Contents
Description
Satyrium is a genus of orchids containing about 40 species, with the majority found in southern Africa. These orchids are found in various habitats, including woodlands, grasslands, and rocky areas. Some species are terrestrial, while others are epiphytic or lithophytic. The plants have pseudobulbs that are either cylindrical or oval-shaped, with one or two leaves growing from the top of each pseudobulb. The flowers are small, generally less than 2 cm in diameter, and occur in spikes or racemes. The colors vary from white to pink, purple, or yellow, and some species have a pleasant fragrance.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Asparagales |
| Family | Orchidaceae |
| Genus | Satyrium |
Appearance
The plants of Satyrium have pseudobulbs that vary in size and shape, depending on the species. The pseudobulbs are generally cylindrical or oval-shaped, and can be up to 30 cm in length. The leaves grow from the top of each pseudobulb, and are either lance-shaped or elliptical. The flowers are small, generally less than 2 cm in diameter, and occur in spikes or racemes. The colors vary from white to pink, purple, or yellow, and some species have a pleasant fragrance.
Care Guide
Satyrium orchids are easy to grow and care for. They require moderate watering, and the soil should be kept slightly moist but not waterlogged. Fertilize the plants regularly during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. The plants prefer well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. Satyrium orchids can tolerate partial shade, but they do best in bright, indirect sunlight. They are hardy to USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The most common pests and diseases that affect Satyrium orchids are spider mites, scale insects, and fungal diseases such as root rot. Spider mites and scale insects can be controlled with insecticides, while fungal diseases can be prevented by ensuring good air circulation and not overwatering the plants.
Habitat
Satyrium orchids are found in various habitats across the world, including southern Africa, Madagascar, and Asia. They are found in woodlands, grasslands, and rocky areas. Some species are terrestrial, while others are epiphytic or lithophytic.
Question and Answer
Q: Are Satyrium orchids fragrant?
A: Yes, some species of Satyrium orchids have a pleasant fragrance.
Q: What is the ideal sunlight for Satyrium orchids?
A: Satyrium orchids prefer bright, indirect sunlight.
Q: How often should I water Satyrium orchids?
A: Satyrium orchids require moderate watering, and the soil should be kept slightly moist but not waterlogged.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Satyrium orchids?
A: Satyrium orchids are hardy to USDA zones 9-11.
Related Plants
- Oeceoclades maculata
- Oncidium
- Phalaenopsis
- Vanda
References
- https://www.orchidspecies.com/satyrium.htm
- https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/13056/Satyrium-lunatum/Details
- https://www.sarcochilus.net.au/satyrium.html
