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Description
Anoectochilus Formosanus, also known as the jewel orchid, is a stunning plant that is prized for its unique foliage. This orchid is native to Taiwan and can be found growing in the dense forests of the island. The leaves of the Anoectochilus Formosanus are velvety and oval-shaped, with a dark green color and striking silver veins that give them a metallic shine. The underside of the leaves is often a deep purple color, adding to the plant’s beauty.Anoectochilus Formosanus is a terrestrial orchid, meaning it grows on the forest floor rather than on trees like many other orchids. It produces small, delicate flowers that are usually green or brown in color and are not as showy as the plant’s foliage.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain| Eukaryota || Kingdom| Plantae|| Phylum| Tracheophyta || Class| Magnoliopsida || Order| Asparagales || Family| Orchidaceae || Genus| Anoectochilus || Species| Formosanus |
Appearance
The Anoectochilus Formosanus plant can grow up to 12 inches in height and width. The leaves are oval-shaped, velvety, and can grow up to 4 inches in length. The dark green leaves have silver veins that give them a metallic shine, and the underside of the leaves is often a deep purple color. The plant produces small, delicate flowers that are usually green or brown in color and are not as showy as the plant’s foliage.
Care Guide
Anoectochilus Formosanus is a relatively easy plant to care for. Here are some tips to help you keep your plant healthy and thriving:Water: Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season (spring and summer) with a balanced fertilizer.Soil: Anoectochilus Formosanus prefers a well-draining soil mix that is rich in organic matter.Sunlight: This plant prefers bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sunlight, as it can scorch the leaves.Hardiness Zones: Anoectochilus Formosanus is hardy in zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Anoectochilus Formosanus is relatively pest and disease-free. However, here are some potential issues to watch out for:Pests: Spider mites and mealybugs can occasionally infest the plant. Treat infestations with insecticidal soap.Diseases: Overwatering can lead to root rot. Make sure the soil is well-draining and allow the top inch of soil to dry out before watering again.
Habitat
Anoectochilus Formosanus is native to Taiwan and can be found growing in the dense forests of the island. It is a terrestrial orchid, meaning it grows on the forest floor rather than on trees like many other orchids.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Anoectochilus Formosanus be grown in a terrarium?
A: Yes, Anoectochilus Formosanus can be grown in a terrarium as long as it has adequate ventilation.Q: How often should I fertilize my Anoectochilus Formosanus?
A: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season (spring and summer) with a balanced fertilizer.Q: Can Anoectochilus Formosanus be grown outdoors in colder climates?
A: No, Anoectochilus Formosanus is hardy in zones 9-11 and should not be grown outdoors in colder climates.Q: How often should I water my Anoectochilus Formosanus?
A: Water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Anoectochilus Formosanus:- Anoectochilus chapaensis- Anoectochilus roxburghii- Ludisia discolor (jewel orchid)- Goodyera pubescens (rattlesnake plantain)
References
– “Anoectochilus Formosanus.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed November 24, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=287756.- “Jewel Orchids (Ludisia, Anoectochilus, Macodes, Haemaria).” American Orchid Society. Accessed November 24, 2021. https://www.aos.org/orchids/culture-sheets/jewel-orchids-ludisia-anoectochilus-macodes-haemaria.aspx.
