Contents
Description
Spathoglottis Pacifica is a stunning orchid species native to tropical and subtropical Asia. It is also commonly known as Ground Orchid due to its ability to grow on the ground instead of being epiphytic like most orchids. The plant is popular among gardeners for its beautiful flowers that come in various colors, including yellow, pink, purple, and white. It blooms in the summer and fall, producing long-lasting flowers that are perfect for adding a pop of color to your garden.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Asparagales |
| Family | Orchidaceae |
| Genus | Spathoglottis |
Appearance
Spathoglottis Pacifica is a terrestrial orchid that can grow up to 60 cm tall. It has long, thin leaves that are green and glossy, growing from a pseudobulb. The plant produces tall, erect spikes that bear numerous flowers. The flowers are about 5 cm in diameter and have a lip that is slightly larger than the other petals. The colors of the flowers vary, but most commonly they are yellow, pink, purple, or white. The plant blooms in the summer and fall, producing long-lasting flowers that add a beautiful touch of color to any garden.
Care Guide
Spathoglottis Pacifica requires specific care to thrive, but it’s not too difficult to care for if you follow these guidelines:- Water: Water the plant regularly, but don’t let it sit in water. Allow the top of the soil to dry out before watering again.- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant regularly during the growing season, but not during the dormant period. Use a balanced fertilizer, diluted to half its strength.- Soil: Use a well-draining soil mix that’s rich in organic matter.- Sunlight: Spathoglottis Pacifica prefers bright, indirect sunlight. Avoid direct sunlight as it can damage the leaves and flowers.- Hardiness Zones: This plant is hardy in USDA zones 9b to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Spathoglottis Pacifica is susceptible to several pests and diseases, including:- Spider mites: These tiny pests feed on the plant sap, causing yellowing and weakening of the leaves. Use a miticide to eliminate them.- Scale insects: These pests attach themselves to the leaves and feed on the sap, causing yellowing and wilting. Use an insecticide to eliminate them.- Bacterial and fungal diseases: These can be caused by overwatering, poor soil drainage, or insufficient air circulation. Use a fungicide to treat these diseases.
Habitat
Spathoglottis Pacifica is native to tropical and subtropical regions of Asia, including the Philippines, Indonesia, and Malaysia. It grows in moist areas, such as swamps, forests, and grasslands.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Spathoglottis Pacifica tolerate direct sunlight?
A: No, it prefers bright, indirect sunlight. Direct sunlight can damage the leaves and flowers.
Q: How often should I fertilize my Spathoglottis Pacifica?
A: Fertilize the plant regularly during the growing season, but not during the dormant period. Use a balanced fertilizer, diluted to half its strength.
Q: How do I prevent spider mites on my Spathoglottis Pacifica?
A: Use a miticide to eliminate spider mites. Also, make sure to keep the plant well-watered and the air humid to prevent infestations.
Q: What is the origin of Spathoglottis Pacifica?
A: It is native to tropical and subtropical regions of Asia, including the Philippines, Indonesia, and Malaysia.
Related Plants
– Spathoglottis plicata- Spathoglottis aurea- Spathoglottis lutea- Spathoglottis kimballiana
References
– “Spathoglottis Pacifica.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed August 20, 2021. http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=a293.- “Spathoglottis Pacifica.” Gardening Know How. Accessed August 20, 2021. https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/bulbs/spathoglottis/spathoglottis-pacifica-care.htm.- “Spathoglottis Pacifica.” World Checklist of Selected Plant Families. Accessed August 20, 2021. http://wcsp.science.kew.org/namedetail.do?name_id=189344.
