Stanhopea is a genus of orchids that is native to tropical America. These plants are known for their beautiful and fragrant flowers that bloom in the summer months. There are over 60 species of Stanhopea, which are found in a variety of habitats, including rainforests, cloud forests, and montane forests.
Contents
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Asparagales |
| Family | Orchidaceae |
| Genus | Stanhopea |
Appearance
Stanhopea plants are epiphytic orchids that grow on trees or rocks. They have long, thin pseudobulbs that can grow up to several feet long. The leaves are leathery and dark green, and can grow up to 2 feet long. Stanhopea plants produce beautiful and fragrant flowers that can be up to 6 inches in diameter. The flowers are typically white, yellow, or orange, with a lip that is often marked with spots or stripes.
Care Guide
Stanhopea plants require specific care to thrive. Here are some tips for caring for your Stanhopea:
- Water: These plants require regular watering, but do not like to be waterlogged. Water them once a week, and make sure the soil is well-draining.
- Fertilization: Use a balanced orchid fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
- Soil: Stanhopea plants prefer a well-draining orchid mix, such as a mixture of bark, sphagnum moss, and perlite.
- Sunlight: These plants prefer bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sunlight, as it can burn their leaves.
- Hardiness Zones: Stanhopea plants are not hardy, and should be grown indoors or in a greenhouse in zones below 10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Stanhopea plants are susceptible to a few common pests and diseases, including:
- Spider mites: These pests can cause leaves to turn yellow and fall off. Treat with a miticide.
- Scale insects: These pests can cause leaves to turn yellow and die. Treat with insecticidal soap.
- Root rot: Overwatering can cause root rot. Make sure the soil is well-draining to avoid this issue.
Habitat
Stanhopea plants are native to tropical America, and can be found in a variety of habitats, including rainforests, cloud forests, and montane forests. They grow on trees and rocks, and require high humidity and warm temperatures to thrive.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Stanhopea plants be grown outdoors?
A: Stanhopea plants are not hardy, and should be grown indoors or in a greenhouse in zones below 10.
Q: How often should I water my Stanhopea plant?
A: Water your Stanhopea plant once a week, and make sure the soil is well-draining.
Q: How do I fertilize my Stanhopea plant?
A: Use a balanced orchid fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
Q: What should I do if my Stanhopea plant gets spider mites?
A: Treat spider mites with a miticide.
Related Plants
- Cattleya
- Dendrobium
- Laelia
- Oncidium
- Phalaenopsis
References
- Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Stanhopea. Retrieved from http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/
- Royal Horticultural Society. (n.d.). Stanhopea. Retrieved from https://www.rhs.org.uk/
- Orchids.org. (n.d.). Stanhopea. Retrieved from https://www.orchids.org/
