Contents
Description
Microtis Unifolia, commonly known as the Onion Orchid, is a small terrestrial orchid native to Australia. This fascinating plant species has a single, narrow, and grass-like leaf that grows to a height of 10-30 cm. The leaf is rounded at the base and tapers to a point. The plant produces a single stem with a spike of greenish-white flowers that bloom from September to November. The flowers have a sweet fragrance and are pollinated by small insects such as gnats and flies.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Asparagales |
| Family | Orchidaceae |
| Genus | Microtis |
Appearance
Microtis Unifolia is a small, delicate orchid that is easy to miss in the wild. The plant has a single, narrow, and grass-like leaf that grows to a height of 10-30 cm. The leaf is rounded at the base and tapers to a point. The plant produces a single stem with a spike of greenish-white flowers that bloom from September to November. The flowers have a sweet fragrance and are about 5mm in diameter.
Care Guide
Microtis Unifolia is a hardy plant that can tolerate a wide range of growing conditions. Here are some tips for caring for this fascinating plant species:
Water: Water regularly during the growing season, but avoid overwatering. Allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.
Fertilization: Fertilize once a month during the growing season with a balanced orchid fertilizer.
Soil: Grow in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. Use a potting mix specifically formulated for orchids.
Sunlight: Grow in bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sunlight, which can burn the leaves and flowers.
Hardiness Zones: Microtis Unifolia grows best in USDA hardiness zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Microtis Unifolia is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, here are some issues to watch out for:
Spider Mites: These tiny pests can cause yellowing and wilting of the leaves. Treat with a commercial insecticide or by washing the plant with a strong stream of water.
Root Rot: Overwatering can lead to root rot, which can cause the plant to wilt and die. Avoid overwatering and provide good drainage.
Habitat
Microtis Unifolia is native to Australia and is found in a variety of habitats, including grasslands, woodlands, and heathlands. The plant prefers well-draining soils and grows best in areas with moderate rainfall.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Microtis Unifolia easy to grow?
A: Yes, Microtis Unifolia is a hardy plant that is easy to grow as long as you provide it with well-draining soil, bright but indirect light, and regular watering.
Q: How often should I fertilize Microtis Unifolia?
A: Fertilize once a month during the growing season with a balanced orchid fertilizer.
Q: Where is Microtis Unifolia found?
A: Microtis Unifolia is native to Australia and is found in a variety of habitats, including grasslands, woodlands, and heathlands.
Q: What is the best way to propagate Microtis Unifolia?
A: Microtis Unifolia can be propagated by dividing the rhizomes in the spring.
Related Plants
Here are some related plant species to Microtis Unifolia:
- Microtis Media
- Microtis Parviflora
- Microtis Rara
- Microtis Scabricula
References
- Australian Native Plants Society (Australia), 1994. Microtis Unifolia. URL: http://anpsa.org.au/m-uni.html [accessed 21 March 2022]
- Department of Agriculture, Water and the Environment, 2021. Microtis Unifolia. URL: https://www.environment.gov.au/cgi-bin/sprat/public/publicspecies.pl?taxon_id=48188 [accessed 21 March 2022]
- Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria, 2021. Microtis Unifolia. URL: https://www.rbg.vic.gov.au/dbpages/dev/vicflora/index.php/taxon/eb7e5f10-3c8c-41f2-aa7f-3e1f8abf5d64 [accessed 21 March 2022]
