Contents
Description
Pterostylis Parviflora, commonly known as the Greenhood Orchid, is a species of terrestrial orchid native to Australia. It belongs to the Orchidaceae family and is known for its unique appearance and beautiful flowers. The name “Greenhood” comes from the shape of its flower, which resembles a hood or a helmet.This plant has a single leaf that is a rosette at its base. The leaf can grow up to 10 cm long and 3 cm wide, and has a pale green color with prominent veins. The flower stem can grow up to 40 cm tall, with a single flower that is 2-3 cm long and 1-1.5 cm wide. The flower is green in color with a white or yellow stripe down the middle, and has a distinctive hood-like shape.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Magnoliophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Asparagales |
| Family | Orchidaceae |
| Genus | Pterostylis |
| Species | Parviflora |
Appearance
Pterostylis Parviflora has a unique appearance that sets it apart from other orchids. The plant has a single leaf that is a rosette at its base, with a pale green color and prominent veins. The flower stem can grow up to 40 cm tall, with a single flower that is green in color with a white or yellow stripe down the middle. The flower has a distinctive hood-like shape, which gives the plant its name “Greenhood”. The flower is 2-3 cm long and 1-1.5 cm wide, and blooms from May to September.
Care Guide
Pterostylis Parviflora is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to grow. Here are some tips for caring for this plant:- Water: Water the plant regularly, but make sure the soil is well-drained. Do not let the soil become too wet or too dry.- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.- Soil: Use a well-draining soil mix that is rich in organic matter.- Sunlight: The plant prefers partial shade to full shade.- Hardiness Zones: Pterostylis Parviflora is hardy in zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Pterostylis Parviflora is relatively pest and disease-resistant. However, here are some common pests and diseases to look out for:- Slugs and snails: These pests can damage the leaves and flowers of the plant. Use a slug and snail bait to control them.- Spider mites: These pests can cause yellowing and browning of the leaves. Use an insecticidal soap to control them.- Root rot: Overwatering can lead to root rot, which can be fatal to the plant. Make sure the soil is well-draining and do not let the soil become too wet.
Habitat
Pterostylis Parviflora is native to Australia and can be found in a variety of habitats, including forests, woodlands, and heathlands. The plant prefers well-drained soil and partial to full shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Pterostylis Parviflora be grown indoors?
A: Yes, Pterostylis Parviflora can be grown indoors as long as it is given enough light and moisture.
Q: How often should I fertilize my Pterostylis Parviflora?
A: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: What is the best soil mix for Pterostylis Parviflora?
A: Use a well-draining soil mix that is rich in organic matter.
Q: How do I control spider mites on my Pterostylis Parviflora?
A: Use an insecticidal soap to control spider mites.
Related Plants
– Pterostylis Curta- Pterostylis Nutans- Pterostylis Pedunculata- Pterostylis Xiphoides
References
– “Pterostylis Parviflora”. Australian Native Plants Society (Australia).- “Pterostylis Parviflora – Greenhood Orchid”. Gardening Know How.- “Pterostylis Parviflora”. Orchids Online.
