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Description
Gomesa Flexuosa, also known as the curly orchid, is a species of orchid that is native to South America, specifically in Brazil, Paraguay, and Argentina. It is a small epiphytic orchid that produces numerous flowers that are delicately fragrant.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Asparagales |
| Family | Orchidaceae |
| Genus | Gomesa |
| Species | Gomesa Flexuosa |
Appearance
Gomesa Flexuosa has long, thin, and winding leaves that grow from a single stem. The leaves are dark green and can grow up to 30 cm long. The flowers of this orchid are small, measuring about 1 cm in diameter, and are usually pink or purple with a white and yellow center. The petals of the flowers curl up and have a waxy texture that adds to its unique appearance.
Care Guide
Watering Gomesa Flexuosa should be done regularly, but not excessively. It requires moderate watering, which means that the soil should be moist but not waterlogged. Fertilization should be done every two weeks using a balanced fertilizer, but it should be diluted to half strength. The soil should be well-draining, and it should be kept moist at all times. The orchid should be placed in a spot where it can receive bright, indirect sunlight for at least six hours a day. Gomesa Flexuosa is hardy in zones 10-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Gomesa Flexuosa is susceptible to pests such as mealybugs, spider mites, and scale insects. To prevent infestations, it is essential to keep the orchid clean and free from debris. It is also essential to inspect the orchid regularly for signs of pests or diseases. Diseases that commonly affect this orchid include crown rot and leaf spot. These diseases can be prevented by ensuring that the soil is well-draining and by avoiding overwatering.
Habitat
Gomesa Flexuosa is an epiphytic orchid that grows on trees, rocks, and other surfaces in its natural habitat. It is found in humid forests and rainforests in South America, specifically in Brazil, Paraguay, and Argentina.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water Gomesa Flexuosa?
A: Gomesa Flexuosa should be watered regularly, but not excessively. Watering should be done when the soil is dry to the touch.
Q: What is the minimum temperature that Gomesa Flexuosa can tolerate?
A: Gomesa Flexuosa is hardy in zones 10-11 and can tolerate temperatures as low as 50°F.
Q: Can Gomesa Flexuosa be grown indoors?
A: Yes, Gomesa Flexuosa can be grown indoors as long as it receives bright, indirect sunlight for at least six hours a day.
Q: How often should I fertilize Gomesa Flexuosa?
A: Gomesa Flexuosa should be fertilized every two weeks using a balanced fertilizer, but it should be diluted to half strength.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Gomesa Flexuosa:
- Gomesa crispa
- Gomesa planifolia
- Gomesa recurva
- Gomesa radicans
References
- International Plant Names Index. (n.d.). Gomesa Flexuosa (Lindl.) M.W.Chase & N.H.Williams. Retrieved from http://www.ipni.org/n/20009139-2
- Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Gomesa Flexuosa. Retrieved from http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=r696
- Royal Horticultural Society. (n.d.). Gomesa Flexuosa. Retrieved from https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/171511/Gomesa-Flexuosa/Details
