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Description
Otochilus is a genus of orchids that consists of about 30 species. These plants are native to Southeast Asia and the Pacific Islands. The name Otochilus is derived from the Greek words “oto” meaning ear and “cheilos” meaning lip, referring to the shape of their flowers.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Asparagales |
| Family | Orchidaceae |
| Genus | Otochilus |
Appearance
Otochilus plants are known for their unique flowers that resemble a pair of ears. The flowers are small and grow in clusters on a long stem. The petals and sepals are usually green or brown, while the lip of the flower is white or yellow with purple spots. The leaves of Otochilus plants are thick and leathery, and they grow in a rosette formation. The plants themselves can range in size from a few inches to a foot or more.
Care Guide
To keep your Otochilus plant healthy, consider the following care tips:- Water: Otochilus plants prefer to be kept moist but not waterlogged. Water them once a week or when the top inch of soil feels dry.- Fertilization: Use a balanced fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season.- Soil: Otochilus plants prefer a well-draining soil mix that is rich in organic matter.- Sunlight: These plants prefer bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sunlight, as it can burn the leaves.- Hardiness Zones: Otochilus plants are typically grown indoors and are not cold hardy.
Common Pests & Diseases
Otochilus plants are susceptible to a few common pests and diseases, including:- Mealybugs: These small, white insects can be found on the leaves and stems of the plant. Use insecticidal soap to get rid of them.- Scale: These insects look like small bumps on the leaves and stems. Use a horticultural oil spray to eliminate them.- Root rot: Overwatering can cause root rot, which can be fatal to the plant. Make sure to water your Otochilus plant sparingly.
Habitat
Otochilus plants are native to Southeast Asia and the Pacific Islands, where they grow in tropical forests and on rocky cliffs. They are epiphytes, meaning they grow on other plants, and they can also be found growing on rocks or in soil.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water my Otochilus plant?
A: Water your Otochilus plant once a week or when the top inch of soil feels dry.
Q: What kind of soil mix should I use for my Otochilus plant?
A: Otochilus plants prefer a well-draining soil mix that is rich in organic matter.
Q: Can Otochilus plants grow in direct sunlight?
A: No, Otochilus plants prefer bright, indirect light. Direct sunlight can burn the leaves.
Q: What are some common pests and diseases that affect Otochilus plants?
A: Mealybugs, scale, and root rot are common pests and diseases that can affect Otochilus plants.
Related Plants
– Dendrobium- Phalaenopsis- Oncidium- Cattleya
References
– “Otochilus” Flora of China, www.efloras.org/florataxon.aspx?flora_id=2&taxon_id=124197.- “Otochilus” The Plant List, www.theplantlist.org/1.1/browse/A/Orchidaceae/Otochilus/.- “Otochilus” World Checklist of Selected Plant Families, wcsp.science.kew.org/namedetail.do?name_id=142393.
