Contents
Description
Platanthera Huronensis, also known as Huron Green Orchid, is a perennial herbaceous plant in the orchid family (Orchidaceae). It is native to North America, specifically in the Great Lakes region and northeastern United States. The plant has a single stem that grows up to 60 cm tall and produces a spike of greenish-yellow flowers. The flowers have a distinctive shape, with a long spur extending from the back of the lip. It blooms from late June to early August and attracts various pollinators, including moths and bees.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Asparagales |
| Family | Orchidaceae |
| Genus | Platanthera |
Appearance
Platanthera Huronensis has a single stem that grows up to 60 cm tall. The stem is slender, green, and has a few scattered leaves. The leaves are lance-shaped and grow up to 15 cm long. The plant produces a spike of greenish-yellow flowers that have a distinctive shape. The flowers have a long spur extending from the back of the lip and grow up to 2 cm long. The flowers are fragrant and bloom from late June to early August. The plant’s roots are fibrous and form a dense mat.
Care Guide
Platanthera Huronensis prefers moist, well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It grows best in partial to full shade and requires regular watering to keep the soil moist. Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season. The plant is hardy in USDA zones 4 to 9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Platanthera Huronensis is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it may be susceptible to fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and root rot. To prevent these diseases, ensure that the plant has good air circulation and proper drainage.
Habitat
Platanthera Huronensis is native to North America, specifically in the Great Lakes region and northeastern United States. It grows in wet meadows, swamps, and wooded areas with moist soil.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Platanthera Huronensis a threatened species?
A: Yes, Platanthera Huronensis is listed as a threatened species in some states, including New York and Michigan.
Q: How can I propagate Platanthera Huronensis?
A: Platanthera Huronensis can be propagated by dividing the rhizomes in the fall or early spring.
Q: Can Platanthera Huronensis grow in full sun?
A: Platanthera Huronensis prefers partial to full shade and may not thrive in full sun.
Q: How often should I water Platanthera Huronensis?
A: Platanthera Huronensis requires regular watering to keep the soil moist. Water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry.
Related Plants
- Platanthera bifolia (Lesser Butterfly-orchid)
- Platanthera grandiflora (Large Purple Fringed Orchid)
- Platanthera lacera (Green Fringed Orchid)
- Platanthera leucophaea (Eastern Prairie White Fringed Orchid)
References
- Bailey, L. H., & Bailey, E. Z. (1976). Hortus Third: A Concise Dictionary of Plants Cultivated in the United States and Canada. Macmillan Publishing Co., Inc.
- USDA Plants Database. (n.d.). Platanthera huronensis. Retrieved July 12, 2021, from https://plants.usda.gov/home/plantProfile?symbol=PLHU
- Wildflower.org. (n.d.). Platanthera huronensis. Retrieved July 12, 2021, from https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=plhu
