Contents
Description
Drakaea Glyptodon, commonly known as the Hammer Orchid, is a rare and unusual species of orchid native to Western Australia. It is a small plant that typically grows up to 30cm in height and has a solitary leaf. The flower of Drakaea Glyptodon is unique in appearance and attracts male thynnine wasps as pollinators.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Asparagales |
| Family | Orchidaceae |
| Genus | Drakaea |
Appearance
The flower of Drakaea Glyptodon is the most distinctive feature of the plant. It has a unique hammer-shaped labellum that is used to attract male thynnine wasps. The flowers are typically pink, but can also be white or yellow. The plant has a solitary leaf that is narrow and elongated, and can grow up to 15cm in length. The stem of the plant is thin and wiry, and can grow up to 30cm in height.
Care Guide
Drakaea Glyptodon is a unique and rare orchid that requires specific care to thrive:
- Water: The plant should be watered regularly with rainwater or distilled water. It should not be allowed to dry out completely.
- Fertilization: The plant should be fertilized once a month during the growing season with a balanced orchid fertilizer.
- Soil: The plant should be planted in a well-draining orchid mix, such as bark or sphagnum moss.
- Sunlight: The plant should be placed in bright, indirect light. Direct sunlight can damage the leaves and flowers.
- Hardiness Zones: Drakaea Glyptodon is not hardy and should be kept in a warm environment. It is best suited to USDA hardiness zones 11-12.
Common Pests & Diseases
Drakaea Glyptodon is prone to several pests and diseases:
- Spider mites: These tiny pests can infest the plant and cause damage to the leaves and flowers. They can be treated with a miticide spray.
- Mealybugs: These pests can also infest the plant and cause damage to the leaves and flowers. They can be treated with a systemic insecticide.
- Fungal diseases: Drakaea Glyptodon is susceptible to fungal diseases, such as root rot and leaf spot. These can be treated with a fungicide spray.
Habitat
Drakaea Glyptodon is native to the southwest region of Western Australia. It is found in sandy and gravelly soils in open forests and heathlands. The plant is adapted to a Mediterranean climate, with hot, dry summers and cool, wet winters.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Drakaea Glyptodon be grown indoors?
A: Yes, Drakaea Glyptodon can be grown indoors as long as it is provided with bright, indirect light and warm temperatures.
Q: How often should Drakaea Glyptodon be fertilized?
A: Drakaea Glyptodon should be fertilized once a month during the growing season with a balanced orchid fertilizer.
Q: How often should Drakaea Glyptodon be watered?
A: Drakaea Glyptodon should be watered regularly with rainwater or distilled water. It should not be allowed to dry out completely.
Q: How can I attract thynnine wasps to pollinate my Drakaea Glyptodon?
A: Thynnine wasps are attracted to the scent of the flowers. You can try placing a small amount of honey or sugar water near the plant to encourage the wasps to visit.
Related Plants
- Drakaea elastica
- Drakaea isolata
- Drakaea micrantha
- Drakaea thynniphila
References
- “Drakaea Glyptodon.” Australian Native Orchid Society, Inc. Accessed 23 June 2021. https://www.anos.org.au/anos_species/drakaea-glyptodon/
- “Drakaea.” Wikipedia. Accessed 23 June 2021. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Drakaea
- “Hammer Orchid.” Kings Park and Botanic Garden. Accessed 23 June 2021. https://www.bgpa.wa.gov.au/kings-park/visit/plants-and-gardens/plants-in-focus/drakaea-glyptodon
