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Description
Habenaria Rhodocheila, commonly known as the Pink-Lip Rein Orchid, is a type of orchid native to Asia, particularly in China, Taiwan, and Japan. It belongs to the Orchidaceae family, which is one of the largest families of flowering plants in the world. Habenaria Rhodocheila is a terrestrial orchid that grows up to 20-50cm tall and blooms from June to August. It has pink-lip flowers that grow in clusters on tall stems.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain: | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom: | Plantae |
| Phylum: | Spermatophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Asparagales |
| Family: | Orchidaceae |
| Genus: | Habenaria |
Appearance
The Habenaria Rhodocheila plant has a somewhat slender stem that bears a cluster of leaves at its base. The leaves are oblong and can grow up to 5-15cm long. The flowers of this plant are pink-lip and bloom in clusters on tall stems. The flowers have a unique shape, with a long spur and a lip that curves upwards. The plant blooms from June to August and can grow up to 20-50cm tall.
Care Guide
Water: Habenaria Rhodocheila needs to be kept moist at all times. Water the plant regularly, but make sure not to overwater it as this can lead to root rot.
Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. Reduce fertilization during the dormant season.
Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. Use a potting mix that contains perlite or vermiculite to improve drainage.
Sunlight: Habenaria Rhodocheila prefers bright but indirect sunlight. Place the plant in a location that receives morning or evening sun but avoid direct sunlight during the hottest parts of the day.
Hardiness Zones: This plant is hardy in USDA zones 6 to 9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Like all orchids, Habenaria Rhodocheila is susceptible to certain pests and diseases. The most common pests that attack this plant are mealybugs, spider mites, and scale insects. To prevent these pests, keep the plant clean and free of debris. Use a mild insecticide or soap solution to treat infestations.
The most common diseases that affect this plant are fungal infections, such as leaf spot and root rot. To prevent fungal infections, avoid overwatering the plant and keep it in well-ventilated areas. Remove any infected leaves or flowers immediately.
Habitat
Habenaria Rhodocheila is native to Asia, particularly in China, Taiwan, and Japan. It grows in wet meadows, grasslands, and open forests. The plant prefers cool and moist environments and can thrive in elevations of up to 3,000 meters above sea level.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Habenaria Rhodocheila grow in low light conditions?
A: No, this plant prefers bright but indirect sunlight. It needs at least 4-6 hours of sunlight per day to thrive.
Q: How often should I fertilize Habenaria Rhodocheila?
A: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. Reduce fertilization during the dormant season.
Q: Can I grow Habenaria Rhodocheila in a hanging basket?
A: No, this plant is a terrestrial orchid and needs to be grown in a pot with well-draining soil.
Q: How often should I water Habenaria Rhodocheila?
A: Water the plant regularly, but make sure not to overwater it as this can lead to root rot. Allow the soil to dry out slightly between watering.
Related Plants
- Habenaria Radiata
- Habenaria Edgeworthii
- Habenaria Macroceratitis
- Habenaria Cristata
References
- “Habenaria Rhodocheila.” World Checklist of Selected Plant Families, Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.
- “Pink Lip Rein Orchid.” Plant Care Today, 17 July 2021.
- “Habenaria Rhodocheila.” Missouri Botanical Garden.
