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Description
Spiranthes Lacera Var. Lacera, also known as the Slender Ladies’-tresses, is a species of orchid native to North America. It is a perennial herb that grows up to 40 cm tall and produces a single, thin stem with several basal leaves. The flowers are white, fragrant, and arranged in a spiral along the stem, blooming from August to October.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Magnoliophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Asparagales |
| Family | Orchidaceae |
| Genus | Spiranthes |
| Species | Spiranthes Lacera |
| Variety | Spiranthes Lacera Var. Lacera |
Appearance
The Slender Ladies’-tresses has a slender stem that can grow up to 40 cm tall. The stem is green and has several basal leaves that are lance-shaped and up to 15 cm long. The flowers are white, fragrant, and arranged in a spiral along the stem. They are about 1 cm long and have a lip that is divided into three lobes. The flowers bloom from August to October and are pollinated by moths.
Care Guide
The Slender Ladies’-tresses prefers moist, well-drained soil and partial to full sun. It can tolerate a wide range of soil types, but prefers acidic soil. The plant should be watered regularly, but not overwatered, as it is susceptible to root rot. Fertilization is not necessary, but a light application of a balanced fertilizer can be applied in the spring. The plant is hardy in USDA zones 4-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Slender Ladies’-tresses is not usually affected by pests or diseases. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if overwatered. To prevent root rot, make sure the soil is well-drained and do not overwater the plant.
Habitat
The Slender Ladies’-tresses is found in wet meadows, bogs, and fens in North America, from Newfoundland to Florida and west to Texas and Minnesota. It prefers open, sunny areas with moist soil.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the Slender Ladies’-tresses a rare plant?
A: The Slender Ladies’-tresses is not considered a rare plant, but it is listed as threatened or endangered in some states.
Q: Can the Slender Ladies’-tresses be grown indoors?
A: The Slender Ladies’-tresses is not an ideal plant for indoor cultivation, as it prefers partial to full sun and moist soil.
Q: How can I propagate the Slender Ladies’-tresses?
A: The Slender Ladies’-tresses can be propagated by dividing the rhizomes in the spring or fall.
Q: Can the Slender Ladies’-tresses be used for medicinal purposes?
A: There is no evidence to suggest that the Slender Ladies’-tresses has any medicinal properties.
Related Plants
- Spiranthes Cernua
- Spiranthes Gracilis
- Spiranthes Romanzoffiana
References
- USDA Plants Database. Spiranthes Lacera Var. Lacera. Retrieved from https://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=SPILL
- Illinois Wildflowers. Spiranthes Lacera. Retrieved from https://www.illinoiswildflowers.info/grasses/plants/sl_lacera.html
- Missouri Botanical Garden. Spiranthes Lacera Var. Lacera. Retrieved from http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b323
