprora is native to Southeast Asia, specifically to Borneo, Sumatra, and Peninsular Malaysia.
Q: What is the meaning of the name “Diploprora”?
A: The name “Diploprora” is derived from the Greek words “diploos,” meaning double, and “pros,” meaning face, referring to the plant’s two-faced flowers.
Related Plants
- Cattleya orchid
- Dendrobium orchid
- Miltonia orchid
- Oncidium orchid
References
- Orchid Society of Southeast Asia. (n.d.). Diploprora Blume. Retrieved from https://www.orchidspecies.com/diploprora.htm
- Royal Horticultural Society. (n.d.). Diploprora. Retrieved from https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/26142/diploprora/details
- World Checklist of Selected Plant Families. (n.d.). Diploprora. Retrieved from http://wcsp.science.kew.org/namedetail.do?name_id=61829
