Contents
Description
Nervilia Platychila is a rare and unique plant species that belongs to the family Orchidaceae. It is native to Southeast Asia and is commonly found in Thailand, Vietnam, and Malaysia. The plant is also known as the “Lady Slipper Orchid” due to the shape of its flowers. Nervilia Platychila is a terrestrial orchid, which means it grows on the ground and not on trees like other orchids.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Magnoliophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Asparagales |
| Family | Orchidaceae |
| Genus | Nervilia |
| Species | Platychila |
Appearance
Nervilia Platychila is a small, herbaceous plant that grows up to 20 cm tall. It has a single, round, and flat leaf that can grow up to 15 cm in diameter. The leaf is green, smooth, and has a glossy surface. The flower stem grows from the center of the leaf, and it can produce up to three flowers per stem. The flowers are pink or purple with a white lip and have a slipper-like shape. The flowers can grow up to 4 cm long and 2 cm wide. The plant blooms from late summer to early fall.
Care Guide
Nervilia Platychila requires special care to thrive. Here are some tips for caring for this unique plant:- Water: The plant prefers a well-draining soil that is moist but not waterlogged. Water the plant when the top inch of soil is dry.- Fertilization: Use a balanced fertilizer with equal parts nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Fertilize the plant every two weeks during the growing season.- Soil: The plant prefers a well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. Use a soil mix that is designed for orchids.- Sunlight: The plant prefers filtered or dappled sunlight. Avoid direct sunlight as it can burn the leaves and flowers.- Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 11-12.
Common Pests & Diseases
Nervilia Platychila is susceptible to pests and diseases like any other plant. Some common pests that can infect the plant include spider mites, aphids, and mealybugs. These pests can be controlled using insecticidal soap or neem oil. The plant is also vulnerable to fungal diseases like root rot. To prevent root rot, avoid overwatering the plant and ensure proper drainage.
Habitat
Nervilia Platychila is native to Southeast Asia and is commonly found in Thailand, Vietnam, and Malaysia. The plant grows in shady areas like forests, understory, and rocky slopes.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Nervilia Platychila be grown indoors?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown indoors as long as it is provided with enough light and humidity.
Q: How often should I fertilize Nervilia Platychila?
A: Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season.
Q: What is the best soil mix for Nervilia Platychila?
A: The plant prefers a well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. Use a soil mix that is designed for orchids.
Q: How often should I water Nervilia Platychila?
A: Water the plant when the top inch of soil is dry.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Nervilia Platychila:- Nervilia Crociformis- Nervilia Plicata- Nervilia Fordii- Nervilia Aragoana
References
– World Checklist of Selected Plant Families. (2021). Nervilia Platychila. Retrieved from http://wcsp.science.kew.org/namedetail.do?name_id=135278- Orchids Info. (n.d.). Nervilia Platychila. Retrieved from https://www.orchidsinfo.eu/en/nervilia/114-nervilia-platychila.html- Plant Delights Nursery. (n.d.). Nervilia Platychila. Retrieved from https://www.plantdelights.com/products/nervilia-platychila
