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Description
Cheirostylis is a genus of orchids that belongs to the family Orchidaceae. The genus comprises around 30 species of terrestrial orchids that are native to Southeast Asia, the Himalayas, and the Pacific islands. These plants are known for their unique flowers that bloom in the winter or early spring. The flowers have a distinct shape and are often fragrant. The genus name is derived from the Greek words “cheir” meaning hand and “stylis” meaning column, referring to the shape of the flower.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Asparagales |
| Family | Orchidaceae |
| Genus | Cheirostylis |
Appearance
Cheirostylis plants typically grow to a height of 10-20cm and have a single roundish leaf. The flowers grow on a spike that can be up to 25cm tall. The flowers are small, measuring around 2cm in diameter, and are usually green, brown, or purple in color. They have a unique shape, with the column protruding from the center of the flower. The flowers are often fragrant and bloom in the winter or early spring.
Care Guide
Cheirostylis orchids are relatively easy to care for and can be grown indoors or outdoors. Here are some tips for caring for these plants:
- Water: Water your Cheirostylis orchid once a week, making sure the soil is moist but not waterlogged.
- Fertilization: Fertilize your orchid once a month with a balanced orchid fertilizer.
- Soil: Cheirostylis orchids prefer well-draining soil, so use a well-draining potting mix or add perlite to your soil mix.
- Sunlight: These plants prefer bright, indirect sunlight, so place them in a spot where they can receive filtered sunlight.
- Hardiness Zones: Cheirostylis orchids are hardy in USDA zones 10-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Cheirostylis orchids are relatively pest and disease resistant, but they can still be affected by some common issues. Here are some of the most common pests and diseases that affect these plants:
- Aphids: These small insects can infest the leaves and flowers of your orchid, causing damage and spreading disease.
- Spider mites: These tiny pests can cause discoloration and damage to your orchid leaves.
- Root rot: Overwatering your orchid can lead to root rot, which can cause your plant to wilt and die.
- Leaf spot: This fungal disease can cause leaf discoloration and damage to your orchid.
Habitat
Cheirostylis orchids are native to Southeast Asia, the Himalayas, and the Pacific islands. They typically grow in shady areas of forests, on moist soil or rocks. Some species can also be found growing on trees or other plants as epiphytes.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Cheirostylis orchids be grown indoors?
A: Yes, Cheirostylis orchids can be grown indoors as long as they receive bright, indirect sunlight and are watered regularly.
Q: How often should I fertilize my Cheirostylis orchid?
A: You should fertilize your orchid once a month with a balanced orchid fertilizer.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Cheirostylis orchids?
A: Cheirostylis orchids are hardy in USDA zones 10-11.
Q: Do Cheirostylis orchids require a lot of water?
A: No, Cheirostylis orchids do not require a lot of water. Water them once a week, making sure the soil is moist but not waterlogged.
Related Plants
- Bulbophyllum
- Dendrobium
- Phalaenopsis
- Paphiopedilum
References
- “Cheirostylis.” World Checklist of Selected Plant Families, Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.
- “Growing Orchids Indoors.” American Orchid Society, www.aos.org/orchids/culture-sheets/growing-orchids-indoors.aspx.
- “Orchid Pests and Diseases.” American Orchid Society, www.aos.org/orchids/orchid-pests-diseases.aspx.
