Contents
1. Description
Pterostylis Concinna, commonly known as the Maroon-hooded Pterostylis, is a small, terrestrial orchid native to Australia. It has a single, fleshy leaf that grows up to 8 cm long and 1 cm wide. The plant produces a single flower that is 2-3 cm long, with a maroon hood and a greenish-yellow labellum. The flower blooms from July to early October.
2. Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Asparagales |
| Family | Orchidaceae |
| Genus | Pterostylis |
3. Appearance
Pterostylis Concinna has a distinctive appearance due to its maroon hood and greenish-yellow labellum. The fleshy leaf that grows from the center of the plant is dark green and has a glossy texture. The flower stem is thin and can grow up to 10 cm tall. The flower itself is small and delicate, with a maroon hood that covers the reproductive organs. The greenish-yellow labellum extends from under the hood and serves as a landing pad for pollinators.
4. Care Guide
To care for Pterostylis Concinna, it is important to provide the right growing conditions. The plant prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic, with a pH of 6.0-6.5. It should be watered regularly, but the soil should be allowed to dry out slightly between waterings. Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season, using a balanced orchid fertilizer. Pterostylis Concinna prefers bright, indirect light and should be kept in a location that receives at least 4-6 hours of light per day. It is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
5. Common Pests & Diseases
Pterostylis Concinna is susceptible to a few common pests and diseases. Spider mites, mealybugs, and aphids can all infest the plant and cause damage. To prevent these pests, keep the plant in a clean and well-ventilated location. If an infestation occurs, treat it with an insecticidal soap or neem oil. The plant may also be susceptible to root rot if it is overwatered or kept in soil that is too moist. To prevent root rot, allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.
6. Habitat
Pterostylis Concinna is native to the coastal regions of Western Australia, where it grows in sandy soils in heathland and woodland habitats. It prefers well-draining soil and is often found growing in areas with low rainfall.
7. Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water Pterostylis Concinna?
A: Water the plant regularly, but allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.
Q: What kind of fertilizer should I use for Pterostylis Concinna?
A: Use a balanced orchid fertilizer and apply it once a month during the growing season.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Pterostylis Concinna?
A: Pterostylis Concinna is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Q: What kind of light does Pterostylis Concinna prefer?
A: Pterostylis Concinna prefers bright, indirect light and should be kept in a location that receives at least 4-6 hours of light per day.
9. Related Plants
- Pterostylis Banksii
- Pterostylis Curta
- Pterostylis Rostellata
- Pterostylis Xylorrhiza
10. References
- “Pterostylis Concinna.” Australian Native Orchids, Society for Growing Australian Plants.
- “Pterostylis Concinna.” Orchids Online, Orchids Made Easy.
- “Pterostylis Concinna.” FloraBase, Western Australian Herbarium.
