Ornithoboea Henryi

Description

Ornithoboea Henryi, also known as Henry’s bird’s nest, is a rare and stunning plant native to China. It is a member of the Gesneriaceae family and is a perennial herb that grows up to 20 cm tall. It is an epiphytic plant, meaning it grows on other plants, and is a popular choice for indoor gardening.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Ornithoboea Henryi has beautiful and unique foliage. Its leaves are thick and leathery, with a glossy dark green color on top and a lighter green color on the underside. The leaves grow in a rosette formation and can grow up to 20 cm long and 5 cm wide. The plant produces beautiful, funnel-shaped flowers that can range from white to pink and purple. The flowers are fragrant and bloom in late spring to early summer.

Care Guide

Ornithoboea Henryi is a relatively easy plant to care for, but it does have specific needs to thrive.Water: The plant prefers to be kept evenly moist but not waterlogged. Water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry. Be sure to use room temperature water to avoid shocking the plant.Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A mixture of peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite is ideal.Sunlight: The plant prefers bright, indirect light. Direct sunlight can scorch the leaves.Hardiness Zones: Ornithoboea Henryi is hardy in zones 10-11. It is best grown indoors in cooler zones.

Common Pests & Diseases

Ornithoboea Henryi is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it can be susceptible to spider mites and mealybugs. To prevent these pests, keep the plant clean and free of debris. If an infestation occurs, treat the plant with insecticidal soap.

Habitat

Ornithoboea Henryi is native to the Yunnan province in China. It grows in the understory of forests and on the trunks of other plants.

Question and Answer

Q: Can Ornithoboea Henryi be grown outdoors?
A: Ornithoboea Henryi is hardy in zones 10-11 and can be grown outdoors in a shaded location.Q: How often should I fertilize Ornithoboea Henryi?
A: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.Q: Can Ornithoboea Henryi be propagated?
A: Yes, Ornithoboea Henryi can be propagated through leaf cuttings.Q: How often should I water Ornithoboea Henryi?
A: The plant prefers to be kept evenly moist but not waterlogged. Water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry.

Related Plants

Other plants in the Gesneriaceae family include:

• Achimenes
• Columnea
• Episcia
• Gloxinia
• Saintpaulia

References

• “Ornithoboea Henryi.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=292802&isprofile=0&basic=ornithoboea%20henryi.
• “Henry’s Bird’s Nest.” The Sill, www.thesill.com/products/henrys-birds-nest.
• “Ornithoboea Henryi.” World Checklist of Selected Plant Families, Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, wcsfp.worldfloraonline.org/taxon/wcsfp/Ornithoboea_henryi.