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Description
Drakaea Livida, commonly known as the Hammer Orchid, is a species of orchid native to Australia. It is a fascinating plant with a unique pollination method that involves attracting male thynnine wasps with a floral scent that mimics the pheromones of female wasps. The wasps are then tricked into pollinating the flower while trying to mate with it, as the flower’s labellum resembles a female wasp.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Asparagales |
| Family | Orchidaceae |
| Genus | Drakaea |
Appearance
The Hammer Orchid has a unique appearance that is designed to mimic a female thynnine wasp. The flower is small, measuring only about 2 cm in length, and has a brownish-red color with white markings. The labellum, which resembles the female wasp, is hinged and can be moved up and down like a hammer. When a male wasp lands on the labellum, it triggers the hinge to close, trapping the wasp inside the flower and forcing it to pollinate the flower.
Care Guide
Drakaea Livida is a terrestrial orchid that requires well-draining soil and partial to full sunlight. It should be watered regularly, but care should be taken not to over-water the plant as this can lead to root rot. Fertilization should be done once a month during the growing season, using a balanced fertilizer. The plant is hardy to USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Common pests that can affect the Hammer Orchid include spider mites, aphids, and mealybugs. These pests can be controlled with a solution of neem oil and water. The plant is susceptible to fungal diseases such as black spot and rust, which can be prevented by keeping the plant dry and avoiding over-watering.
Habitat
Drakaea Livida is native to Western Australia and can be found in sandy soils in heathland and woodland areas. It is a rare plant and is considered vulnerable due to habitat loss and fragmentation.
Question and Answer
Q: What is the pollination method of the Hammer Orchid?
A: The Hammer Orchid attracts male thynnine wasps with a floral scent that mimics the pheromones of female wasps. The wasps are then tricked into pollinating the flower while trying to mate with it, as the flower’s labellum resembles a female wasp.
Q: What kind of soil does the Hammer Orchid require?
A: The Hammer Orchid requires well-draining soil.
Q: What are some common pests that can affect the Hammer Orchid?
A: Common pests that can affect the Hammer Orchid include spider mites, aphids, and mealybugs.
Q: Where is Drakaea Livida native to?
A: Drakaea Livida is native to Western Australia.
Related Plants
- Drakaea elastica
- Drakaea glyptodon
- Drakaea isolata
- Drakaea micrantha
References
- https://www.orchids.org/grexes/drakaea-livida
- https://www.anbg.gov.au/gnp/interns-2002/drakaea-livida.html
- https://www.orchidsaustralia.com/pages/orchid-profiles-d-to-l
