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Description
Platanthera Dilatata Var. Leucostachys, commonly known as the White Bog Orchid, is a species of orchid that belongs to the family Orchidaceae. It is native to North America, where it is found growing in moist soils in bogs, fens, and wet meadows. The plant can grow up to 60 cm tall and has a single stem with several lance-shaped leaves, which are 10-20 cm long and 1-2 cm wide. The White Bog Orchid produces a dense spike of white flowers, which are fragrant and bloom in late spring to early summer.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Asparagales |
| Family | Orchidaceae |
| Genus | Platanthera |
| Species | Dilatata |
| Variety | Leucostachys |
Appearance
The White Bog Orchid has a striking appearance, with its tall stem, lance-shaped leaves, and dense spike of fragrant white flowers. The stem can grow up to 60 cm tall and is usually unbranched. The leaves are long and narrow, with a lance-like shape, and can grow up to 20 cm long and 2 cm wide. The flowers are arranged in a dense spike at the top of the stem and can have up to 40 individual blooms. Each flower has three sepals and three petals, with the upper petal forming a hood over the reproductive organs. The lip or labellum of the flower is white, with a fringed edge, and is divided into three lobes.
Care Guide
To ensure the best possible growth and health of your White Bog Orchid, it is important to provide proper care. Here are some tips:Water: The plant needs to be kept moist at all times, as it grows in wet soil in the wild. Make sure to water regularly, but avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot.Fertilization: Use a balanced fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season to help the plant thrive.Soil: The White Bog Orchid prefers moist, well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. The plant can grow in acidic to neutral soil.Sunlight: The plant prefers partial to full shade, as it grows in shaded areas in the wild. Avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch the leaves.Hardiness Zones: The White Bog Orchid is hardy in zones 3-7, which covers most of North America.
Common Pests & Diseases
The White Bog Orchid is generally free from pests and diseases, but there are a few issues to watch out for:Slugs and Snails: These pests can damage the leaves and flowers of the plant. Use slug and snail bait to control the problem.Root Rot: Overwatering can lead to root rot, which can kill the plant. Make sure to provide proper drainage and avoid overwatering.
Habitat
The White Bog Orchid is native to North America, where it grows in moist soils in bogs, fens, and wet meadows. The plant can be found in Alaska, Canada, and the northern United States, including the Great Lakes region. It prefers partially shaded areas and is often found growing alongside other wetland plants.
Question and Answer
Q: Can the White Bog Orchid be grown indoors?
A: While it is possible to grow the plant indoors, it can be difficult to provide the proper growing conditions, such as the moist soil and partial shade it prefers.Q: How often should I fertilize my White Bog Orchid?
A: Use a balanced fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season to help the plant thrive.Q: Is the White Bog Orchid a threatened species?
A: The White Bog Orchid is not currently listed as a threatened species, but it is important to protect its natural habitat.Q: Can the White Bog Orchid be propagated by division?
A: Yes, the plant can be propagated by dividing the rhizomes in the spring.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to the White Bog Orchid:- Platanthera Huronensis (Tall White Bog Orchid)- Platanthera Hyperborea (Northern Green Bog Orchid)- Platanthera Obtusata (Blunt-leaved Orchid)
References
– USDA Plants Database: Platanthera Dilatata var. Leucostachys- Minnesota Wildflowers: Platanthera Dilatata var. Leucostachys- Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center: Platanthera Dilatata var. Leucostachys
