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Description
Platanthera Bifolia, commonly known as the Lesser Butterfly Orchid, is a perennial orchid that belongs to the Orchidaceae family. It is native to Europe and Asia and is found in damp meadows, woodlands, and marshes. This beautiful orchid is popular among gardeners and is often grown as an ornamental plant due to its attractive flowers that bloom in summer.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Asparagales |
| Family | Orchidaceae |
| Genus | Platanthera |
Appearance
The Platanthera Bifolia grows up to 40 cm in height and has one or two smooth, narrow leaves that are 6-14 cm long. The flowers are small, white, and fragrant, with a butterfly-like appearance. They are arranged in a dense, spike-like inflorescence that can carry up to 40 flowers. The flowers bloom in summer, usually in July and August, and have a sweet scent that attracts pollinating insects such as moths.
Care Guide
To grow a healthy Platanthera Bifolia, follow these care guidelines:- Water: The plant prefers moist soil, so water it regularly but avoid overwatering.- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.- Soil: The plant prefers a neutral to slightly acidic soil that is rich in organic matter.- Sunlight: The plant prefers partial shade to full sun exposure.- Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 3-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Platanthera Bifolia is not known to have any serious pest or disease problems. However, it can be susceptible to fungal diseases such as root rot if the soil is too wet. To prevent this, make sure the soil is well-draining and avoid overwatering.
Habitat
The Platanthera Bifolia is native to Europe and Asia and can be found in damp meadows, woodlands, and marshes. It prefers moist soil and partial shade to full sun exposure.
Question and Answer
Q: Can the Platanthera Bifolia be grown in a container?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in a container. Use a well-draining potting mix and water the plant regularly.Q: How often should I fertilize the plant?
A: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.Q: Does the plant attract pollinators?
A: Yes, the plant has a sweet scent that attracts pollinating insects such as moths.Q: Can the plant tolerate full sun exposure?
A: Yes, the plant can tolerate full sun exposure, but it prefers partial shade.
Related Plants
Other plants in the Platanthera genus include:- Platanthera Chlorantha (Greater Butterfly Orchid)- Platanthera Nordsieckiana (Nordsieck’s Orchid)- Platanthera Psycodes (Small Purple Fringed Orchid)
References
– “Platanthera Bifolia.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=n910.- “Platanthera Bifolia.” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/plants/8279/i-platanthera-bifolia-i/details.
