Contents
Description
Sarcochilus Australis, also known as the Orange Blossom Orchid, is a stunning epiphytic orchid species native to eastern Australia. It belongs to the Orchidaceae family and is highly prized for its beautiful, fragrant flowers.The plant has a compact growth habit and produces small, fan-shaped leaves that are bright green in color. Its flowers, which grow on short spikes, are typically white with orange and red markings on the lip. They are highly fragrant and emit a sweet, citrusy scent that is reminiscent of orange blossoms.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Asparagales |
| Family | Orchidaceae |
| Genus | Sarcochilus |
Appearance
Sarcochilus Australis is a small, compact plant that typically grows to a height of 20-30 cm. It has fan-shaped leaves that are bright green in color and grow in a rosette pattern. The leaves are around 5-10 cm long and 1-2 cm wide.The flowers of Sarcochilus Australis are highly fragrant and grow on short spikes that emerge from the base of the plant. The flowers are typically white with orange and red markings on the lip. They are around 2-3 cm in diameter and have a sweet, citrusy scent that is reminiscent of orange blossoms.
Care Guide
Sarcochilus Australis is a relatively easy plant to care for, as long as you provide it with the right conditions. Here are some tips on how to care for this beautiful orchid:Water: Sarcochilus Australis prefers to be kept moist but not soggy. Water it thoroughly once a week, allowing the water to drain out of the bottom of the pot. Avoid getting water on the leaves, as this can cause rot.Fertilization: Feed your Sarcochilus Australis with a balanced orchid fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season (spring and summer). Use a fertilizer with a higher nitrogen content during the early part of the growing season, and a fertilizer with a higher phosphorous content during the later part.Soil: Sarcochilus Australis is an epiphytic orchid, which means it grows on other plants rather than in soil. It prefers a well-draining potting mix, such as a mixture of bark, perlite, and sphagnum moss.Sunlight: Sarcochilus Australis prefers bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sunlight, as this can burn the leaves.Hardiness Zones: Sarcochilus Australis is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Sarcochilus Australis is susceptible to a few common pests and diseases, including:Mealybugs: These small, white insects can be found on the leaves and stem of the plant. They suck the sap from the plant, causing it to weaken and become susceptible to disease.Scale: Scale insects are small, brown or black insects that attach themselves to the leaves and stems of the plant. They can be difficult to control and can cause significant damage to the plant.Black Rot: This fungal disease is caused by overwatering or poor drainage. It causes the leaves and stems of the plant to turn black and mushy.
Habitat
Sarcochilus Australis is native to eastern Australia, where it grows in the cool, moist forests of the region. It is an epiphytic orchid, which means it grows on other plants rather than in soil. It is often found growing on the trunks and branches of trees, where it receives filtered sunlight and plenty of moisture.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Sarcochilus Australis be grown indoors?
A: Yes, Sarcochilus Australis can be grown indoors as long as it receives bright, indirect light and is kept moist.Q: How often should I fertilize my Sarcochilus Australis?
A: Feed your Sarcochilus Australis with a balanced orchid fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season (spring and summer).Q: What is the best potting mix for Sarcochilus Australis?
A: Sarcochilus Australis prefers a well-draining potting mix, such as a mixture of bark, perlite, and sphagnum moss.Q: How do I propagate Sarcochilus Australis?
A: Sarcochilus Australis can be propagated by dividing the plant at the roots and repotting each division in a separate pot.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Sarcochilus Australis:
- Sarcochilus Fitzhart
- Sarcochilus Hartmannii
- Sarcochilus Orchidglade
- Sarcochilus Dilatatus
References
- “Sarcochilus Australis.” Australian Orchid Nursery. www.australianorchids.com.au.
- “Orange Blossom Orchid Care.” Orchids Made Easy. www.orchidsmadeeasy.com.
- “Sarcochilus Australis.” Missouri Botanical Garden. www.missouribotanicalgarden.org.
