Contents
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Magnoliophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Orchidales |
| Family | Orchidaceae |
| Genus | Orchis |
Appearance
Orchis Anatolica is a small, terrestrial orchid that grows up to 20-30 cm tall. It has two basal leaves that are oval or ovate in shape, with a length of 4-10 cm and a width of 2-4 cm. The leaves are dark green in color and have a slightly hairy texture. The stem of the plant is slender and bears a spike of 6-20 flowers. The flowers are pink or purple in color and have a diameter of 1-2 cm. They have three sepals and three petals, with the two upper petals forming a hood over the column. The lip of the flower is three-lobed and has a yellow or white spot at the base.
Care Guide
Water: Orchis Anatolica prefers to be kept in a moist but well-drained soil. Water the plant regularly during the growing season, but reduce watering during the dormant period.
Fertilization: Feed the plant with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
Soil: The plant prefers a well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. Use a mix of peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite.
Sunlight: Orchis Anatolica prefers partial shade to full shade. Avoid exposing the plant to direct sunlight.
Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 6-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Common pests that can affect Orchis Anatolica include aphids, spider mites, and mealybugs. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. The plant is susceptible to fungal diseases such as root rot and powdery mildew. These can be prevented by ensuring good air circulation around the plant and avoiding overwatering.
Habitat
Orchis Anatolica is native to Turkey and can be found growing in open woodlands and meadows at elevations of 500-2000 meters. The plant prefers calcareous soils and is commonly found growing in association with other orchid species.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Orchis Anatolica be grown indoors?
A: While it is possible to grow the plant indoors, it is best suited for outdoor cultivation.
Q: How often should Orchis Anatolica be repotted?
A: The plant should be repotted every 2-3 years, or when it outgrows its current pot.
Q: Can Orchis Anatolica be propagated from seed?
A: Yes, the plant can be propagated from seed. However, it may take several years for the plant to reach maturity.
Q: Is Orchis Anatolica a fragrant plant?
A: No, the plant does not have a noticeable fragrance.
Related Plants
- Orchis italica
- Orchis morio
- Orchis militaris
- Orchis mascula
References
- Orchids of Europe, North Africa and the Middle East by Pierre Delforge
- The Royal Horticultural Society Encyclopedia of Orchids by Alec Pridgeon
- https://www.gardenia.net/plant-variety/orchis-anatolica
- https://www.orchidspecies.com/orchanatolica.htm
