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Description
Gastrorchis Lutea is a rare orchid species that belongs to the family Orchidaceae. This unique epiphytic plant is native to Madagascar and can be found growing in the eastern rainforests of the island. The plant produces beautiful yellowish-green flowers that bloom in the summer months. The flowers have a sweet fragrance that attracts bees and other pollinators. The plant can grow to a height of 1 meter and has long, thin leaves that grow in a fan-like pattern.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Asparagales |
| Family | Orchidaceae |
| Genus | Gastrorchis |
Appearance
Gastrorchis Lutea has long, thin leaves that can grow up to 50 cm in length. The leaves grow in a fan-like pattern and are light green in color. The plant produces beautiful yellowish-green flowers that bloom in the summer months. The flowers have a sweet fragrance and can grow up to 4 cm in length. The petals and sepals are narrow and elongated, and the lip is wider and more rounded.
Care Guide
Gastrorchis Lutea requires specific care to thrive. Here are some tips on how to care for this unique plant:Water: The plant should be watered regularly, but not excessively. The roots should never be allowed to dry out completely.Fertilization: The plant should be fertilized monthly during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.Soil: The plant should be planted in a well-draining, coarse potting mix.Sunlight: The plant prefers bright, indirect light. It should be kept out of direct sunlight, which can scorch the leaves.Hardiness Zones: Gastrorchis Lutea is not frost-hardy and should be kept in a warm environment.
Common Pests & Diseases
Gastrorchis Lutea is susceptible to a few common pests and diseases:Spider Mites: These tiny pests can be identified by the fine webs they produce on the plant. They can be treated with insecticidal soap or neem oil.Mealybugs: These pests can be identified by the white cotton-like masses they produce on the plant. They can be treated with insecticidal soap or neem oil.Root Rot: This disease is caused by overwatering and can be prevented by ensuring the plant is not sitting in water.
Habitat
Gastrorchis Lutea is native to Madagascar and can be found growing in the eastern rainforests of the island. The plant is epiphytic and grows on the branches of trees. It prefers a warm, humid environment and thrives in temperatures between 20°C and 30°C.
Question and Answer
Q: What kind of soil is best for Gastrorchis Lutea?A: Gastrorchis Lutea should be planted in a well-draining, coarse potting mix.Q: How often should I water Gastrorchis Lutea?A: The plant should be watered regularly, but not excessively. The roots should never be allowed to dry out completely.Q: What is the ideal temperature range for Gastrorchis Lutea?A: Gastrorchis Lutea thrives in temperatures between 20°C and 30°C.Q: What pests and diseases are common in Gastrorchis Lutea?A: Gastrorchis Lutea is susceptible to spider mites, mealybugs, and root rot.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Gastrorchis Lutea:- Angraecum Magdalenae- Aerangis Citrata- Aerangis Luteoalba- Bulbophyllum Plumatum
References
– The Plant List. (n.d.). Gastrorchis lutea. Retrieved from http://www.theplantlist.org/tpl1.1/record/kew-86554- Orchid Species. (n.d.). Gastrorchis Lutea. Retrieved from https://www.orchidspecies.com/gastrorchislutea.htm- Royal Horticultural Society. (n.d.). Gastrorchis Lutea. Retrieved from https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/10375/Gastrorchis-lutea/Details
