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Description
Dendrophylax Porrectus, commonly known as the Ghost Orchid, is a species of epiphytic orchid native to Florida in the United States and the Bahamas. It belongs to the Orchidaceae family and is known for its unique appearance and fascinating behavior.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Asparagales |
| Family | Orchidaceae |
| Genus | Dendrophylax |
Appearance
The Ghost Orchid is a small, leafless orchid that grows to a height of 8-10 inches. It has long, thin roots that grow along the bark of trees, and it attaches itself to the bark with a velamen, a spongy tissue that absorbs moisture from the air. The stem of the Ghost Orchid is thin and wiry, and produces one or two white, fragrant flowers that bloom from June to August.
Care Guide
The Ghost Orchid is a delicate plant that requires specific care to thrive. Here are some tips for caring for your Ghost Orchid:
- Water: The Ghost Orchid requires high humidity, so mist it daily with room temperature water. Water it once a week during the growing season, and reduce watering during the winter months.
- Fertilization: Fertilize your Ghost Orchid once a month during the growing season with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer. Do not fertilize during the winter months.
- Soil: The Ghost Orchid does not grow in soil. It attaches itself to the bark of trees, so do not plant it in a pot with soil.
- Sunlight: The Ghost Orchid prefers bright, indirect light. Do not expose it to direct sunlight, as it can burn the leaves.
- Hardiness Zones: The Ghost Orchid is hardy in USDA zones 10-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Ghost Orchid is susceptible to several pests and diseases, including:
- Spider mites: These tiny pests can infest the leaves and cause yellowing and curling. Use a miticide to control spider mites.
- Mealybugs: Mealybugs are small, white insects that can cause stunted growth and yellowing. Use an insecticide to control mealybugs.
- Root rot: Overwatering can cause root rot, which can lead to the death of the plant. Allow the velamen to dry out between waterings to prevent root rot.
Habitat
The Ghost Orchid is native to Florida in the United States and the Bahamas. It grows in humid, swampy areas and attaches itself to the bark of trees, such as bald cypress and pond apple.
Questions and Answers
Q: What is the scientific name of the Ghost Orchid?
A: The scientific name of the Ghost Orchid is Dendrophylax Porrectus.
Q: What is the velamen?
A: The velamen is a spongy tissue that absorbs moisture from the air and allows the Ghost Orchid to attach itself to the bark of trees.
Q: How often should I water my Ghost Orchid?
A: Water your Ghost Orchid once a week during the growing season, and reduce watering during the winter months.
Q: Where is the Ghost Orchid native to?
A: The Ghost Orchid is native to Florida in the United States and the Bahamas.
Related Plants
- Dendrophylax Lindenii
- Dendrophylax Fawcettii
- Dendrophylax Funalis
References
- Florida Native Orchids: Dendrophylax Porrectus. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.fnos.org/orchids/dendrophylax-porrectus/
- Ghost Orchid. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.nps.gov/EVER/learn/nature/ghostorchid.htm
- Ghost Orchid. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.floridamuseum.ufl.edu/discover-nature/plants- fungi/ghost-orchid/
