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Description
Diuris Nigromontana, also known as the Black Mountain Donkey Orchid, is a species of orchid that belongs to the family Orchidaceae. It is endemic to the Black Mountain region in the Australian Capital Territory and is a protected species under the Nature Conservation Act 2014. This orchid is highly sought after by orchid enthusiasts due to its unique and stunning appearance.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Asparagales |
| Family | Orchidaceae |
| Genus | Diuris |
Appearance
The Diuris Nigromontana orchid has a distinctive appearance with flowers that resemble a donkey’s head. Each flower is around 3-4 cm in length and has two yellow sepals at the back and two brownish-black petals at the front. The central labellum is also brownish-black and has a yellow callus in the middle. The flowers bloom in spring and early summer and are held on a spike that can grow up to 50 cm tall. The leaves are narrow and grass-like, growing up to 15 cm in length.
Care Guide
Diuris Nigromontana orchids require specific care to thrive. Here are some tips:
- Water: Water the orchid when the potting mix is dry to the touch. Do not let the orchid sit in water as this can cause root rot.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the orchid every two weeks during the growing season with a balanced orchid fertilizer.
- Soil: Use a well-draining orchid mix that contains bark, perlite, and sphagnum moss.
- Sunlight: Place the orchid in a bright, indirect light location.
- Hardiness Zones: Diuris Nigromontana orchids are hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Diuris Nigromontana orchids can be susceptible to pests and diseases such as:
- Spider Mites: These tiny pests can cause leaf damage and webbing. Treat with insecticidal soap.
- Mealybugs: These white, cottony pests can infest the orchid and cause leaf damage. Treat with alcohol-soaked cotton swabs.
- Root Rot: Overwatering can cause root rot, which can be fatal to the orchid. Use a well-draining potting mix and avoid overwatering.
Habitat
Diuris Nigromontana orchids are endemic to the Black Mountain region in the Australian Capital Territory. They grow in open woodland and grassland habitats on rocky or sandy soils. The orchids can also be found in disturbed areas such as roadsides and firebreaks.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Diuris Nigromontana orchids be grown indoors?
A: Yes, these orchids can be grown indoors as long as they receive bright, indirect light and are potted in a well-draining orchid mix.
Q: How often should I fertilize my Diuris Nigromontana orchid?
A: Fertilize every two weeks during the growing season with a balanced orchid fertilizer.
Q: Can Diuris Nigromontana orchids be propagated?
A: Yes, they can be propagated through division when the orchid is repotted.
Q: Are Diuris Nigromontana orchids difficult to grow?
A: They can be challenging to grow due to their specific care requirements, but with proper care, they can thrive.
Related Plants
- Diuris Punctata
- Diuris Sulphurea
- Diuris Brevis
- Diuris Corymbosa
References
- Australian Government Department of Agriculture, Water and the Environment. (2021). Black mountain donkey orchid (Diuris nigromontana). Retrieved from https://www.environment.gov.au/biodiversity/threatened/species/pubs/33354-factsheet.pdf
- Australian Native Orchid Society Canberra Region Group. (n.d.). Diuris nigromontana. Retrieved from https://www.anoscanberra.org.au/diuris-nigromontana/
- Royal Botanic Garden Sydney. (n.d.). Diuris nigromontana. Retrieved from https://www.rbgsyd.nsw.gov.au/RoyalBotanicGarden/media/RBG/Science/Cryptic%20species%20of%20Diuris%20in%20the%20ACT/Diuris-nigromontana.pdf
