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Description
Gastrochilus Calceolaris, also known as the Slipper Orchid, is a beautiful orchid species that belongs to the family Orchidaceae. This plant is native to Southeast Asia, including Thailand, Malaysia, and the Philippines. The name “Slipper Orchid” refers to the shape of its lip, which is pouch-like and resembles a slipper. This orchid is popular among gardeners and collectors because of its beautiful flowers, which can bloom at any time of the year.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Asparagales |
| Family | Orchidaceae |
| Genus | Gastrochilus |
Appearance
The Gastrochilus Calceolaris has a unique appearance that sets it apart from other orchid species. Its leaves are evergreen and can grow up to 15 cm long. The flowers of this plant are small, measuring only 2-3 cm in diameter. The flowers are usually pink or purple, but they can also be white or yellow. The lip of the flower is pouch-like and resembles a slipper, which is why it is commonly known as the Slipper Orchid.
Care Guide
The Gastrochilus Calceolaris is a relatively easy plant to care for. Here are some tips on how to take care of this orchid:- Water: This plant needs to be watered regularly, but you should avoid overwatering. Allow the soil to dry slightly before watering again.- Fertilization: You can fertilize this plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.- Soil: This orchid can grow in a variety of soil types, including orchid bark, sphagnum moss, or a mixture of the two.- Sunlight: This plant prefers bright, indirect light. You should avoid exposing it to direct sunlight, as this can burn its leaves.- Hardiness Zones: The Gastrochilus Calceolaris can grow in USDA hardiness zones 10-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Gastrochilus Calceolaris can be prone to some pests and diseases. Here are some of the most common ones:- Spider mites: These tiny pests can infest the leaves of the plant and cause them to turn yellow or brown. You can treat this infestation by spraying the plant with a mixture of water and neem oil.- Mealybugs: These pests can also infest the leaves of the plant and cause them to wilt. You can treat this infestation by wiping the leaves with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol.- Root rot: This disease can occur if the plant is overwatered or if the soil does not drain well. You can prevent this disease by allowing the soil to dry out slightly before watering again.
Habitat
The Gastrochilus Calceolaris is a versatile plant that can grow in various habitats. It is native to Southeast Asia, where it can be found growing on trees, rocks, and cliffs. This orchid can also be grown in gardens or in containers, as long as its care requirements are met.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water my Gastrochilus Calceolaris?
A: You should water your plant regularly, but avoid overwatering. Allow the soil to dry out slightly before watering again.
Q: Can I grow Gastrochilus Calceolaris in a container?
A: Yes, this plant can be grown in a container as long as its care requirements are met.
Q: What is the best fertilizer to use for Gastrochilus Calceolaris?
A: You can use a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Gastrochilus Calceolaris?
A: This plant can grow in USDA hardiness zones 10-11.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants that you might be interested in:- Gastrochilus obliquus- Gastrochilus japonicus- Gastrochilus calceolaris var. bakoensis- Gastrochilus acutifolius
References
– “Gastrochilus Calceolaris.” Missouri Botanical Garden. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=286087&isprofile=0&basic=Gastrochilus%20calceolaris- “Gastrochilus Calceolaris.” Orchids Wiki. https://orchids.fandom.com/wiki/Gastrochilus_calceolaris- “Slipper Orchid.” Gardening Know How. https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/flowers/orchids/slipper-orchid.htm
