Contents
Description
Platanthera Yosemitensis, commonly known as the Yosemite Bog Orchid, is a rare and beautiful plant native to the high-elevation wet meadows of the Sierra Nevada mountain range in California, USA. Its scientific name honors the Yosemite National Park, where it was first discovered and described in 1901. This orchid species is part of the Orchidaceae family and is a terrestrial, non-woody plant that grows up to 30 cm tall.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Magnoliophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Asparagales |
| Family | Orchidaceae |
| Genus | Platanthera |
| Species | Yosemitensis |
Appearance
Platanthera Yosemitensis has a green stem with several lance-shaped leaves that grow alternately along it. Its flowers are white, fragrant, and star-shaped, with a prominent spur that extends backward. The spur is about the same length as the ovary and curved slightly downward. The flowers bloom from June to August and are pollinated by nocturnal moths. The plant reproduces by seed and also by underground rhizomes.
Care Guide
Platanthera Yosemitensis is a delicate plant that requires special care to thrive. Here are some tips for its care:- Water: Keep the soil consistently moist, but not waterlogged. Use rainwater or distilled water to avoid the buildup of minerals that can harm the plant.- Fertilization: Use a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.- Soil: Use a well-draining soil mix that retains moisture. A mixture of peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite works well.- Sunlight: Provide bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sunlight, which can burn the plant.- Hardiness Zones: Platanthera Yosemitensis is hardy in USDA zones 5 to 8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Platanthera Yosemitensis is susceptible to several pests and diseases, including:- Aphids: These small, pear-shaped insects suck sap from the plant’s leaves and stems, causing them to wilt and yellow. Use insecticidal soap to control them.- Slugs and snails: These mollusks feed on the plant’s leaves and can cause extensive damage. Use bait or handpick them.- Root rot: This fungal disease is caused by overwatering and poorly drained soil. The plant’s leaves will turn yellow and wilt. Remove infected plants and improve drainage.- Powdery mildew: This fungal disease appears as a white powdery coating on the leaves. It can be controlled with fungicide.
Habitat
Platanthera Yosemitensis grows in high-elevation wet meadows, bogs, and swamps in the Sierra Nevada mountain range in California, USA. It prefers cool, moist, and shaded environments and is often found growing alongside other bog-loving plants such as sedges, rushes, and ferns.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Platanthera Yosemitensis a rare plant?A: Yes, it is a rare and endangered plant species.Q: Why is the Yosemite Bog Orchid named after Yosemite National Park?A: It was first discovered and described in the park in 1901.Q: What is the blooming season of Platanthera Yosemitensis?A: The plant blooms from June to August.Q: How is Platanthera Yosemitensis pollinated?A: The plant is pollinated by nocturnal moths.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Platanthera Yosemitensis:- Platanthera dilatata (White Bog Orchid)- Platanthera huronensis (Huron Green Orchid)- Platanthera leucophaea (Prairie White Fringed Orchid)
References
– The Xerces Society for Invertebrate Conservation. (2019). Yosemite Bog Orchid. Retrieved from https://xerces.org/yosemite-bog-orchid- California Native Plant Society. (n.d.). Platanthera yosemitensis. Retrieved from https://www.calscape.org/Platanthera-yosemitensis-(Yosemite-Bog-Orchid)?srchcr=sc5e0c7c6f3ce08- United States Department of Agriculture. (n.d.). Plant Guide: Yosemite Bog Orchid. Retrieved from https://plants.usda.gov/plantguide/pdf/pg_plyo.pdf
