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Description
Eulophia Welwitschii, also known as Welwitsch’s Eulophia, is a species of orchid native to southern Africa. It was named after Friedrich Welwitsch, an Austrian botanist who discovered the plant in Angola in 1859. This stunning orchid is highly prized for its unique beauty and is commonly used for ornamental purposes. It has a striking appearance with large, showy flowers and a distinctive fragrance that makes it a popular choice for gardeners and flower enthusiasts.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Asparagales |
| Family | Orchidaceae |
| Genus | Eulophia |
Appearance
Eulophia Welwitschii has large, showy flowers that can grow up to 10cm in diameter. The flowers are typically a pale yellow or greenish-yellow color with reddish-brown markings. It has long, narrow leaves that can grow up to 60cm in length and 5cm in width. The plant can grow up to 1m in height and has a distinctive fragrance that is often described as sweet and spicy.
Care Guide
Eulophia Welwitschii requires moderate care and attention to thrive. Here are some tips:
Water
Water the plant regularly, but make sure not to overwater it as this can cause root rot. Allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.
Fertilization
Fertilize the plant every 2-3 weeks during the growing season using a balanced fertilizer. Reduce fertilization during the winter months.
Soil
Use a well-draining soil mix that is rich in organic matter. The plant prefers slightly acidic soil with a pH between 5.5 and 6.5.
Sunlight
Eulophia Welwitschii prefers bright, indirect sunlight. Avoid direct sunlight as this can damage the leaves and flowers.
Hardiness Zones
Eulophia Welwitschii is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Eulophia Welwitschii is susceptible to a few common pests and diseases:
Pests
- Spider mites
- Thrips
- Mealybugs
Diseases
- Root rot
- Fungal infections
- Viral infections
Habitat
Eulophia Welwitschii is native to southern Africa, where it can be found in a variety of habitats, including grasslands, savannas, and rocky outcrops. It prefers well-drained soil and can tolerate both drought and moderate levels of rainfall.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Eulophia Welwitschii a rare plant?
A: Yes, Eulophia Welwitschii is considered a rare and endangered plant species due to habitat loss and over-collection.
Q: Can Eulophia Welwitschii be grown indoors?
A: Yes, Eulophia Welwitschii can be grown indoors as long as it receives bright, indirect sunlight and is kept in a well-draining soil mix.
Q: How often should I fertilize Eulophia Welwitschii?
A: Fertilize the plant every 2-3 weeks during the growing season using a balanced fertilizer. Reduce fertilization during the winter months.
Q: What is the ideal temperature range for Eulophia Welwitschii?
A: Eulophia Welwitschii prefers a warm, humid environment with temperatures between 18-24°C.
Related Plants
- Eulophia alta
- Eulophia guineensis
- Eulophia petersii
- Eulophia streptopetala
References
- “Eulophia Welwitschii,” The Plant List, accessed April 23, 2021, http://www.theplantlist.org/tpl1.1/record/kew-243950.
- “Eulophia Welwitschii,” Orchids Wiki, accessed April 23, 2021, https://orchids.fandom.com/wiki/Eulophia_welwitschii.
- “Eulophia Welwitschii,” World Checklist of Selected Plant Families, accessed April 23, 2021, http://wcsp.science.kew.org/namedetail.do?name_id=243950.
