Contents
Description
Pterygodium Cooperi is a species of orchid that is native to South Africa. It is a terrestrial orchid that grows in rocky outcrops and in the grasslands of the Eastern Cape and KwaZulu-Natal province. The plant is named after Robert Allen Rolfe Cooper, a British botanist who explored the flora of Africa. It is a small plant that grows up to 20 cm tall and has 1-3 basal leaves. The flowers are greenish-yellow to yellow-brown and are arranged in a dense, spike-like inflorescence. The plant blooms in late spring to summer.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Asparagales |
| Family | Orchidaceae |
| Genus | Pterygodium |
Appearance
The plant has 1-3 basal leaves that are lance-shaped, and can grow up to 20 cm tall. The flowers are greenish-yellow to yellow-brown and are arranged in a dense, spike-like inflorescence. The sepals and petals are similar in size and shape, and the lip is 3-lobed with the mid-lobe being the largest. The flowers have a faint, sweet scent.
Care Guide
Water: Pterygodium Cooperi prefers to be kept moist but not waterlogged. Water the plant when the top layer of soil feels dry.
Fertilization: Feed the plant with a balanced fertilizer during active growth, and reduce feeding during the dormant season.
Soil: Plant Pterygodium Cooperi in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
Sunlight: The plant prefers bright, filtered light or partial shade.
Hardiness Zones: Pterygodium Cooperi is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The plant is susceptible to spider mites and mealybugs. It can also be affected by fungal diseases like root rot and leaf spot. Ensure proper watering and good air circulation to prevent these issues.
Habitat
Pterygodium Cooperi is native to the Eastern Cape and KwaZulu-Natal province in South Africa. It grows in rocky outcrops and in the grasslands of the region.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Pterygodium Cooperi difficult to grow?
A: Pterygodium Cooperi is not difficult to grow as long as it is provided with the right growing conditions.
Q: Does Pterygodium Cooperi require a lot of sunlight?
A: Pterygodium Cooperi prefers bright, filtered light or partial shade.
Q: What type of soil is best for Pterygodium Cooperi?
A: Pterygodium Cooperi prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
Q: How often should Pterygodium Cooperi be watered?
A: Water Pterygodium Cooperi when the top layer of soil feels dry.
Related Plants
- Pterygodium schelpei
- Pterygodium volucris
- Pterygodium magnum
- Pterygodium parishii
References
- Orchids of South Africa by J. Stewart, S. H. J. Vlok, and A. R. Smith
- https://www.sarcorchid.co.za/pterygodium-cooperi/
- https://www.orchidspecies.com/pterycooperi.htm
