Malaxis Unifolia

Description

Malaxis Unifolia, also known as the Green Adder’s Mouth, is a small orchid that is native to the eastern United States. This plant has a single, smooth, green stem that grows up to 10 inches tall. The stem is topped by a cluster of small, green flowers that bloom from late summer to early fall. The flowers are only about 1/8 inch long and are arranged in a raceme, which is a long, unbranched inflorescence.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

The Malaxis Unifolia has a single, smooth, green stem that grows up to 10 inches tall. The stem is topped with a cluster of small, green flowers that bloom from late summer to early fall. The leaves of this plant are small and oval-shaped, arranged in a rosette at the base of the stem. The flowers are only about 1/8 inch long and are arranged in a raceme, which is a long, unbranched inflorescence. The flowers are green and have a distinctive lip that is divided into three lobes.

Care Guide

The Malaxis Unifolia is a relatively easy plant to care for. It prefers moist, well-drained soil and partial shade. Here are some care tips to keep your Malaxis Unifolia healthy:

Water

Keep the soil moist, but not waterlogged. Water your plant once a week, or more often if the soil feels dry to the touch.

Fertilization

Fertilize your plant every two weeks during the growing season with a balanced orchid fertilizer.

Soil

Use a well-draining potting mix that is specifically designed for orchids.

Sunlight

The Malaxis Unifolia prefers partial shade. Avoid direct sunlight, as it can scorch the leaves.

Hardiness Zones

This plant is hardy in USDA zones 5-9.

Common Pests & Diseases

The Malaxis Unifolia is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it can be susceptible to spider mites and mealybugs. If you notice any signs of infestation, you can treat your plant with an insecticidal soap.

Habitat

The Malaxis Unifolia is native to the eastern United States, where it grows in moist, shady habitats such as swamps, bogs, and wetlands.

Question and Answer

Q. How often should I water my Malaxis Unifolia?

A. Water your plant once a week, or more often if the soil feels dry to the touch.

Q. What type of soil should I use for my Malaxis Unifolia?

A. Use a well-draining potting mix that is specifically designed for orchids.

Q. What is the hardiness zone for the Malaxis Unifolia?

A. This plant is hardy in USDA zones 5-9.

Q. What pests and diseases is the Malaxis Unifolia susceptible to?

A. The Malaxis Unifolia is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it can be susceptible to spider mites and mealybugs. If you notice any signs of infestation, you can treat your plant with an insecticidal soap.

Related Plants

• Malaxis Bayardii
• Malaxis Brachypoda
• Malaxis Cylindrostachya
• Malaxis Monophyllos

References

• “Malaxis Unifolia.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b683.
• “Malaxis Unifolia.” USDA Plants Database, plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=MAUN.
• “Malaxis Unifolia.” Wikipedia, en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Malaxis_unifolia.