Contents
Description
Malaxis Monophyllos Var. Brachypoda, commonly known as White Adder’s Mouth, is a small-sized orchid that belongs to the Malaxis genus. It is commonly found in North America and parts of Asia. This plant is known for its unique characteristics such as its white flowers that bloom in summer and its single, basal leaf that grows up to 5 cm long.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Asparagales |
| Family | Orchidaceae |
| Genus | Malaxis |
Appearance
White Adder’s Mouth has a unique appearance. It grows up to 20 cm tall and has white flowers that bloom in summer. The flowers have a distinctive shape that resembles a snake’s head, which is why it is named White Adder’s Mouth. The plant has a single, basal leaf that grows up to 5 cm long and is bright green in color.
Care Guide
To care for White Adder’s Mouth, follow these tips:
Water: Water your plant regularly, but do not let the soil become waterlogged. The plant needs moist soil, but not wet soil.
Fertilization: Fertilize your plant once a month with a balanced fertilizer during its growing season.
Soil: Use a well-draining soil mix that is rich in organic matter.
Sunlight: White Adder’s Mouth prefers partial shade or filtered sunlight. Avoid direct sunlight.
Hardiness Zones: White Adder’s Mouth can thrive in USDA hardiness zones 4-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
White Adder’s Mouth is prone to the following pests and diseases:
Pests: Spider mites, aphids, and mealybugs can infest this plant. Regularly inspect your plant and treat any infestations promptly.
Diseases: White Adder’s Mouth is susceptible to fungal diseases such as root rot and powdery mildew. Ensure proper drainage and adequate airflow around the plant to prevent these diseases.
Habitat
White Adder’s Mouth is commonly found in wetlands, swamps, bogs, and other moist areas. It prefers growing in acidic soils that are rich in organic matter.
Question and Answer
Q: What is the blooming season for White Adder’s Mouth?
A: White Adder’s Mouth blooms in summer.
Q: How tall does White Adder’s Mouth grow?
A: White Adder’s Mouth can grow up to 20 cm tall.
Q: What kind of soil does White Adder’s Mouth prefer?
A: White Adder’s Mouth prefers a well-draining soil mix that is rich in organic matter.
Q: What are the common pests and diseases that affect White Adder’s Mouth?
A: White Adder’s Mouth is prone to spider mites, aphids, mealybugs, root rot, and powdery mildew.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to White Adder’s Mouth:
- Malaxis Bayardii
- Malaxis Unifolia
- Malaxis Riparia
- Malaxis Paludosa
References
- “Malaxis Monophyllos var. Brachypoda” – Encyclopedia of Life
- “Malaxis Monophyllos var. Brachypoda” – USDA Plants Database
- “White Adder’s Mouth” – Illinois Wildflowers
