Contents
Description
Chiloglottis is a genus of terrestrial orchids that are native to Australia and New Zealand. This genus is known for its unique pollination strategy, which involves mimicking the scent of female wasps to attract male wasps as pollinators. There are currently around 30 recognized species in the Chiloglottis genus, each with their own distinct appearance and habitat.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain| Eukaryota ||———–|———–|| Kingdom| Plantae|| Phylum| Tracheophyta|| Class| Liliopsida|| Order| Asparagales|| Family| Orchidaceae|| Genus| Chiloglottis|
Appearance
Chiloglottis orchids are generally small in size, with a single leaf and a single flower stem. The flowers are often brightly colored and have a distinctive petal arrangement. The lip of the flower is often highly modified and plays a key role in attracting pollinators. The leaves of Chiloglottis orchids are usually broad and flat, and grow close to the ground.
Care Guide
Chiloglottis orchids can be difficult to care for, as they have specific requirements for water, fertilization, soil, sunlight, and hardiness zones. These orchids generally prefer well-draining soil that is kept moist but not waterlogged. They also require regular fertilization with a balanced orchid fertilizer. Chiloglottis orchids should be grown in bright, indirect sunlight and kept in a warm environment with consistent temperatures. These orchids are generally hardy to USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Chiloglottis orchids are susceptible to a number of common orchid pests and diseases, including spider mites, mealybugs, and fungal infections. These orchids should be regularly inspected for signs of infestation or disease, and treated promptly if any issues are detected.
Habitat
Chiloglottis orchids are found in a variety of habitats throughout Australia and New Zealand, including forests, woodlands, and grasslands. These orchids are often found growing in areas with well-draining soil and moderate amounts of sunlight.
Question and Answer
Q: What is the unique pollination strategy of Chiloglottis orchids?
A: Chiloglottis orchids mimic the scent of female wasps to attract male wasps as pollinators.
Q: What types of soil do Chiloglottis orchids prefer?
A: Chiloglottis orchids prefer well-draining soil that is kept moist but not waterlogged.
Q: How should I fertilize my Chiloglottis orchids?
A: Chiloglottis orchids should be regularly fertilized with a balanced orchid fertilizer.
Q: What are some common pests and diseases that affect Chiloglottis orchids?
A: Chiloglottis orchids are susceptible to spider mites, mealybugs, and fungal infections.
Related Plants
– Pterostylis- Diplodium- Caladenia- Thelymitra
References
– “Chiloglottis.” World Checklist of Selected Plant Families, Kew Science. Accessed 27 June 2021, http://wcsp.science.kew.org/namedetail.do?name_id=41501.- Jones, David L. et al. “Chiloglottis.” Australian Orchid Genera: An Information and Identification System. Accessed 27 June 2021, https://www.anbg.gov.au/cpbr/cd-keys/orchidkey/html/genera/Chiloglottis.htm.
