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Description
Platanthera unalascensis, commonly known as the Alaska rein orchid, is a perennial plant species that belongs to the Orchidaceae family. This plant species is found throughout Alaska, the Aleutian Islands, and Siberia. It is a terrestrial plant that grows up to 40 cm tall and produces white, fragrant flowers during the summer months. The flowers have a spur that extends backward from the lip and a prominent labellum. The leaves are basal and widely spaced, with a single stalk bearing 3-9 flowers.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Asparagales |
| Family | Orchidaceae |
| Genus | Platanthera |
Appearance
Platanthera unalascensis has a unique and distinct appearance. It produces basal leaves that are long and narrow, measuring around 15 cm in length. The leaves are dark green in color and are arranged in a rosette. The stem is tall and slender, measuring up to 40 cm in height. The flowers are white and have a spur that extends backward from the lip. The labellum is prominent and often has a yellow or greenish hue. The flowers are fragrant and bloom during the summer months.
Care Guide
Platanthera unalascensis is an easy plant to care for. Here are some important care tips:Water: The plant requires regular watering during the growing season. Make sure the soil is moist but not waterlogged.Fertilization: The plant does not require much fertilization. Apply a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.Soil: The plant requires well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. Use a soil mix that contains peat moss and perlite.Sunlight: The plant prefers partial shade but can tolerate full sun.Hardiness Zones: Platanthera unalascensis is hardy in USDA zones 1-7.
Common Pests & Diseases
Platanthera unalascensis is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it can be susceptible to fungal infections if the soil is too moist. The plant may also be affected by mites and aphids. In case of infestation, use a mild insecticide or fungicide to treat the plant.
Habitat
Platanthera unalascensis is native to Alaska, the Aleutian Islands, and Siberia. It grows in a variety of habitats, including meadows, bogs, and moist tundra. The plant prefers cool temperatures and partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Platanthera unalascensis an endangered species?A: No, Platanthera unalascensis is not considered an endangered species.Q: Can Platanthera unalascensis be grown indoors?A: No, Platanthera unalascensis is a terrestrial plant and requires outdoor growing conditions.Q: How often should Platanthera unalascensis be fertilized?A: Apply a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.Q: Can Platanthera unalascensis be propagated by division?A: Yes, Platanthera unalascensis can be propagated by division in the spring or fall.
Related Plants
Other orchid species that are related to Platanthera unalascensis include:
- Platanthera dilatata
- Platanthera hyperborea
- Platanthera integrilabia
- Platanthera obtusata
References
- Alaska Natural Heritage Program. 2010. Platanthera unalascensis (L.) Lindl. Alaska Natural Heritage Program, Anchorage, AK.
- Flora of North America Editorial Committee, eds. 2002. Flora of North America North of Mexico, Volume 26: Magnoliophyta: Liliidae: Liliales and Orchidales. Oxford University Press, New York, NY.
- Natural Resources Conservation Service. 2021. Plants Database. Platanthera unalascensis (L.) Lindl. Retrieved from https://plants.usda.gov/home/plantProfile?symbol=PLUN
