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Description
Epipactis Atrorubens, commonly known as the Dark Red Helleborine, is a beautiful orchid found in Europe. It grows from a rhizome and can reach a height of 50-70 cm. This plant has a dark red, almost purple, inflorescence with small flowers that bloom from June to August. It is a rare plant that can be found in damp woods, meadows, and marshes.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Asparagales |
| Family | Orchidaceae |
| Genus | Epipactis |
Appearance
Epipactis Atrorubens has a dark red, almost purple, inflorescence with small flowers that bloom from June to August. The flowers have a diameter of 1-2 cm and are arranged in a loose spike. The sepals and petals are twisted and form a hood over the lip. The lip is three-lobed, with the middle lobe being the largest and fringed. The leaves are lance-shaped, dark green, and can grow up to 12 cm long. The stem is also green and can have red spots.
Care Guide
Epipactis Atrorubens is an easy-to-grow plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips on how to care for this orchid:- Water: Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Water once a week during the growing season and reduce watering during the dormant season.- Fertilization: Use a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.- Soil: Use well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.- Sunlight: This plant prefers partial shade to full shade.- Hardiness Zones: Epipactis Atrorubens is hardy in USDA zones 5-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Epipactis Atrorubens is not prone to many pests and diseases, but it can be affected by the following:- Slugs and snails: These pests can feed on the leaves and flowers. Use slug pellets or copper tape to keep them away.- Spider mites: These pests can cause yellowing and stunted growth. Use insecticidal soap to control them.- Viruses: This plant can be affected by several viruses that cause stunted growth, distorted leaves, and mottling. Unfortunately, there is no cure for viral infections.
Habitat
Epipactis Atrorubens can be found in damp woods, meadows, and marshes. It prefers soils that are rich in organic matter and can grow in both acidic and alkaline soils. This plant is native to Europe, including the United Kingdom, France, Germany, and Italy.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Epipactis Atrorubens a rare plant?
A: Yes, it is a rare plant that is protected by law in some countries.
Q: Can I grow Epipactis Atrorubens indoors?
A: It is not recommended to grow this plant indoors as it requires natural light and humidity.
Q: How often should I fertilize Epipactis Atrorubens?
A: Use a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
Q: Does Epipactis Atrorubens have any medicinal properties?
A: There is no evidence to suggest that this plant has any medicinal properties.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Epipactis Atrorubens:- Epipactis Gigantea- Epipactis Palustris- Epipactis Helleborine- Epipactis Microphylla- Epipactis Purpurata
References
– Royal Horticultural Society. (n.d.). Epipactis atrorubens. Retrieved from https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/10896/i-epipactis-atrorubens-i/details- The Wildlife Trusts. (n.d.). Dark red helleborine. Retrieved from https://www.wildlifetrusts.org/wildlife-explorer/wildflowers/dark-red-helleborine
