Contents
Description
Galearis Rotundifolia, commonly known as the round-leaved orchid, is a pretty flowering plant native to North America. It is a species of orchid that belongs to the Orchidaceae family. This plant is known for its cute and small size, with a height of 10-20 cm. It usually blooms from May to June, and its flowers are pink or white. It is a great addition to any garden, and it is also an excellent choice for those who love to grow orchids.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Asparagales |
| Family | Orchidaceae |
| Genus | Galearis |
Appearance
The round-leaved orchid has a small size, with a height of 10-20 cm. It has one or two basal leaves that are round, green, and slightly hairy. Its flowers are pink or white, with a diameter of 1.5-2 cm. It has three sepals and three petals, and the lip is fringed. The flowers grow in a loose spike and usually bloom from May to June. The round-leaved orchid is a beautiful plant that can add color and life to any garden.
Care Guide
Water: The round-leaved orchid prefers moist soil, but it should not be watered excessively. Water it once a week during the growing season, and reduce watering during the winter months.
Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. Do not fertilize during the winter months.
Soil: The round-leaved orchid prefers well-drained, slightly acidic soil. Use a mixture of peat moss, perlite, and bark to create the ideal soil for this plant.
Sunlight: The round-leaved orchid prefers partial shade and can tolerate full shade. Do not expose it to direct sunlight, as it can damage the plant.
Hardiness Zones: The round-leaved orchid can grow in USDA Hardiness Zones 3 to 8.
Common Pests & Diseases
The round-leaved orchid is relatively pest-free, but it can be susceptible to aphids, spider mites, and mealybugs. To prevent these pests, keep the plant healthy and well-watered. If there is an infestation, use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control the pests.
The round-leaved orchid can also be affected by root rot, which can be caused by overwatering. To prevent root rot, ensure that the soil is well-drained and that the plant is not watered excessively.
Habitat
The round-leaved orchid is native to North America and can be found in moist woods, bogs, and swamps. It prefers shady areas and can grow in various soil types.
Question and Answer
Q: Can the round-leaved orchid be grown indoors?
A: Yes, the round-leaved orchid can be grown indoors. It prefers partial shade and moist soil.
Q: How often should I fertilize my round-leaved orchid?
A: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. Do not fertilize during the winter months.
Q: What is the ideal pH for the soil of the round-leaved orchid?
A: The round-leaved orchid prefers slightly acidic soil, with a pH of around 6.0-6.5.
Q: How often should I water my round-leaved orchid?
A: Water the plant once a week during the growing season, and reduce watering during the winter months.
Related Plants
- Galearis spectabilis
- Galearis biflora
- Platanthera orbiculata
- Platanthera dilatata
References
- “Galearis Rotundifolia.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed March 21, 2022. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=278794.
- “Galearis Rotundifolia.” Plants of the World Online. Accessed March 21, 2022. http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:625406-1.
- “Round-leaved Orchid.” USDA Plants Database. Accessed March 21, 2022. https://plants.usda.gov/home/plantProfile?symbol=GARO4.
