Contents
Description
Gastrodia Molloyi is a unique and fascinating orchid species that is endemic to New Zealand. It is a terrestrial orchid that lacks chlorophyll and obtains its nutrients from fungi that associate with its roots. This plant has no leaves, but produces a single upright stem that can reach a height of up to 60 cm. The stem is usually reddish-brown in color with a few small scale-like leaves at its base. Gastrodia Molloyi produces small, greenish-yellow flowers that are borne in a spike at the top of the stem.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Asparagales |
| Family | Orchidaceae |
| Genus | Gastrodia |
Appearance
Gastrodia Molloyi is a slender, upright plant that grows up to 60 cm tall. It has a single stem that is reddish-brown in color and bears a few small scale-like leaves at its base. The stem is topped with a spike of small, greenish-yellow flowers. This plant has no leaves, as it obtains its nutrients from symbiotic fungi that associate with its roots.
Care Guide
Gastrodia Molloyi is a low-maintenance plant that is relatively easy to care for. Here are some tips for keeping this plant healthy:- Water: Gastrodia Molloyi prefers moist soil, but be careful not to overwater. Allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.- Fertilization: This plant does not require fertilization, as it obtains its nutrients from fungi that associate with its roots.- Soil: Gastrodia Molloyi prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.- Sunlight: This plant prefers shady conditions and should not be exposed to direct sunlight.- Hardiness Zones: Gastrodia Molloyi is hardy in zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Gastrodia Molloyi is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it may be susceptible to root rot if overwatered. To prevent this, ensure that the soil is well-draining and allow it to dry out slightly between waterings.
Habitat
Gastrodia Molloyi is endemic to New Zealand and is found in lowland to montane forest habitats. It prefers shady conditions and is often found growing on forest floors.
Question and Answer
Q: Does Gastrodia Molloyi require fertilization?
A: No, this plant obtains its nutrients from fungi that associate with its roots and does not require fertilization.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Gastrodia Molloyi?
A: Gastrodia Molloyi is hardy in zones 9-11.
Q: Is Gastrodia Molloyi susceptible to any pests or diseases?
A: Gastrodia Molloyi is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it may be susceptible to root rot if overwatered.
Q: Where is Gastrodia Molloyi found?
A: Gastrodia Molloyi is endemic to New Zealand and is found in lowland to montane forest habitats.
Related Plants
– Gastrodia Elata- Gastrodia Nigritella- Gastrodia Sesamoides- Gastrodia Tuberculata
References
– https://www.nzpcn.org.nz/flora/species/gastrodia-molloyi/- https://www.orchids.org/gastrodia-molloyi- https://www.rnzih.org.nz/pages/gastrodiamolloyi/
