Contents
Description
Corybas Papa is a rare and fascinating orchid species native to New Zealand. It is a terrestrial plant that grows up to 15 cm tall and produces a single, large, dark purple flower. The flower has a distinctive, cone-shaped lip that is covered in tiny hairs, giving it a fuzzy appearance. The leaves of Corybas Papa are small and oval-shaped, and they grow from the base of the plant.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Asparagales |
| Family | Orchidaceae |
| Genus | Corybas |
| Species | Corybas Papa |
Appearance
Corybas Papa is a small and delicate plant with a unique appearance. Its single flower, which blooms in late winter or early spring, is the standout feature of the plant. The flower is dark purple, almost black, and has a cone-shaped lip that is covered in tiny hairs. The lip gives the flower a fuzzy appearance and makes it look almost like a small animal. The leaves of Corybas Papa are small and oval-shaped, and they grow from the base of the plant. They are green and have a slightly glossy texture.
Care Guide
Corybas Papa is a delicate plant that requires specific care to thrive. Here are some tips for caring for this unique orchid:
Water
Corybas Papa requires regular watering, but it is important not to overwater the plant. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged. Watering once a week is usually sufficient, but this may need to be adjusted depending on the humidity levels in your home.
Fertilization
Corybas Papa should be fertilized once a month during the growing season (spring and summer). Use a balanced fertilizer that is specifically formulated for orchids.
Soil
Corybas Papa should be planted in a well-draining soil mix that is specifically formulated for orchids. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged.
Sunlight
Corybas Papa prefers bright, indirect sunlight. It should be placed near a window that receives plenty of light but is not in direct sunlight.
Hardiness Zones
Corybas Papa is not a hardy plant and should be grown indoors in areas where the temperature drops below freezing in the winter.
Common Pests & Diseases
Corybas Papa is susceptible to a few common pests and diseases:
Pests
- Spider mites
- Mealybugs
- Thrips
Diseases
- Root rot
- Leaf spot
- Bacterial and fungal infections
Habitat
Corybas Papa is native to New Zealand and is found in damp, shady areas of the forest floor. It is a terrestrial plant that grows in soil enriched with decaying organic matter.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Corybas Papa difficult to grow?
A: Corybas Papa can be a challenging plant to grow due to its specific care requirements. However, with proper care, it can thrive in a home environment.
Q: How often should I fertilize Corybas Papa?
A: Corybas Papa should be fertilized once a month during the growing season (spring and summer).
Q: Can Corybas Papa be grown outdoors?
A: Corybas Papa is not a hardy plant and should be grown indoors in areas where the temperature drops below freezing in the winter.
Q: How often should I water Corybas Papa?
A: Corybas Papa requires regular watering, but it is important not to overwater the plant. Watering once a week is usually sufficient, but this may need to be adjusted depending on the humidity levels in your home.
Related Plants
- Corybas oblongus
- Corybas sulcatus
- Corybas recurvus
- Corybas macranthus
References
- “Corybas Papa,” New Zealand Native Orchids, accessed April 9, 2021, https://www.nznativeorchids.co.nz/corybas-papa.html.
- “Corybas Papa,” Orchid Species, accessed April 9, 2021, https://www.orchidspecies.com/corybaspapa.htm.
- “Corybas Papa,” Royal Botanic Garden Sydney, accessed April 9, 2021, https://www.rbgsyd.nsw.gov.au/plants/plant-index/orchids/corybas-papa.
