Contents
Description
Calanthe Tricarinata is a beautiful orchid that is native to Southeast Asia. It belongs to the family Orchidaceae and has a unique and striking appearance. It is commonly known as the “Three-ridged Calanthe” due to the three ridges on the lip of the flower. The plant has a robust growth habit and produces large, showy flowers that bloom in the spring and summer. The flowers are fragrant and come in shades of yellow, orange, and red. The plant can reach a height of up to 60 cm and has a spread of up to 50 cm.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Asparagales |
| Family | Orchidaceae |
| Genus | Calanthe |
Appearance
The leaves of Calanthe Tricarinata are long and narrow, and can reach a length of up to 30 cm. They are dark green in color and have a glossy appearance. The flowers are large and showy, and can measure up to 6 cm across. They have three petals and three sepals, and the lip of the flower has three ridges. The flowers are held on a tall spike that can reach a height of up to 60 cm. The plant blooms in the spring and summer, and the flowers can last for several weeks.
Care Guide
Calanthe Tricarinata is a relatively easy plant to care for, but it does require some specific conditions to thrive. Here are some tips for caring for this beautiful orchid:
- Water: Water the plant regularly, but be careful not to overwater. Allow the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: Use a well-draining soil mix that is specifically formulated for orchids.
- Sunlight: Calanthe Tricarinata prefers bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sunlight, as this can scorch the leaves.
- Hardiness Zones: This plant is hardy in USDA zones 10-12.
Common Pests & Diseases
Calanthe Tricarinata is relatively resistant to pests and diseases, but it can still be affected by some common issues. Here are a few things to watch out for:
- Spider mites: These tiny pests can cause yellowing and wilting of the leaves. Treat with an insecticide or by washing the plant with a strong stream of water.
- Root rot: Overwatering can cause the roots to rot, which can lead to the death of the plant. Be sure to allow the soil to dry out between waterings.
- Fungal diseases: These can cause spots or discoloration on the leaves. Treat with a fungicide.
Habitat
Calanthe Tricarinata is native to Southeast Asia, where it grows in shaded areas in forests and on rocky slopes. It prefers well-draining soils and high humidity levels. The plant is often found growing epiphytically on trees or on rocks.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Calanthe Tricarinata be grown indoors?
A: Yes, this plant can be grown indoors as long as it is provided with bright, indirect light and high humidity levels.
Q: How often should I fertilize Calanthe Tricarinata?
A: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: What should I do if my Calanthe Tricarinata is not blooming?
A: Make sure the plant is getting enough light and that the soil is not too wet. It may also need to be fertilized more frequently.
Q: Can Calanthe Tricarinata be propagated?
A: Yes, this plant can be propagated by dividing the rhizomes in the spring.
Related Plants
- Calanthe discolor
- Calanthe triplicata
- Calanthe vestita
- Calanthe reflexa
References
- “Calanthe tricarinata Lindl.” Flora of China, efloras.org.
- “Calanthe tricarinata Lindl.” Orchids Wiki, orchids.fandom.com.
- “Calanthe tricarinata.” Missouri Botanical Garden, missouribotanicalgarden.org.
