Contents
Description
Scleroglossum Pusillum is a small, epiphytic orchid species native to Southeast Asia. It belongs to the family Orchidaceae and is known for its beautiful flowers that bloom in shades of pink, purple, and white. The name Scleroglossum comes from the Greek words “skleros” meaning hard and “glossa” meaning tongue, referring to the tough texture of its leaves. The species name Pusillum means tiny, which aptly describes the size of its flowers.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Asparagales |
| Family | Orchidaceae |
| Genus | Scleroglossum |
Appearance
Scleroglossum Pusillum has small, oval-shaped pseudobulbs that are 1-2 cm in length. The leaves are leathery, dark green, and have a tough texture. The flowers grow on a thin, wiry stem and are about 1 cm in diameter. They come in shades of pink, purple, and white and have a delicate, sweet fragrance. The lip of the flower is ruffled and has a deep purple spot in the center.
Care Guide
Water: Scleroglossum Pusillum prefers to be kept moist, but not wet. Water it regularly and make sure the soil is well-draining.
Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a month with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season.
Soil: Scleroglossum Pusillum prefers a well-draining, coarse soil that is enriched with organic matter.
Sunlight: The plant prefers bright, indirect light and should be protected from direct sunlight.
Hardiness Zones: Scleroglossum Pusillum grows best in hardiness zones 10-12.
Common Pests & Diseases
Scleroglossum Pusillum is susceptible to spider mites, mealybugs, and scale insects. It may also develop leaf spots or root rot if overwatered or exposed to too much humidity.
Habitat
Scleroglossum Pusillum is native to Southeast Asia, including Thailand, Malaysia, and Indonesia. It grows as an epiphyte on trees in tropical rainforests.
Question and Answer
Q. How often should I water my Scleroglossum Pusillum?
A. Water the plant regularly, but make sure the soil is well-draining and not wet.
Q. What kind of soil does Scleroglossum Pusillum prefer?
A. The plant prefers a well-draining, coarse soil that is enriched with organic matter.
Q. What are the common pests and diseases that affect Scleroglossum Pusillum?
A. The plant is susceptible to spider mites, mealybugs, and scale insects. It may also develop leaf spots or root rot if overwatered or exposed to too much humidity.
Q. What is the hardiness zone for Scleroglossum Pusillum?
A. The plant grows best in hardiness zones 10-12.
Related Plants
- Scleroglossum Sulawesiense
- Scleroglossum Wallichianum
- Scleroglossum Ovoideum
References
- “Scleroglossum Pusillum.” Orchids Wiki, 2021, orchids.fandom.com/wiki/Scleroglossum_Pusillum.
- “Scleroglossum Pusillum.” World of Flowering Plants, 2021, www.worldoffloweringplants.com/scleroglossum-pusillum/.
- “Scleroglossum Pusillum.” Orchid Species, 2021, www.orchidspecies.com/scleroglossumpusillum.htm.
