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Description
Platanthera Stricta, commonly known as the eastern prairie fringed orchid, is a rare and beautiful orchid species native to North America. It is a perennial herb that can grow up to 120 cm in height and produces a spike-like inflorescence of fragrant, white flowers. The flowers have a fringed lip that gives the plant its common name. This orchid blooms in mid to late summer and is pollinated by nocturnal moths.
Taxonomic Information
Domain | Eukarya |
---|---|
Kingdom | Plantae |
Phylum | Magnoliophyta |
Class | Liliopsida |
Order | Asparagales |
Family | Orchidaceae |
Genus | Platanthera |
Species | Platanthera stricta |
Appearance
Platanthera Stricta is a tall and slender orchid with lance-shaped leaves that grow up to 20 cm in length. The flowers have a distinctive fringed lip that is white in color and can measure up to 4 cm across. The inflorescence is a spike-like cluster of flowers that can reach up to 60 cm in length. The plant has a delicate and graceful appearance, and its flowers emit a sweet fragrance at night.
Care Guide
Platanthera Stricta is a rare and endangered orchid species that requires special care to thrive. Here are some tips for caring for this plant:
Water: The plant prefers moist soil but does not tolerate standing water. Water the plant regularly during the growing season, and reduce watering during the dormant season.
Fertilization: The plant does not require fertilizer, but you can use a balanced fertilizer during the growing season to promote growth.
Soil: The plant prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. Use a potting mix that is specifically designed for orchids.
Sunlight: Platanthera Stricta prefers bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch the leaves and flowers.
Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 4 to 8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Platanthera Stricta is susceptible to a few pests and diseases, including:
Spider mites: These tiny pests can infest the plant and cause yellowing and wilting of the leaves. Use an insecticidal soap or neem oil to control spider mites.
Fungal diseases: The plant is susceptible to fungal diseases such as root rot and leaf spot. Ensure that the soil is well-drained and avoid overwatering the plant to prevent fungal infections.
Habitat
Platanthera Stricta is native to North America and can be found in prairies, meadows, and wetlands. The plant prefers moist soil and requires a specific type of mycorrhizal fungi to survive. This orchid species is endangered due to habitat loss and fragmentation, and conservation efforts are underway to protect its natural habitat.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Platanthera Stricta easy to grow?
A: Platanthera Stricta requires specific care to thrive, and it is not considered an easy plant to grow.
Q: Can Platanthera Stricta be grown indoors?
A: Platanthera Stricta can be grown indoors under the right conditions, such as bright, indirect light and a humid environment.
Q: Does Platanthera Stricta require pruning?
A: Platanthera Stricta does not require pruning, but you can remove dead or yellowing leaves to keep the plant looking neat.
Q: How do I propagate Platanthera Stricta?
A: Platanthera Stricta can be propagated by dividing the plant’s rhizomes in the spring.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Platanthera Stricta:
- Platanthera leucophaea
- Platanthera ciliaris
- Platanthera lacera
- Platanthera praeclara
References
- USDA Plants Database. (n.d.). Platanthera stricta. Retrieved from https://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=PLST
- Illinois Wildflowers. (n.d.). Platanthera stricta. Retrieved from https://www.illinoiswildflowers.info/grasses/plants/e_prairie_orchid.html
- The Xerces Society for Invertebrate Conservation. (n.d.). Eastern Prairie Fringed Orchid. Retrieved from https://xerces.org/endangered-species/eastern-prairie-fringed-orchid