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Description
Acrolophia Lamellata, also known as the African Fairy Orchid, is a rare species of orchid that is native to South Africa. It belongs to the family Orchidaceae and is known for its beautiful and fragrant flowers. The plant grows up to 60 cm tall and has a few to many basal leaves, which are lanceolate in shape and can grow up to 20 cm long. The flowers are usually pink, white or purple and have a sweet fragrance.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Asparagales |
| Family | Orchidaceae |
| Genus | Acrolophia |
Appearance
The Acrolophia Lamellata plant has a tall stem and can grow up to 60cm in height. It has a few to many basal leaves that are lanceolate in shape and can grow up to 20cm long. The flowers are usually pink, white or purple and have a sweet fragrance. The petals are broad and the sepals are narrow. The lip is a large, showy structure with two lobes that are fringed and ruffled.
Care Guide
Water: The Acrolophia Lamellata plant prefers moist soil, but not waterlogged. Water the plant once a week, or when the top inch of soil is dry.
Fertilization: Feed the plant with a balanced orchid fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
Soil: Use a well-draining orchid mix or sphagnum moss as a growing medium.
Sunlight: The plant prefers bright, indirect sunlight. Avoid direct sunlight as it can burn the leaves.
Hardiness Zones: Acrolophia Lamellata is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Acrolophia Lamellata plant is susceptible to mealybugs, spider mites, and scale insects. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Overwatering can lead to root rot, while underwatering can cause the leaves to dry out.
Habitat
The Acrolophia Lamellata plant is native to South Africa, where it grows in grasslands, savannas, and woodlands. It prefers well-draining soil and partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water my Acrolophia Lamellata plant?
A: You should water your plant once a week or when the top inch of soil is dry.
Q: What kind of soil should I use for my Acrolophia Lamellata plant?
A: Use a well-draining orchid mix or sphagnum moss as a growing medium.
Q: What pests and diseases should I watch out for in my Acrolophia Lamellata plant?
A: The plant is susceptible to mealybugs, spider mites, and scale insects. Overwatering can lead to root rot, while underwatering can cause the leaves to dry out.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Acrolophia Lamellata?
A: Acrolophia Lamellata is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Related Plants
- Acrolophia Uitenhagensis
- Acrolophia Capensis
- Acrolophia Cochlearis
- Acrolophia Lunata
References
- Acrolophia Lamellata. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.africanorchids.dk/acrolophia-lamellata/
- Acrolophia Lamellata. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://orchidroots.org/orchids/acrolophia-lamellata/
- Acrolophia Lamellata. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.orchidspecies.com/acrolophialamellata.htm
