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Description
Galearis Spathulata, commonly known as the Spoon-Lipped Orchid, is a species of orchid native to the eastern part of North America. This plant is a terrestrial orchid that is found in moist, shady habitats, including forests and wetlands. The plant is small, growing up to 30 cm in height, and is characterized by its spoon-shaped lip, which gives it its common name.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Angiosperms |
| Class | Monocots |
| Order | Asparagales |
| Family | Orchidaceae |
| Genus | Galearis |
Appearance
The Spoon-Lipped Orchid has a single stem that grows up to 30 cm tall. The stem is covered in small, lance-shaped leaves that are green in color. The flowers of this orchid are small, measuring only about 2 cm across, and are typically pink or purple in color. The most distinctive feature of the Spoon-Lipped Orchid is its spoon-shaped lip, which is white in color and has a pink or purple center.
Care Guide
To care for Galearis Spathulata, it is important to replicate the plant’s natural habitat as closely as possible. This means providing it with moist, well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The plant should be watered regularly, but care should be taken not to overwater it as this can lead to root rot. Fertilizer should be applied sparingly, as the plant is adapted to nutrient-poor soils. The orchid prefers partial shade to full shade and is hardy in zones 4-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Spoon-Lipped Orchid is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it can be susceptible to fungal infections, particularly if it is overwatered or grown in soil that is too moist. To prevent fungal issues, it is important to provide the orchid with good air circulation and to avoid getting water on the leaves or flowers.
Habitat
Galearis Spathulata is found in moist, shady habitats, including forests and wetlands, in the eastern part of North America. The orchid prefers soil that is moist but well-drained and is often found growing on the forest floor, particularly in areas with a lot of leaf litter.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Galearis Spathulata be grown indoors?
A: While it is possible to grow this orchid indoors, it is best suited to outdoor growing conditions.
Q: Does Galearis Spathulata require a lot of sunlight?
A: No, this orchid prefers partial to full shade.
Q: How often should Galearis Spathulata be watered?
A: This orchid should be watered regularly, but care should be taken not to overwater it as this can lead to root rot.
Q: When does Galearis Spathulata typically bloom?
A: This orchid typically blooms in the late spring or early summer.
Related Plants
Other species in the Galearis genus include:
- Galearis spectabilis
- Galearis rotundifolia
- Galearis bifolia
References
- Encyclopedia of Life. (n.d.). Galearis spathulata. Retrieved from https://eol.org/pages/1102333
- Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Galearis spathulata. Retrieved from https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=281962&isprofile=1&basic=galearis%20spathulata
- USDA Plants Database. (n.d.). Galearis spathulata. Retrieved from https://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=GASP
