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Description
Thelymitra Tholiformis, also known as the Spiral Sun Orchid, is a small terrestrial orchid that is native to Australia. This beautiful plant can be found growing in sandy or gravelly soils in open forests, woodlands, and heathlands. It is a winter flowering orchid that typically blooms from June to August, producing a solitary flower on a long, slender stem.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Magnoliophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Asparagales |
| Family | Orchidaceae |
| Genus | Thelymitra |
Appearance
Thelymitra Tholiformis has a single, spiraling leaf that grows up to 20 cm in length. The leaf is narrow and grass-like, with a bluish-green color. The flowers are typically 3-5 cm in diameter and range in color from light blue to violet, with a yellow or white center. The lip of the flower is fringed and has a distinctive, fan-like shape.
Care Guide
To care for Thelymitra Tholiformis, it is important to provide it with well-draining soil and moderate sunlight. This orchid prefers to be kept moist but not waterlogged, so it is important to water it regularly but not excessively. Fertilization should be done sparingly, as this plant is not a heavy feeder.This orchid is hardy in USDA hardiness zones 9-11, meaning it can tolerate temperatures as low as 20°F (-6°C). In colder climates, it is recommended to grow this plant in a greenhouse or indoors.
Common Pests & Diseases
Thelymitra Tholiformis is relatively pest and disease-free, but it can be susceptible to root rot if overwatered. To avoid this, it is important to ensure the soil is well-draining and not waterlogged. Additionally, this orchid can be affected by spider mites, which can be treated with a mild insecticide or by washing the plant with soapy water.
Habitat
Thelymitra Tholiformis is found in open forests, woodlands, and heathlands in Australia. It prefers sandy or gravelly soils and is typically found at elevations up to 1000 meters.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water Thelymitra Tholiformis?
A: This orchid prefers to be kept moist but not waterlogged, so it is important to water it regularly but not excessively.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Thelymitra Tholiformis?
A: This orchid is hardy in USDA hardiness zones 9-11, meaning it can tolerate temperatures as low as 20°F (-6°C).
Q: How tall does Thelymitra Tholiformis grow?
A: Thelymitra Tholiformis typically grows up to 20 cm in height.
Q: Can Thelymitra Tholiformis be grown indoors?
A: Yes, Thelymitra Tholiformis can be grown indoors, especially in colder climates where it is not hardy.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants in the Thelymitra genus:
- Thelymitra Antennifera
- Thelymitra Flexuosa
- Thelymitra Macrophylla
- Thelymitra Pauciflora
References
- “Thelymitra Tholiformis – Spiral Sun Orchid.” Australian Native Plants Society (Australia), https://anpsa.org.au/t-tho.html.
- “Thelymitra Tholiformis.” Royal Botanic Garden Sydney, https://www.rbgsyd.nsw.gov.au/plants/plant-families/orchidaceae/thelymitra/thelymitra-tholiformis.
- “Thelymitra Tholiformis.” World Checklist of Selected Plant Families, https://wcsp.science.kew.org/namedetail.do?name_id=200375.
