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Description
Orchis Purpurea is a species of orchid that belongs to the Orchidaceae family. It is commonly known as the Lady Orchid or the Purple Orchid. It is native to Europe and can be found in various habitats such as grasslands, meadows, and woodlands. The orchid has a unique and intricate structure that makes it a popular choice among orchid enthusiasts. It is a perennial plant that grows up to 30 cm in height.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Asparagales |
| Family | Orchidaceae |
| Genus | Orchis |
Appearance
The Lady Orchid has a unique and intricate structure that makes it stand out among other orchids. Its flowers are pink, purple, or white in color and are arranged in a spike-like cluster. The orchid has two large, oval-shaped leaves that are dark green in color and have a smooth texture. The stem of the orchid is thin and covered in small hairs. The flowers of the orchid are fragrant and attract bees and butterflies.
Care Guide
Orchis Purpurea is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips on how to care for your Lady Orchid:- Water: Water the orchid once a week, making sure not to overwater it. Allow the soil to dry slightly between waterings.- Fertilization: Fertilize the orchid once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.- Soil: The orchid prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.- Sunlight: The orchid prefers partial shade and should be placed in a location that receives indirect sunlight.- Hardiness Zones: Orchis Purpurea is hardy in zones 4-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Lady Orchid is relatively resistant to pests and diseases. However, here are some common issues that you may encounter:- Spider mites: These tiny pests can cause damage to the leaves of the orchid. Use a miticide to get rid of them.- Aphids: These pests can suck the sap from the orchid, causing it to weaken. Use an insecticidal soap to get rid of them.- Root rot: Overwatering can cause the roots of the orchid to rot. Make sure to allow the soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Habitat
Orchis Purpurea is native to Europe and can be found in various habitats such as grasslands, meadows, and woodlands. It prefers well-draining soil and partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Orchis Purpurea be grown indoors?
A: Yes, the orchid can be grown indoors as long as it is placed in a location that receives indirect sunlight.
Q: How often should I fertilize my Lady Orchid?
A: Fertilize the orchid once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: Does the Lady Orchid attract bees and butterflies?
A: Yes, the fragrant flowers of the orchid attract bees and butterflies.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Orchis Purpurea?
A: The orchid is hardy in zones 4-9.
Related Plants
– Orchis Mascula- Orchis Italica- Orchis Simia- Orchis Morio
References
– Huxley, A., ed. (1992). New RHS Dictionary of Gardening. Macmillan.- “Orchis Purpurea”. Royal Horticultural Society. Retrieved 2021-02-14.- “Orchis Purpurea”. Missouri Botanical Garden. Retrieved 2021-02-14.
