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Description
Platanthera Chlorantha, commonly known as Greater Butterfly Orchid, is a species of orchids with a white flower that blooms from late May to early July. This plant is native to Europe, Asia, and North Africa and is found in damp meadows, marshes, and woodland edges. It is a perennial plant that grows up to 70cm tall and has a pleasant fragrance.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Asparagales |
| Family | Orchidaceae |
| Genus | Platanthera |
Appearance
The Greater Butterfly Orchid has a tall stem with several leaves at the base that are lance-shaped and dark green in color. Its flowers are white with a yellow-green center and have a pleasant fragrance that attracts butterflies and moths. The flower spikes can grow up to 25cm long and have between 5 and 20 flowers. The plant blooms from late May to early July and is dormant during the winter months.
Care Guide
Water: The Greater Butterfly Orchid prefers moist soil, so it should be watered regularly. Avoid overwatering as it can lead to root rot.
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.
Sunlight: The Greater Butterfly Orchid prefers partial shade and should not be exposed to direct sunlight for long periods.
Hardiness Zones: This plant is hardy in USDA zones 5 to 9.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Greater Butterfly Orchid is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it can be affected by fungal diseases such as root rot, powdery mildew, and rust. Pests such as aphids and spider mites can also infest the plant.
Habitat
The Greater Butterfly Orchid is native to Europe, Asia, and North Africa and is found in damp meadows, marshes, and woodland edges. It prefers soils that are rich in organic matter and prefers partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water my Greater Butterfly Orchid?
A: Water the plant regularly, but avoid overwatering as it can lead to root rot.
Q: What kind of soil does the Greater Butterfly Orchid prefer?
A: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
Q: What is the blooming period of the Greater Butterfly Orchid?
A: The plant blooms from late May to early July.
Q: What should I do if my Greater Butterfly Orchid is affected by root rot?
A: Remove the affected parts of the plant and improve drainage to prevent the problem from recurring.
Related Plants
- Platanthera bifolia – Lesser Butterfly Orchid
- Platanthera chlorantha var. alba – White-flowered Greater Butterfly Orchid
- Platanthera dilatata – White Bog Orchid
- Platanthera psycodes – Lesser Purple-fringed Orchid
References
- “Platanthera chlorantha (Custer) Rchb.f.” Plants of the World Online, Kew Science. Accessed 22 June 2021.
- “Greater Butterfly Orchid – Platanthera chlorantha.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed 22 June 2021.
- “Platanthera chlorantha.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 22 June 2021.
