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Description
Neottia Convallarioides, commonly known as the broad-leaved twayblade, is a species of orchid that is native to North America. It typically grows in damp, shady areas such as wet meadows, bogs, and swamps. The plant can reach a height of up to 50 cm and has a stout stem with two broad, oval leaves at the base. The flowers of Neottia Convallarioides are small and yellowish-green in color, and they bloom in the late spring and early summer.
Taxonomic Information
Domain | Eukarya |
---|---|
Kingdom | Plantae |
Phylum | Tracheophyta |
Class | Liliopsida |
Order | Asparagales |
Family | Orchidaceae |
Genus | Neottia |
Appearance
The broad-leaved twayblade has a stout stem that can reach a height of up to 50 cm. At the base of the stem are two broad, oval leaves that can be up to 15 cm long and 8 cm wide. The leaves are a deep green color and have prominent veins. The flowers of Neottia Convallarioides are small and yellowish-green in color, with a distinctive lip that is divided into three lobes. The flowers bloom in the late spring and early summer and are held on a spike that can be up to 20 cm long.
Care Guide
Neottia Convallarioides is a relatively easy plant to care for, as long as you provide it with the right growing conditions. Here are some tips for caring for your broad-leaved twayblade:
- Water: Keep the soil consistently moist, but not waterlogged. Water the plant deeply once a week, or more often if the weather is particularly hot and dry.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a month with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season.
- Soil: Plant Neottia Convallarioides in a rich, well-draining soil that is slightly acidic (pH 5.5-6.0).
- Sunlight: The broad-leaved twayblade prefers partial shade to full shade. Avoid planting it in direct sunlight, as this can cause the leaves to scorch.
- Hardiness Zones: Neottia Convallarioides is hardy in USDA zones 4-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Neottia Convallarioides is relatively pest and disease-resistant, but it can still be affected by a few common problems. Here are some of the pests and diseases that can affect the broad-leaved twayblade:
- Slugs and snails: These pests can feed on the leaves of Neottia Convallarioides, leaving large holes and ragged edges.
- Botrytis blight: This fungal disease can cause brown spots on the leaves and flowers of the plant. It is caused by poor air circulation and high humidity.
- Root rot: This disease is caused by overwatering and poor drainage. It can cause the roots of the plant to rot and die, leading to wilting and yellowing of the leaves.
Habitat
Neottia Convallarioides is native to North America and can be found growing in damp, shady areas such as wet meadows, bogs, and swamps. It prefers acidic soils and can often be found growing alongside other bog-loving plants such as sphagnum moss and pitcher plants.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Neottia Convallarioides a good plant for beginners?
A: Yes, Neottia Convallarioides is a relatively easy plant to care for and is a good choice for beginners.
Q: Can I grow Neottia Convallarioides in a container?
A: Yes, Neottia Convallarioides can be grown in a container as long as it is kept consistently moist and is not allowed to dry out.
Q: How often should I fertilize my broad-leaved twayblade?
A: Fertilize your Neottia Convallarioides plant once a month with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season.
Q: What is the best time to plant Neottia Convallarioides?
A: The best time to plant Neottia Convallarioides is in the spring, after the last frost has passed.
Related Plants
- Neottia bifolia (Lesser twayblade)
- Neottia nidus-avis (Bird’s-nest orchid)
- Neottia ovata (Dwarf twayblade)
- Neottia pubescens (Yellow lady’s-slipper)
References
- USDA Plants Database: Neottia Convallarioides. (n.d.). Retrieved August 31, 2021, from https://plants.usda.gov/home/plantProfile?symbol=NECO9
- Missouri Botanical Garden: Neottia Convallarioides. (n.d.). Retrieved August 31, 2021, from https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b975
- North Carolina State University: Neottia Convallarioides. (n.d.). Retrieved August 31, 2021, from https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/neottia-convallarioides/