Contents
Description
Gastrodia Procera, also known as the giant orchid or bamboo orchid, is a rare and unique orchid species native to Asia. It is a mycoheterotrophic plant, which means it obtains nutrients from fungi instead of photosynthesis. This plant has a single stem that can grow up to 1.5 meters tall and produces small, fragrant flowers arranged in a raceme. It is a popular ornamental plant due to its unique appearance and hardiness.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Asparagales |
| Family | Orchidaceae |
| Genus | Gastrodia |
Appearance
Gastrodia Procera has a single stem that can grow up to 1.5 meters tall. The stem is green to yellowish-green in color and has a smooth surface. It produces small, fragrant flowers arranged in a raceme. The flowers are white to pinkish in color and have a diameter of about 1 cm. The leaves are reduced to scales and are located near the base of the stem. The plant produces underground tubers that are fleshy and edible.
Care Guide
Gastrodia Procera is a hardy plant and requires minimal care. Here are some tips for its care:
- Water: The plant prefers moist soil but is tolerant of drought. Water the plant when the soil is dry to the touch.
- Fertilization: The plant does not require fertilization.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers partial shade to full shade.
- Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Gastrodia Procera is generally not susceptible to pests and diseases. However, it may be affected by root rot if overwatered or planted in poorly draining soil. If root rot is suspected, remove the affected plant parts and repot in fresh, well-draining soil.
Habitat
Gastrodia Procera is native to Asia, including China, Japan, Korea, and Taiwan. It grows in moist, shady forests, often on the forest floor or on rotting logs. The plant is often found in association with fungi, which provide it with nutrients.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Gastrodia Procera a rare plant?
A: Yes, Gastrodia Procera is a rare and unique orchid species.
Q: Does Gastrodia Procera require fertilizer?
A: No, the plant does not require fertilizer.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Gastrodia Procera?
A: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Q: What is a mycoheterotrophic plant?
A: A mycoheterotrophic plant is a plant that obtains nutrients from fungi instead of photosynthesis.
Related Plants
- Gastrodia Elata
- Gastrodia Nantoensis
- Gastrodia Kuroshimensis
References
- Chen, S. C., & Chen, G. L. (2015). Gastrodia procera. Flora of China. Science Press/Missouri Botanical Garden Press.
- Kuo, K. C., & Chen, W. H. (2010). The morphology and anatomy of Gastrodia procera (Orchidaceae) in Taiwan. Taiwania, 55(4), 389-397.
- Lin, T. P., & Chen, W. H. (2014). Mycoheterotrophic orchids of Taiwan: diversity, ecology and conservation. Taiwania, 59(4), 279-293.
