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Description
Corallorhiza is a genus of orchids, commonly known as coralroot orchids. It is a non-photosynthetic plant that grows in North America, Europe, and Asia. The plants are leafless and rely on a mycorrhizal fungus for their nutrients. The coralroot orchids are notable for their unique flowers that grow on a spike. The flowers are small and inconspicuous, with a range of colors including pink, white, and yellow.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Asparagales |
| Family | Orchidaceae |
| Genus | Corallorhiza |
Appearance
Corallorhiza plants are typically small and inconspicuous, growing to a height of 10-30 cm. They are leafless and rely on a mycorrhizal fungus for their nutrients. The plant has a fleshy stem with a range of colors including brown, yellow, green, and pink. The flowers are small and grow on a spike, with a range of colors including pink, white, and yellow. The flowers are bell-shaped and have a distinctive lip.
Care Guide
Water: Corallorhiza orchids do not require much water. They prefer a well-draining soil that is kept moist but not wet. Fertilization: These plants do not require fertilization as they rely on a mycorrhizal fungus for their nutrients. Soil: Corallorhiza orchids prefer a well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. Sunlight: These plants prefer a shaded location with indirect sunlight. Hardiness Zones: Corallorhiza orchids are hardy in USDA zones 4-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Corallorhiza orchids are generally free from pests and diseases. However, they can be susceptible to fungal infections if they are overwatered or if the soil is not well-draining.
Habitat
Corallorhiza orchids are found in a variety of habitats, including forests, meadows, and wetlands. They are typically found growing in association with specific mycorrhizal fungi.
Question and Answer
Q: What is the significance of the mycorrhizal fungus in the growth of Corallorhiza orchids?
A: Corallorhiza orchids do not have chlorophyll and rely on the mycorrhizal fungus for their nutrients. The fungus forms a symbiotic relationship with the orchid, providing it with nutrients in exchange for carbohydrates.
Q: Can Corallorhiza orchids be grown indoors?
A: Corallorhiza orchids are not typically grown indoors as they require a specific mycorrhizal fungus for their growth.
Q: Are Corallorhiza orchids endangered?
A: Some species of Corallorhiza orchids are considered endangered due to habitat loss and over-collection.
Q: How do I identify a Corallorhiza orchid?
A: Corallorhiza orchids are leafless and have a distinctive spike of flowers. The flowers are small and bell-shaped, with a distinctive lip.
Related Plants
- Epipactis
- Goodyera
- Platanthera
References
- Flora of North America North of Mexico. Vol. 26. 2002.
- Orchids of Britain and Ireland: A Field and Site Guide. 2020.
- USDA Plants Database. Corallorhiza.
