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Description
Epipactis Gigantea, also known as the Stream Orchid, is a species of orchid native to North America. This stunning plant is known for its large, showy flowers that bloom in the summer. The flowers are a pale greenish-yellow and have a distinct, intricate pattern of purple and brown markings. The Stream Orchid is a terrestrial orchid that grows in moist, shady areas near streams and creeks.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Asparagales |
| Family | Orchidaceae |
| Genus | Epipactis |
| Species | Epipactis Gigantea |
Appearance
Epipactis Gigantea can grow up to 3 feet tall and has a spread of about 1 foot. The plant has a single stem with several pairs of lance-shaped leaves that are a deep green color. The flowers grow in a loose cluster at the top of the stem and can have up to 20 blooms. Each flower is about 1.5 inches long and has a lip that is curved upward. The petals and sepals are a pale greenish-yellow color with purple and brown markings.
Care Guide
Epipactis Gigantea is a relatively easy orchid to care for. Here are some tips to keep your plant healthy and thriving:- Water: Keep the soil consistently moist, but not waterlogged. Water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.- Soil: Epipactis Gigantea prefers a well-draining, slightly acidic soil.- Sunlight: The plant prefers partial shade to full shade.- Hardiness Zones: Epipactis Gigantea is hardy in USDA zones 5-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Epipactis Gigantea is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can occasionally be affected by spider mites, scale insects, and mealybugs. To prevent these pests, keep the plant healthy and avoid overwatering. If you do notice an infestation, treat the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Epipactis Gigantea is native to North America and can be found in moist, shady areas near streams, creeks, and other bodies of water. The plant prefers slightly acidic soil and partial to full shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Epipactis Gigantea be grown indoors?
A: Yes, Epipactis Gigantea can be grown indoors as long as it is placed in a location with bright, indirect light and kept consistently moist.
Q: How often should I fertilize Epipactis Gigantea?
A: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: Does Epipactis Gigantea require special care during the winter?
A: Epipactis Gigantea is hardy in USDA zones 5-9 and can tolerate cold temperatures. However, it may benefit from being covered with a layer of mulch during the winter.
Q: Can Epipactis Gigantea be propagated?
A: Yes, Epipactis Gigantea can be propagated by dividing the plant in the spring.
Related Plants
– Epipactis Helleborine- Epipactis Palustris- Epipactis Atrorubens- Epipactis Gigantea var. Leptochila- Epipactis Muirii
References
– “Epipactis Gigantea.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=254422.- “Epipactis Gigantea.” North Carolina State University, https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/all/epipactis-gigantea/.- “Epipactis Gigantea.” Pacific Bulb Society, www.pacificbulbsociety.org/pbswiki/index.php/EpipactisGigantea.
