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Description
Encyclia Tampensis, also known as the Florida butterfly orchid, is a beautiful epiphytic orchid native to Florida, the Bahamas, and Cuba. It belongs to the Orchidaceae family, and its scientific name is Encyclia Tampensis. This orchid is beloved for its fragrant and showy flowers, which bloom in the winter and early spring. The flowers are pink to lavender in color, with a yellow or white lip.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Asparagales |
| Family | Orchidaceae |
| Genus | Encyclia |
Appearance
Encyclia Tampensis has pseudobulbs that are slender and elongated, up to 60 cm long. The leaves are strap-shaped, up to 60 cm long and 4 cm wide, and they are arranged in a fan-like manner. The inflorescence is up to 60 cm long and bears up to 15 flowers. The flowers are fragrant and showy, with petals and sepals that are pink to lavender in color, and a lip that is yellow or white. The flowers are up to 5 cm wide and are arranged in a raceme.
Care Guide
Encyclia Tampensis requires moderate care and attention to thrive. Here are some tips for caring for this beautiful orchid:
Water: Encyclia Tampensis prefers to be kept moist but not wet. Water the orchid when the top layer of the potting mix is dry to the touch.
Fertilization: Fertilize the orchid every two weeks during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. Use a fertilizer with a lower nitrogen content during the winter months.
Soil: Encyclia Tampensis prefers a well-draining potting mix that is rich in organic matter. Use a mix of fir bark, perlite, and sphagnum moss.
Sunlight: Encyclia Tampensis prefers bright, indirect sunlight. Avoid exposing the orchid to direct sunlight, which can burn the leaves.
Hardiness Zones: Encyclia Tampensis is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Encyclia Tampensis is susceptible to a few pests and diseases, including spider mites, scale insects, and bacterial rot. To prevent these issues, keep the orchid in a well-ventilated area, avoid overwatering, and inspect the plant regularly for signs of pests or disease. If you notice any issues, treat the orchid with an appropriate pesticide or fungicide.
Habitat
Encyclia Tampensis is native to Florida, the Bahamas, and Cuba. It grows as an epiphyte in trees and on rocks, and it prefers a warm and humid environment.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water Encyclia Tampensis?
A: Water the orchid when the top layer of the potting mix is dry to the touch.
Q: What kind of soil does Encyclia Tampensis prefer?
A: Encyclia Tampensis prefers a well-draining potting mix that is rich in organic matter. Use a mix of fir bark, perlite, and sphagnum moss.
Q: What pests and diseases are common in Encyclia Tampensis?
A: Spider mites, scale insects, and bacterial rot are common pests and diseases in Encyclia Tampensis.
Q: Where is Encyclia Tampensis native to?
A: Encyclia Tampensis is native to Florida, the Bahamas, and Cuba.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Encyclia Tampensis:
- Encyclia Cochleata
- Encyclia Fragrans
- Encyclia Orchidacea
- Encyclia Vitellina
References
- “Encyclia tampensis.” World Checklist of Selected Plant Families, Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew. Accessed 13 October 2021.
- “Encyclia tampensis.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 13 October 2021.
- “Florida Butterfly Orchid.” University of Florida IFAS Extension. Accessed 13 October 2021.
- “Encyclia tampensis.” Orchids Wiki. Accessed 13 October 2021.
