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Description
Prosthechea Vespa is a species of orchid native to Central America, including Costa Rica, Panama, and Nicaragua. It was first described in 1976 by American botanist Robert Louis Dressler. It is commonly known as the Vespa Orchid due to its unique flower shape, which resembles a wasp or hornet.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Asparagales |
| Family | Orchidaceae |
| Genus | Prosthechea |
| Species | Vespa |
Appearance
The Vespa Orchid is a medium-sized epiphyte with pseudobulbs that can grow up to 30 cm tall. The leaves are long and narrow, up to 30 cm in length, and deep green in color. The flowers are the most striking feature of this orchid, with a unique shape that resembles a wasp or hornet. The flowers are about 5 cm in length and can be various shades of yellow, green, and brown. The lip of the flower is usually a dark maroon color and has several ridges and bumps that resemble the body of a wasp.
Care Guide
Prosthechea Vespa is a relatively easy orchid to care for, but it does require specific conditions to thrive. Here are some tips on how to care for this orchid:
- Water: Water the plant thoroughly once a week, allowing the potting mix to dry out slightly between waterings.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: Use a well-draining potting mix, such as a bark-based orchid mix.
- Sunlight: Place the plant in bright, indirect sunlight. Avoid direct sunlight, as it can burn the leaves.
- Hardiness Zones: Prosthechea Vespa is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Vespa Orchid is susceptible to a few common pests and diseases, including:
- Spider mites: These tiny pests can cause yellowing and curling of the leaves. Treat with insecticidal soap.
- Mealybugs: These white, cottony pests can infest the leaves and flowers. Treat with neem oil.
- Root rot: Overwatering can lead to root rot, which can cause the leaves to wilt and turn yellow. Ensure proper drainage and avoid overwatering.
Habitat
Prosthechea Vespa is native to Central America, where it grows as an epiphyte in humid forests and cloud forests. It prefers to grow on trees or rocks, where it can receive bright, indirect sunlight and plenty of moisture from the humid air.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Prosthechea Vespa a fragrant orchid?
A: No, the Vespa Orchid is not known for its fragrance.
Q: How often should I repot my Prosthechea Vespa?
A: Repotting is usually necessary every 2-3 years, or when the potting mix breaks down and becomes soggy.
Q: Can I grow Prosthechea Vespa indoors?
A: Yes, as long as you provide it with bright, indirect sunlight and enough humidity.
Q: Can I propagate Prosthechea Vespa from cuttings?
A: No, this orchid species cannot be propagated from cuttings. It is best propagated through division of the pseudobulbs.
Related Plants
- Prosthechea cochleata
- Prosthechea prismatocarpa
- Prosthechea vitellina
- Prosthechea radiata
References
- Dressler, R. L. (1976). A new genus of orchids from Middle America. Brittonia, 28(1), 76-79.
- Christenson, E. A. (2001). Phylogenetic relationships in the Oncidiinae subtribe of the Orchidaceae. University of Missouri-Columbia.
- Prosthechea Vespa. (n.d.). Retrieved May 21, 2021, from https://www.orchidspecies.com/prostvespa.htm
