Contents
Description
Dolichorrhiza Renifolia, commonly known as the Chinese ground orchid, is a perennial herbaceous plant that belongs to the Orchidaceae family. It is native to China and can grow up to 45 cm in height. The plant has a cluster of basal leaves that are dark green in color and are kidney-shaped. In the spring, it produces a dense spike of pink-purple flowers that are about 5 cm in diameter. The plant is known for its attractive foliage and colorful flowers that make it a popular choice for gardens and landscapes.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Magnoliophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Asparagales |
| Family | Orchidaceae |
| Genus | Dolichorrhiza |
Appearance
The Chinese ground orchid has a clump-forming habit and produces a cluster of basal leaves that are dark green in color and are about 15 cm long and 10 cm wide. The leaves are kidney-shaped with a wavy margin and are arranged in a rosette. In the spring, the plant produces a dense spike of pink-purple flowers that are about 5 cm in diameter. The flowers are tubular in shape and have a lip that is yellow with purple spots. The plant blooms from May to June and the flowers last for about 4 weeks.
Care Guide
Water: The Chinese ground orchid prefers moist soil, but it does not like to be waterlogged. Water the plant when the top 2-3 cm of soil is dry to the touch.
Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. Do not fertilize the plant during the dormant season.
Soil: The Chinese ground orchid prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil should be slightly acidic with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0.
Sunlight: The plant prefers partial shade to full shade. Direct sunlight can burn the leaves and flowers.
Hardiness Zones: The Chinese ground orchid is hardy in USDA zones 5-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Chinese ground orchid is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it can be susceptible to slugs and snails, which can damage the leaves and flowers. To prevent slug and snail damage, use organic slug bait or handpick them from the plant.
Habitat
The Chinese ground orchid is native to China and grows in shady areas in forests and on mountainsides. It prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
Question and Answer
Q: Can the plant be grown indoors?
A: Yes, the Chinese ground orchid can be grown indoors as long as it receives adequate light and is kept in a well-draining potting mix.
Q: How often should I water the plant?
A: Water the plant when the top 2-3 cm of soil is dry to the touch.
Q: Can the plant be propagated by division?
A: Yes, the plant can be propagated by division in the spring or fall.
Q: What is the best time to fertilize the plant?
A: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. Do not fertilize the plant during the dormant season.
Related Plants
- Dolichorrhiza Incrassata
- Dolichorrhiza Lancifolia
- Dolichorrhiza Longipedicellata
- Dolichorrhiza Odorata
- Dolichorrhiza Urceolata
References
- “Dolichorrhiza Renifolia.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=279577. Accessed 12 July 2021.
- “Chinese Ground Orchid.” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/plants/18443/dolichorrhiza-renifolia/details. Accessed 12 July 2021.
- “Dolichorrhiza Renifolia.” Plant Delights Nursery, www.plantdelights.com/products/dolichorrhiza-renifolia. Accessed 12 July 2021.
