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Description
Sarcoglottis Schaffneri is a species of orchid that belongs to the family of Orchidaceae. It is also known as the “Lucky Star” orchid due to its star-shaped flowers. This orchid is native to Central America, including Belize, Costa Rica, Guatemala, Honduras, Mexico, Nicaragua, and Panama. The plant has pseudobulbs that grow up to 20 cm tall and 4 cm wide, and it produces one or two leaves that can reach up to 30 cm in length.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Asparagales |
| Family | Orchidaceae |
| Genus | Sarcoglottis |
| Species | Sarcoglottis Schaffneri |
Appearance
Sarcoglottis Schaffneri has star-shaped flowers that are usually white or light green in color. The petals and sepals are narrow and elongated, while the lip is wider and frilly. The flowers can grow up to 4 cm in diameter and are arranged in a cluster at the top of the pseudobulb. The plant produces one or two leaves that are long and narrow, and they can grow up to 30 cm in length. The pseudobulbs are green and cylindrical, and they can grow up to 20 cm tall and 4 cm wide.
Care Guide
Water: Sarcoglottis Schaffneri prefers to be kept moist, but not wet. Water the plant when the top inch of the potting mix is dry. Avoid overwatering as it can cause root rot.Fertilization: Feed the plant with a balanced orchid fertilizer once a month during the growing season (spring and summer). Do not fertilize during the dormant season (fall and winter).Soil: Use a well-draining potting mix that is specifically formulated for orchids. The mix should be made of bark, perlite, and sphagnum moss.Sunlight: Sarcoglottis Schaffneri prefers bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sunlight as it can burn the leaves and flowers.Hardiness Zones: This orchid is hardy in USDA zones 10 to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Sarcoglottis Schaffneri is susceptible to pests such as mealybugs, scale insects, and spider mites. It can also be affected by diseases such as fungal and bacterial infections. To prevent pests and diseases, make sure to keep the plant clean and dry, and avoid overwatering.
Habitat
Sarcoglottis Schaffneri is native to Central America, where it grows in humid forests at elevations of up to 1200 meters.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water Sarcoglottis Schaffneri?
A: Water the plant when the top inch of the potting mix is dry. Avoid overwatering as it can cause root rot.
Q: What kind of soil should I use for Sarcoglottis Schaffneri?
A: Use a well-draining potting mix that is specifically formulated for orchids. The mix should be made of bark, perlite, and sphagnum moss.
Q: What are the common pests that affect Sarcoglottis Schaffneri?
A: Mealybugs, scale insects, and spider mites are common pests that affect this orchid.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Sarcoglottis Schaffneri?
A: This orchid is hardy in USDA zones 10 to 11.
Related Plants
- Sarcoglottis fasciculata
- Sarcoglottis ignea
- Sarcoglottis stergiosii
- Sarcoglottis unguiculata
References
- Orchid Species, Sarcoglottis Schaffneri
- The American Orchid Society, Sarcoglottis Schaffneri
- Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, Sarcoglottis Schaffneri
