Contents
Description
Gastrodia Flavilabella, also known as the Yellow-lipped Gastrodia, is a rare and unique orchid species found in Asia. It is a mycoheterotrophic plant, meaning it does not photosynthesize and relies on fungi for its nutrition. It is a small plant, growing up to 25 cm tall and has a yellowish-green stem with a single flower. The flower is around 2 cm long and 1.5 cm wide, with a yellow lip and reddish-brown petals. The plant has a pleasant fragrance and blooms in the summer.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Magnoliophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Asparagales |
| Family | Orchidaceae |
| Genus | Gastrodia |
Appearance
Gastrodia Flavilabella is a small, yellowish-green plant that grows up to 25 cm tall. It has a single flower that is around 2 cm long and 1.5 cm wide, with a yellow lip and reddish-brown petals. The stem is smooth and has no leaves. The plant has a pleasant fragrance and blooms in the summer.
Care Guide
Gastrodia Flavilabella is a mycoheterotrophic plant and requires specific care. Here are some tips for caring for this unique orchid:- Water: Gastrodia Flavilabella prefers moist soil and should be watered regularly to keep the soil from drying out. However, it is important not to overwater the plant as it can lead to root rot.- Fertilization: As a mycoheterotrophic plant, Gastrodia Flavilabella does not require fertilization.- Soil: Gastrodia Flavilabella requires well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It is recommended to use a mix of peat moss, perlite, and bark.- Sunlight: Gastrodia Flavilabella prefers low to medium light and should be kept out of direct sunlight.- Hardiness Zones: Gastrodia Flavilabella is a tropical plant and prefers warm temperatures. It is best suited for USDA hardiness zones 10-12.
Common Pests & Diseases
Gastrodia Flavilabella is susceptible to the same pests and diseases as other orchid species. Some common pests include spider mites, mealybugs, and scale insects. Diseases such as root rot and fungal infections can also affect the plant. It is important to monitor the plant regularly and treat any pests or diseases promptly to prevent further damage.
Habitat
Gastrodia Flavilabella is native to Asia and can be found in countries such as China, Japan, and Korea. It grows in shady areas of forests and is often found in association with fungi.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Gastrodia Flavilabella an easy plant to care for?
A: Gastrodia Flavilabella requires specific care due to its mycoheterotrophic nature. However, with proper care, it can thrive in suitable conditions.
Q: Can Gastrodia Flavilabella be grown indoors?
A: Yes, Gastrodia Flavilabella can be grown indoors as long as it is provided with the proper growing conditions such as low to medium light and well-draining soil.
Q: How often should I water my Gastrodia Flavilabella?
A: Gastrodia Flavilabella prefers moist soil and should be watered regularly to keep the soil from drying out. However, it is important not to overwater the plant as it can lead to root rot.
Q: Can Gastrodia Flavilabella be grown in a terrarium?
A: Yes, Gastrodia Flavilabella can be grown in a terrarium as long as it is provided with the proper growing conditions such as low to medium light and well-draining soil.
Related Plants
– Gastrodia Elata- Gastrodia Nantoensis- Gastrodia Agnicellus
References
– “Gastrodia Flavilabella” Kew Science, accessed 7 June 2021, https://www.kew.org/science/tropamerica/gastrodia-flavilabella.- “Gastrodia Flavilabella” Orchids Wiki, accessed 7 June 2021, https://orchids.fandom.com/wiki/Gastrodia_flavilabella.- “Gastrodia Flavilabella Care” Orchid Care Zone, accessed 7 June 2021, https://orchidcarezone.com/gastrodia-flavilabella-care/.
