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Description
Cleisostoma Paniculatum, commonly known as the Panther Orchid, is a species of orchid that belongs to the Cleisostoma genus. The plant is native to Southeast Asia, including Malaysia, Indonesia, and the Philippines. It is an epiphytic plant that grows on trees and rocks in its natural habitat. The Panther Orchid is known for its beautiful flowers, which bloom in clusters of up to 20 flowers per inflorescence. The flowers are small, measuring only 1-2 cm in diameter, but they are incredibly fragrant and come in a range of colors, including white, yellow, pink, and purple.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Asparagales |
| Family | Orchidaceae |
| Genus | Cleisostoma |
Appearance
The Panther Orchid has long, narrow leaves that can grow up to 20 cm in length. The leaves are thick and fleshy, and they are arranged in a rosette at the base of the plant. The flowers of the Panther Orchid are small, measuring only 1-2 cm in diameter, but they are incredibly fragrant and come in a range of colors, including white, yellow, pink, and purple. The flowers bloom in clusters of up to 20 flowers per inflorescence, and they have a distinctive lip that is usually brightly colored.
Care Guide
The Panther Orchid is a relatively easy plant to care for, but it does require some specific conditions in order to thrive. Here are some tips on how to care for your Panther Orchid:
- Water: The Panther Orchid likes to be kept moist but not wet. Water your plant regularly, but allow the top layer of soil to dry out slightly before watering again.
- Fertilization: Feed your Panther Orchid with a balanced fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season (spring and summer). Reduce fertilization in the fall and stop altogether in the winter.
- Soil: The Panther Orchid prefers a well-draining soil mix. Use a mixture of bark, sphagnum moss, and perlite to provide the plant with adequate drainage.
- Sunlight: The Panther Orchid prefers bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sunlight, as this can burn the leaves and flowers.
- Hardiness Zones: The Panther Orchid is a tropical plant and requires temperatures of at least 60°F. It is hardy in USDA zones 10-12.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Panther Orchid is relatively pest and disease resistant, but it can be susceptible to a few common problems:
- Spider Mites: These tiny pests can cause discoloration and damage to the leaves of the plant. Use an insecticidal soap or neem oil to treat.
- Fungal Infections: Overwatering can lead to fungal infections such as root rot. Make sure to allow the top layer of soil to dry out before watering again.
Habitat
The Panther Orchid is native to Southeast Asia, including Malaysia, Indonesia, and the Philippines. It is an epiphytic plant that grows on trees and rocks in its natural habitat. The plant prefers warm, humid conditions and is often found in rainforests.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water my Panther Orchid?
A: Water your Panther Orchid regularly, but allow the top layer of soil to dry out slightly before watering again.
Q: What is the best fertilizer for my Panther Orchid?
A: Feed your Panther Orchid with a balanced fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season (spring and summer).
Q: How do I treat spider mites on my Panther Orchid?
A: Use an insecticidal soap or neem oil to treat spider mites on your Panther Orchid.
Q: What temperature range does the Panther Orchid prefer?
A: The Panther Orchid is a tropical plant and requires temperatures of at least 60°F. It is hardy in USDA zones 10-12.
Related Plants
- Cleisostoma acuminatum
- Cleisostoma discolor
- Cleisostoma luzonicum
- Cleisostoma scolopendrifolium
References
- “Cleisostoma Paniculatum.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 5 August 2021. <http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=286167&isprofile=0&=&=&=&y=0&cmn=Cleisostoma+paniculatum&PlantCode=CLSP4>.
- “Cleisostoma Paniculatum.” Orchids Wiki. Accessed 5 August 2021. <https://orchids.fandom.com/wiki/Cleisostoma_paniculatum>.
- “Panther Orchid (Cleisostoma Paniculatum).” World of Flowering Plants. Accessed 5 August 2021. <https://worldoffloweringplants.com/panther-orchid-cleisostoma-paniculatum/>.
