Contents
Description
Earina is a genus of epiphytic orchids native to Australia, New Zealand, and nearby islands. These plants are known for their striking appearance, with showy flowers that bloom in a variety of colors, including white, pink, purple, and red. The flowers are typically small and delicate, with a distinct lip that gives them a unique shape. Earina orchids are often grown as ornamental plants due to their attractive foliage and beautiful flowers.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Asparagales |
| Family | Orchidaceae |
| Genus | Earina |
Appearance
Earina plants are epiphytic orchids that grow on trees or rocks. They have long, thin stems that can reach up to 30 cm in length, with small, pointed leaves that grow in an alternating pattern. The flowers are typically small, measuring less than 2 cm in diameter, and bloom in a variety of colors, including white, pink, purple, and red. The lip of the flower is often brightly colored and has a unique shape that gives it a distinct appearance. Earina orchids are known for their attractive foliage, which can range in color from green to silver or purple.
Care Guide
To care for Earina plants, it is important to provide them with the right growing conditions. Here are some tips on how to care for these plants:- Water: Earina plants should be watered regularly, but not excessively. They prefer moist soil, but can be prone to root rot if they are overwatered. Allow the soil to dry slightly between watering.- Fertilization: Use a balanced orchid fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season. Avoid fertilizing during the winter months.- Soil: Use a well-draining orchid mix that contains bark, perlite, and sphagnum moss.- Sunlight: Earina plants prefer bright, indirect light. Avoid placing them in direct sunlight, as this can scorch the leaves and flowers.- Hardiness Zones: Earina orchids are not frost-tolerant and should be kept in temperatures above 50°F.
Common Pests & Diseases
Earina plants are susceptible to a variety of pests and diseases, including:- Spider mites: These tiny pests can cause webbing and yellowing of the leaves. Use a miticide to control infestations.- Mealybugs: These pests can cause yellowing and stunted growth. Use an insecticidal soap to control infestations.- Root rot: Overwatering can cause root rot, which can be fatal to the plant. Ensure that the soil is well-draining and allow it to dry out slightly between watering.
Habitat
Earina orchids are native to Australia, New Zealand, and nearby islands. They are epiphytic plants, which means they grow on trees or rocks in their natural habitat. Earina plants can also be grown in a greenhouse or as houseplants.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water my Earina plant?
A: Earina plants should be watered regularly, but not excessively. Allow the soil to dry slightly between watering.
Q: What kind of soil do Earina plants need?
A: Earina plants prefer a well-draining orchid mix that contains bark, perlite, and sphagnum moss.
Q: Are Earina plants frost-tolerant?
A: No, Earina orchids are not frost-tolerant and should be kept in temperatures above 50°F.
Q: What is the best fertilizer for Earina plants?
A: Use a balanced orchid fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season. Avoid fertilizing during the winter months.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Earina orchids:- Dendrobium orchids- Cattleya orchids- Phalaenopsis orchids- Vanda orchids
References
– “Earina.” The Plant List. 2013. Accessed 27 July 2021. http://www.theplantlist.org/1.1/browse/A/Orchidaceae/Earina/.- “Earina.” World Checklist of Selected Plant Families. Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew. Accessed 27 July 2021. http://wcsp.science.kew.org/namedetail.do?name_id=76454.
