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Description
Govenia Dressleriana is a rare orchid species that belongs to the Orchidaceae family. It was first discovered in Panama and later found in Costa Rica. This orchid is named after Robert Dressler, an American botanist who contributed greatly to the study of orchids. Govenia Dressleriana is a terrestrial orchid that has a unique growth habit, which makes it stand out among other orchids. It produces clusters of flowers that bloom in the summer months, making it a delightful addition to any garden or indoor space.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Asparagales |
| Family | Orchidaceae |
| Genus | Govenia |
Appearance
Govenia Dressleriana is a terrestrial orchid that grows up to 50 cm tall. It has a unique growth habit with a pseudobulb that is partially buried in the soil. The leaves of this orchid are up to 25 cm long and 3 cm wide, and they grow in a fan-like shape. The flowers of Govenia Dressleriana are yellowish-green with a white lip and red streaks. The flowers are small, measuring only 1.5 cm in diameter, and they grow in clusters of up to 10 flowers.
Care Guide
Govenia Dressleriana is a relatively easy orchid to care for. Here is a care guide for this plant:
- Water: Water this orchid once a week, making sure that the soil is moist but not waterlogged.
- Fertilization: Fertilize this orchid every two weeks during the growing season with a balanced orchid fertilizer.
- Soil: Use a well-draining soil mix, such as a mixture of bark, perlite, and peat moss.
- Sunlight: Govenia Dressleriana prefers bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sunlight, as it can burn the leaves and flowers.
- Hardiness Zones: This orchid grows well in hardiness zones 10-12.
Common Pests & Diseases
Govenia Dressleriana can be susceptible to pests and diseases, including:
- Spider Mites: These pests can cause discoloration of the leaves and can be controlled with insecticidal soap.
- Mealybugs: These pests can cause damage to the flowers and can be controlled with neem oil.
- Crown Rot: This disease can be caused by overwatering and can be prevented by allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
- Leaf Spot: This disease is caused by fungal infections and can be prevented by keeping the leaves dry and increasing air circulation.
Habitat
Govenia Dressleriana is found in the rainforests of Panama and Costa Rica. It grows on the forest floor, often in shaded areas with high humidity. This orchid can also be found growing on rocks and tree trunks.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water Govenia Dressleriana?
A: Water this orchid once a week, making sure that the soil is moist but not waterlogged.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Govenia Dressleriana?
A: This orchid grows well in hardiness zones 10-12.
Q: What kind of soil does Govenia Dressleriana prefer?
A: Use a well-draining soil mix, such as a mixture of bark, perlite, and peat moss.
Q: What are the common pests and diseases that affect Govenia Dressleriana?
A: Govenia Dressleriana can be susceptible to spider mites, mealybugs, crown rot, and leaf spot.
Related Plants
- Govenia Liliacea
- Govenia Superba
- Govenia Utleyorum
References
- Orchids of the World by Alec Pridgeon
- The Complete Book of Orchid Growing by John H. Harrison
- https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/8912/govenia-dressleriana/details
