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Description
Corybas Vitreus, also known as the Glass Helmet Orchid, is a rare and unique orchid species that belongs to the family Orchidaceae. This orchid is native to the cool and moist forests of Australia and New Zealand. It has a small and compact growth habit, with a height of only 10 to 15 centimeters. The leaves are small and round, while the flowers are the main attraction of this plant. The flowers are tubular and have a glass-like appearance, hence the name Glass Helmet Orchid.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Asparagales |
| Family | Orchidaceae |
| Genus | Corybas |
Appearance
The Glass Helmet Orchid has a unique and beautiful appearance that makes it stand out from other orchids. The flowers are tubular in shape and have a glass-like appearance, with a translucent white or pink color. The lip of the flower is frilly and has a bright yellow or orange color. The leaves are small and round, and grow close to the ground. The plant is small and compact, with a height of only 10 to 15 centimeters.
Care Guide
The Glass Helmet Orchid requires specific care to thrive and produce beautiful flowers. Here are some tips for caring for this orchid:
- Water: The orchid prefers to be kept moist, but not wet. Water the plant regularly, but allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.
- Fertilization: Use a balanced orchid fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season. Reduce fertilization during the dormant season.
- Soil: Use a well-draining orchid mix that contains bark, sphagnum moss, and perlite.
- Sunlight: The orchid prefers bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sunlight, as it can damage the leaves and flowers.
- Hardiness Zones: The Glass Helmet Orchid is hardy in USDA zones 9 to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Glass Helmet Orchid is relatively pest and disease resistant, but it can still be affected by certain issues. Here are some common pests and diseases to watch out for:
- Spider mites: These tiny pests can cause discoloration and webbing on the leaves. Use a miticide to control an infestation.
- Mealybugs: These insects can cause damage to the leaves and flowers. Use a systemic insecticide to control an infestation.
- Crown rot: This disease can affect the plant if it is overwatered or if the soil does not drain properly. Remove affected leaves and apply a fungicide to prevent further spread.
Habitat
The Glass Helmet Orchid is native to the cool and moist forests of Australia and New Zealand. It prefers to grow in shaded areas with high humidity and good air circulation. The plant can be found growing on the forest floor or on rocks and logs.
Question and Answer
Q: Can the Glass Helmet Orchid be grown indoors?
A: Yes, the orchid can be grown indoors as long as it is provided with the proper care, including bright, indirect light and consistent moisture.
Q: How often should I fertilize my Glass Helmet Orchid?
A: Use a balanced orchid fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season. Reduce fertilization during the dormant season.
Q: Does the Glass Helmet Orchid require a specific type of soil?
A: Yes, the orchid requires a well-draining orchid mix that contains bark, sphagnum moss, and perlite.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for the Glass Helmet Orchid?
A: The orchid is hardy in USDA zones 9 to 11.
Related Plants
- Corybas Fimbriatus
- Corybas Limbatus
- Corybas Macranthus
- Corybas Obtusus
References
- “Corybas vitreus – Glass Helmet Orchid.” Orchids.org. Accessed 30 June 2021. https://www.orchids.org/glass-helmet-orchid
- “Corybas vitreus.” World Checklist of Selected Plant Families. Accessed 30 June 2021. http://wcsp.science.kew.org/namedetail.do?name_id=53128
- “Corybas vitreus.” Plants of the World Online. Accessed 30 June 2021. http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:61553-3
