Contents
Description
Fernandezia is a genus of orchids that belongs to the family of Orchidaceae. It is native to Central America and South America. The genus was named after Francisco Manuel Blanco Fernandez, a Spanish botanical artist. The plants are epiphytic, which means they grow on the surface of other plants or trees. Fernandezia orchids are known for their beautiful, small flowers that bloom in clusters. The flowers come in a variety of colors, including pink, purple, yellow, and white. The plants are easy to care for and are a great addition to any collection.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Asparagales |
| Family | Orchidaceae |
| Genus | Fernandezia |
Appearance
Fernandezia orchids are small, epiphytic plants that grow up to 12 inches tall. The leaves are thin, elongated, and light green in color. The flowers are small, about 1 inch in diameter, and grow in clusters of up to 20 blooms. The flowers have a unique shape, with a lip or labellum that is divided into three parts. The flowers come in a variety of colors, including pink, purple, yellow, and white. The petals and sepals are often striped or spotted.
Care Guide
Fernandezia orchids are easy to care for and can be grown both indoors and outdoors. Here are some tips for caring for your Fernandezia orchid:- Water: Fernandezia orchids prefer to be kept moist but not wet. Water them once a week or when the top inch of the soil is dry. Use room temperature water and avoid getting water on the leaves or flowers.- Fertilization: Feed your Fernandezia orchid with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season. Use a fertilizer that is specifically formulated for orchids.- Soil: Fernandezia orchids prefer a well-draining potting mix. Use a mix that is specifically formulated for orchids or make your own by combining bark, perlite, and charcoal.- Sunlight: Fernandezia orchids prefer bright but indirect sunlight. Avoid direct sunlight as it can burn the leaves and flowers.- Hardiness Zones: Fernandezia orchids are hardy in USDA zones 10 and 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Fernandezia orchids are relatively pest and disease-free, but they can still be affected by common orchid problems. Here are some of the most common pests and diseases that affect Fernandezia orchids:- Scale insects: These tiny insects feed on the sap of the plant and can cause yellowing of the leaves. Use a cotton swab dipped in alcohol to remove them.- Spider mites: These tiny insects can cause webbing on the leaves and flowers. Use a miticide to control them.- Root rot: Overwatering can cause the roots to rot and the plant to wilt. Reduce watering and repot the plant in fresh soil.
Habitat
Fernandezia orchids are native to Central America and South America. They grow in the rainforest, where they attach themselves to the bark of trees and other plants. They prefer a warm, humid environment and do well in a greenhouse or terrarium.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water my Fernandezia orchid?
A: Water your Fernandezia orchid once a week or when the top inch of the soil is dry.
Q: What kind of fertilizer should I use for my Fernandezia orchid?
A: Use a balanced fertilizer that is specifically formulated for orchids. Feed your plant once a month during the growing season.
Q: Can I grow Fernandezia orchids indoors?
A: Yes, Fernandezia orchids can be grown indoors as long as they have access to bright but indirect sunlight.
Q: How do I repot my Fernandezia orchid?
A: Repot your Fernandezia orchid in fresh soil every 1-2 years. Gently remove the plant from its pot and remove any dead or damaged roots. Place the plant in a new pot with fresh soil and water it well.
Related Plants
– Masdevallia- Dracula- Pleurothallis- Lepanthes
References
– “Fernandezia.” Wikipedia, Wikimedia Foundation, 15 Apr. 2021, en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fernandezia.- “Fernandezia.” Orchids Made Easy, 2021, orchidsmadeeasy.com/fernandezia/.
