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Description
Platanthera Keenanii, commonly known as Keenan’s bog orchid, is a rare species of orchid found in the western United States. The orchid has a single stem that can grow up to 30 cm tall and bears up to 20 flowers in a single inflorescence. The flowers are white with green veins and have a sweet fragrance that attracts pollinators. Platanthera Keenanii blooms from late June to early August.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Magnoliophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Asparagales |
| Family | Orchidaceae |
| Genus | Platanthera |
| Species | Keenanii |
Appearance
Platanthera Keenanii has a single stem that can grow up to 30 cm tall. The stem is green and has lance-shaped leaves that are up to 15 cm long. The inflorescence can bear up to 20 flowers that are white with green veins. The flowers have a sweet fragrance that attracts pollinators. The lip of the flower is spoon-shaped and has a greenish-yellow color. The flower also has a spur that is longer than the ovary.
Care Guide
Platanthera Keenanii requires moist soil and partial shade. The orchid should be watered consistently to keep the soil moist, but not waterlogged. The orchid should be fertilized every two weeks during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. The orchid should be grown in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. Platanthera Keenanii is hardy in USDA zones 6 to 8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Platanthera Keenanii is susceptible to spider mites, aphids, and thrips. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. The orchid is also susceptible to fungal diseases such as root rot and leaf spot. These diseases can be prevented by ensuring that the orchid is grown in well-draining soil and is not overwatered.
Habitat
Platanthera Keenanii is found in wetlands, bogs, and meadows in the western United States. The orchid prefers moist soil and partial shade. The orchid is native to the states of Idaho, Montana, Oregon, and Washington.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Platanthera Keenanii a rare orchid?
A: Yes, Platanthera Keenanii is a rare species of orchid found in the western United States.
Q: What is the blooming period of Platanthera Keenanii?
A: Platanthera Keenanii blooms from late June to early August.
Q: What pests and diseases are common in Platanthera Keenanii?
A: Platanthera Keenanii is susceptible to spider mites, aphids, thrips, root rot, and leaf spot.
Q: What is the preferred habitat of Platanthera Keenanii?
A: Platanthera Keenanii is found in wetlands, bogs, and meadows in the western United States.
Related Plants
- Platanthera dilatata
- Platanthera hyperborea
- Platanthera stricta
References
- USDA Plants Database. (n.d.). Platanthera Keenanii. Retrieved from https://plants.usda.gov/home/plantProfile?symbol=plke
- Mosquin, T., & Kershaw, L. (2000). Plants of Northern British Columbia. UBC Press.
- Sheviak, C. J. (1981). Platanthera Keenanii, a new species of orchid from western North America. Canadian Journal of Botany, 59(6), 1104-1108.
