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Description
Odontochilus Elwesii is a species of orchid that is native to the Himalayas, specifically in Bhutan, India, and Nepal. It is a small orchid that grows up to 15cm tall and blooms in summer. This orchid has a unique characteristic of having a single leaf that grows up to 10cm long and 2.5cm wide, which is oblong-lanceolate in shape. It produces a solitary flower on a thin, erect stem that can grow up to 10cm tall. The flower is a beautiful deep purple with a yellow lip that has a white margin.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Asparagales |
| Family | Orchidaceae |
| Genus | Odontochilus |
| Species | Odontochilus Elwesii |
Appearance
Odontochilus Elwesii is a small orchid that has a single oblong-lanceolate leaf that grows up to 10cm long and 2.5cm wide. It produces a solitary flower on a thin, erect stem that can grow up to 10cm tall. The flower is a beautiful deep purple with a yellow lip that has a white margin. The flower has a unique shape that resembles a bird in flight. The petals and sepals are narrow and elongated, while the lip is wider and has a fringed margin.
Care Guide
Odontochilus Elwesii is a relatively easy orchid to care for. Here are some tips on how to care for this beautiful plant:Water: This orchid prefers to be kept moist but not wet. Water it once a week during the growing season and reduce watering during the dormant season.Fertilization: Fertilize the plant every two weeks during the growing season using a balanced orchid fertilizer.Soil: Odontochilus Elwesii prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. Use an orchid mix or a mix of bark, perlite, and sphagnum moss.Sunlight: This orchid prefers bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sunlight as it can scorch the leaves.Hardiness Zones: Odontochilus Elwesii can be grown in USDA hardiness zones 10-12.
Common Pests & Diseases
Like all plants, Odontochilus Elwesii is susceptible to pests and diseases. Here are some common pests and diseases to watch out for:Pests: Mealybugs, scale insects, and spider mites are common pests that can infest this orchid. Use insecticidal soap to control infestations.Diseases: This orchid is susceptible to root rot caused by overwatering. Ensure that the soil is well-draining and reduce watering during the dormant season.
Habitat
Odontochilus Elwesii is native to the Himalayas, specifically in Bhutan, India, and Nepal. It grows in the understory of forests and on mossy rocks at elevations of 1800-3000m.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water my Odontochilus Elwesii?
A: Water this orchid once a week during the growing season and reduce watering during the dormant season.Q: What kind of soil does Odontochilus Elwesii prefer?
A: Odontochilus Elwesii prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. Use an orchid mix or a mix of bark, perlite, and sphagnum moss.Q: What are some common pests that can infest Odontochilus Elwesii?
A: Mealybugs, scale insects, and spider mites are common pests that can infest this orchid.Q: Where is Odontochilus Elwesii native to?
A: Odontochilus Elwesii is native to the Himalayas, specifically in Bhutan, India, and Nepal.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Odontochilus Elwesii:- Odontochilus Sanguineus- Odontochilus Uliginosus- Odontochilus Parishii- Odontochilus Scrophulariifolius
References
– “Odontochilus Elwesii” Kew Science. Retrieved from https://www.kew.org/science/search-resources/odontochilus-elwesii- “Odontochilus Elwesii” OrchidRoots. Retrieved from https://orchidroots.org/odontochilus-elwesii/
