Contents
Description
Gastrodia Elata, also known as the “Thousand Gold Medicine,” is a rare and valuable orchid native to East Asia, including China, Japan, Korea, and Taiwan. This perennial herb grows up to 80 cm tall and produces a single, leafless stem with a cluster of small, brownish-purple flowers that bloom in late summer or early autumn. The plant is known for its medicinal properties and has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for centuries to treat various ailments, including headaches, dizziness, rheumatism, and paralysis.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Asparagales |
| Family | Orchidaceae |
| Genus | Gastrodia |
Appearance
Gastrodia Elata has a unique appearance, with a single, slender, and leafless stem that is reddish-brown in color. The stem is covered in small, scale-like bracts and produces a cluster of small, brownish-purple flowers that are about 1 cm in diameter. The flowers have a distinctive shape, with a long, narrow lip that curves upward and two small petals that curve downward. The plant blooms in late summer or early autumn and produces a sweet, musky scent.
Care Guide
Gastrodia Elata is a relatively easy plant to care for, as it requires minimal attention. Here are some tips for caring for this plant:
- Water: Water the plant when the soil feels dry to the touch, but avoid overwatering as this can cause root rot.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer every six months during the growing season.
- Soil: Plant the orchid in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: Gastrodia Elata prefers partial shade or filtered light, as direct sunlight can burn the leaves.
- Hardiness Zones: This plant is hardy in USDA zones 7-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Gastrodia Elata is relatively pest and disease-free, but it can be susceptible to root rot if overwatered. Here are some common pests and diseases to look out for:
- Root Rot: Overwatering can cause root rot, which can be fatal to the plant.
- Spider Mites: These tiny pests can infest the plant and cause yellowing and wilting of the leaves.
Habitat
Gastrodia Elata is native to East Asia, including China, Japan, Korea, and Taiwan. The plant is typically found in shady, moist areas, such as forests and mountain slopes, at elevations of up to 2,000 meters above sea level.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Gastrodia Elata a rare plant?
A: Yes, Gastrodia Elata is a rare plant that is highly valued for its medicinal properties.
Q: Can Gastrodia Elata be grown indoors?
A: Yes, Gastrodia Elata can be grown indoors as long as it is kept in a cool, shady area.
Q: What is the best soil for Gastrodia Elata?
A: Gastrodia Elata prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
Q: How often should I water Gastrodia Elata?
A: Water the plant when the soil feels dry to the touch, but avoid overwatering as this can cause root rot.
Related Plants
- Gastrodia Agnicellus
- Gastrodia Elatoides
- Gastrodia Flabellata
- Gastrodia Nantoensis
References
- Flora of China. (n.d.). Gastrodia elata. Retrieved from http://www.efloras.org/florataxon.aspx?flora_id=2&taxon_id=200027967
- Kew Science. (n.d.). Gastrodia elata. Retrieved from https://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:631633-1
- PlantZAfrica. (n.d.). Gastrodia elata. Retrieved from http://pza.sanbi.org/gastrodia-elata
