Contents
Description
Catasetum Integerrimum is a species of orchid that is found in the tropical regions of South America, Central America, and the Caribbean. It is a terrestrial orchid that grows in the ground rather than in trees like many other orchids. The plant has a unique appearance and produces flowers that are both attractive and unusual. It is a popular plant among orchid enthusiasts and collectors.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Asparagales |
| Family | Orchidaceae |
| Genus | Catasetum |
Appearance
Catasetum Integerrimum is a medium-sized orchid plant that can reach up to 1 meter in height. It has pseudobulbs that are cylindrical in shape and can grow up to 30 cm in length. The leaves are large and oblong, with a leathery texture and a glossy green color. The flowers are produced on long spikes that can grow up to 1 meter in length. The flowers are typically yellow or greenish-yellow in color and have a distinctive shape that resembles a duck’s head. The lip of the flower is highly modified and serves as a trap for pollinating insects.
Care Guide
Catasetum Integerrimum requires specific care to thrive. Here are some tips:
- Water: Water the plant regularly during the growing season, but allow the soil to dry slightly between waterings. In the winter, reduce watering and allow the soil to dry more thoroughly.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant regularly during the growing season with a balanced orchid fertilizer. In the winter, reduce fertilization or stop altogether.
- Soil: Use a well-draining soil mix that is specifically formulated for orchids.
- Sunlight: Provide the plant with bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sunlight, as this can damage the leaves and flowers.
- Hardiness Zones: Catasetum Integerrimum is a tropical plant and is not cold hardy. It should be grown in zones 10-11 or indoors in cooler climates.
Common Pests & Diseases
Catasetum Integerrimum is susceptible to a few common pests and diseases:
- Spider mites: These tiny pests can infest the plant and cause damage to the leaves and flowers. Use an insecticidal soap to control the infestation.
- Thrips: These small insects can damage the flowers and cause discoloration. Use an insecticidal soap to control the infestation.
- Crown rot: Overwatering can cause the roots to rot, which can lead to the death of the plant. Allow the soil to dry between waterings to prevent this.
Habitat
Catasetum Integerrimum is found in the tropical regions of South America, Central America, and the Caribbean. It grows in the ground in areas with high humidity and rainfall. The plant can be found in rainforests and other tropical habitats.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water my Catasetum Integerrimum?
A: Water the plant regularly during the growing season, but allow the soil to dry slightly between waterings. In the winter, reduce watering and allow the soil to dry more thoroughly.
Q: What is the best fertilizer to use for Catasetum Integerrimum?
A: Use a balanced orchid fertilizer and apply it regularly during the growing season. In the winter, reduce fertilization or stop altogether.
Q: Can Catasetum Integerrimum be grown indoors?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown indoors in cooler climates. Provide it with bright, indirect light and a well-draining soil mix.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Catasetum Integerrimum?
A: The plant is not cold hardy and should be grown in zones 10-11 or indoors in cooler climates.
Related Plants
- Catasetum expansum
- Catasetum maculatum
- Catasetum pileatum
- Catasetum saccatum
References
- World Checklist of Selected Plant Families. (n.d.). Catasetum integerrimum. Retrieved from http://wcsp.science.kew.org/namedetail.do?name_id=47046
- Catasetum integerrimum. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/21409/Catasetum-integerrimum/Details
- Catasetum integerrimum. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.orchidspecies.com/catintegerrimum.htm
