Contents
Description
Acianthus Exsertus is a beautiful and unique orchid species that is native to Australia. It is commonly known as the mosquito orchid due to its small size and resemblance to a mosquito in flight. This plant produces a single, delicate flower that is white or pale pink in color with distinctive markings on the lip. The flower is held above a single leaf that grows from a short stem.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain| Eukarya||————|————-|| Kingdom| Plantae|| Phylum| Tracheophyta|| Class| Liliopsida|| Order| Asparagales || Family| Orchidaceae || Genus| Acianthus|| Species| Exsertus|
Appearance
Acianthus Exsertus is a small orchid that typically grows to a height of 10-20cm. It has a single leaf that is oval in shape and grows to a length of 10-15cm. The leaf is dark green in color with prominent veins. The flower is held above the leaf on a slender stem and is approximately 1cm in diameter. The petals and sepals are white or pale pink in color with reddish-brown markings, while the lip is white with purple markings.
Care Guide
Acianthus Exsertus is a relatively easy plant to care for, but it does require specific conditions to thrive. Here are some care tips:- Water: This plant prefers moist soil, but it should not be waterlogged. Water it once a week or when the soil feels dry to the touch.- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.- Soil: Use a well-draining potting mix that contains sphagnum moss and perlite.- Sunlight: This plant prefers bright, indirect light, but it should be protected from direct sunlight.- Hardiness Zones: Acianthus Exsertus is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Acianthus Exsertus is relatively resistant to pests and diseases, but it can be susceptible to root rot if overwatered. Here are some common pests and diseases to watch out for:- Slugs and snails: These pests can damage the leaves and flowers of the plant. Use slug and snail bait to control them.- Spider mites: These pests can cause discoloration and stunted growth. Use insecticidal soap to control them.- Root rot: This disease can occur if the plant is overwatered or if the soil does not drain well. To prevent root rot, use well-draining soil and avoid overwatering.
Habitat
Acianthus Exsertus is native to Australia and is found in a variety of habitats, including open forests, heathlands, and grasslands. It prefers well-draining soils and partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water my Acianthus Exsertus?
A: Water your plant once a week or when the soil feels dry to the touch.
Q: What type of soil should I use for my Acianthus Exsertus?
A: Use a well-draining potting mix that contains sphagnum moss and perlite.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Acianthus Exsertus?
A: Acianthus Exsertus is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Q: Is Acianthus Exsertus susceptible to any pests or diseases?
A: Acianthus Exsertus can be susceptible to root rot if overwatered.
Related Plants
– Acianthus fornicatus- Acianthus caudatus- Acianthus pusillus
References
– Australian Native Plants Society (Australia). (2010). Acianthus Exsertus. Retrieved from https://anpsa.org.au/a-exc.html- Orchids Online Australia. (n.d.). Acianthus Exsertus. Retrieved from https://www.orchidsonline.com.au/acianthus-exsertus/
