Contents
Description
Oeceoclades Calcarata is a species of orchid that belongs to the family Orchidaceae. It is native to Madagascar and can also be found in other parts of Africa. This plant is epiphytic, which means it grows on the surface of other plants, and can reach a height of up to 40 cm. It has pseudobulbs that are cylindrical in shape and covered in grayish-brown sheaths. The leaves are leathery and dark green, and the flowers are small and have a yellow-green color.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Asparagales |
| Family | Orchidaceae |
| Genus | Oeceoclades |
| Species | Calcarata |
Appearance
Oeceoclades Calcarata has pseudobulbs that can grow up to 10 cm tall and 2 cm wide. The leaves are leathery, dark green, and can grow up to 25 cm long and 4 cm wide. The flowers are small, about 1 cm across, and have a yellow-green color. The inflorescence can hold up to 20 flowers and can grow up to 60 cm tall. This plant can bloom all year round, but mainly from spring to fall.
Care Guide
Oeceoclades Calcarata is an easy plant to care for. Here are some tips on how to take care of this plant:- Water: This plant prefers to be kept moist but not soggy. Water it when the top layer of the soil is dry to the touch.- Fertilization: Use a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.- Soil: Use a well-draining potting mix that is specifically designed for orchids.- Sunlight: This plant prefers bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sunlight as it can burn the leaves.- Hardiness Zones: Oeceoclades Calcarata is hardy in USDA zones 10-12.
Common Pests & Diseases
Oeceoclades Calcarata is susceptible to common orchid pests such as spider mites, mealybugs, and scale insects. It can also be affected by fungal diseases such as root rot and leaf spots. To prevent these pests and diseases, make sure to keep the plant clean and dry, avoid overwatering, and provide good air circulation.
Habitat
Oeceoclades Calcarata is native to Madagascar and can also be found in other parts of Africa. It grows in the understory of forests, on rocks, and on the surface of other plants. It prefers a warm and humid environment and can tolerate a wide range of temperatures.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water Oeceoclades Calcarata?
A: Water this plant when the top layer of the soil is dry to the touch.
Q: What kind of fertilizer should I use for Oeceoclades Calcarata?
A: Use a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
Q: Can Oeceoclades Calcarata tolerate direct sunlight?
A: No, this plant prefers bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sunlight as it can burn the leaves.
Q: What kind of soil should I use for Oeceoclades Calcarata?
A: Use a well-draining potting mix that is specifically designed for orchids.
Related Plants
– Oeceoclades maculata- Oeceoclades roseovariegata- Oeceoclades decaryana- Oeceoclades calcarifera
References
– African Orchids Online, Oeceoclades Calcarata.- Orchid Web, Oeceoclades Calcarata.- Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, Oeceoclades Calcarata.
