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Description
Spathoglottis Plicata, commonly known as the Philippine ground orchid, is a species of orchid native to the Philippines. It belongs to the family Orchidaceae and is known for its beautiful, long-lasting flowers that come in shades of pink, purple, and white. The plant produces pseudobulbs that can grow up to 30 cm tall, with each pseudobulb bearing several leaves and a spike of flowers.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Asparagales |
| Family | Orchidaceae |
| Genus | Spathoglottis |
Appearance
Spathoglottis Plicata has a unique appearance that makes it stand out from other orchids. The plant produces tall pseudobulbs that resemble bamboo shoots, with each pseudobulb bearing several long, narrow leaves. The inflorescence is a spike of flowers that can reach up to 60 cm tall, with each spike bearing up to 20 flowers. The flowers are large and showy, measuring up to 6 cm across, and come in shades of pink, purple, and white. The lip of the flower is white with a yellow or purple throat, and the petals and sepals are similar in color and shape.
Care Guide
Spathoglottis Plicata is a relatively easy plant to care for, making it a popular choice for gardeners and orchid enthusiasts. Here are some care tips to keep your plant healthy and thriving:
Water: Water your plant regularly, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged. During the growing season, water more frequently and reduce watering during the dormant season.
Fertilization: Fertilize your plant every two weeks during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. Use a fertilizer with a high phosphorus content to promote flowering.
Soil: Spathoglottis Plicata prefers well-draining soil, such as a mix of peat moss, perlite, and bark. It can also be grown in a pot with orchid mix.
Sunlight: The plant prefers bright, indirect sunlight, but can tolerate partial shade. Avoid direct sunlight, as it can scorch the leaves.
Hardiness Zones: Spathoglottis Plicata is hardy in USDA zones 10-11, but can be grown in other zones as an indoor plant or in a greenhouse.
Common Pests & Diseases
Spathoglottis Plicata is susceptible to a few pests and diseases, including:
Spider mites: These tiny pests can cause yellowing and stippling of the leaves. Treat with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Slugs and snails: These pests can eat holes in the leaves and flowers. Use slug bait or traps to control them.
Rot: Overwatering can cause the roots to rot. Avoid overwatering and ensure good drainage.
Habitat
Spathoglottis Plicata is native to the Philippines and can be found growing in a variety of habitats, including lowland forests, grasslands, and disturbed areas. It prefers moist, well-drained soil and can tolerate partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water my Spathoglottis Plicata?
A: Water your plant regularly, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged. During the growing season, water more frequently and reduce watering during the dormant season.
Q: Can Spathoglottis Plicata be grown indoors?
A: Yes, Spathoglottis Plicata can be grown indoors as long as it receives bright, indirect sunlight and is watered regularly.
Q: How do I fertilize my Spathoglottis Plicata?
A: Fertilize your plant every two weeks during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. Use a fertilizer with a high phosphorus content to promote flowering.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Spathoglottis Plicata?
A: Spathoglottis Plicata is hardy in USDA zones 10-11, but can be grown in other zones as an indoor plant or in a greenhouse.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Spathoglottis Plicata:
- Spathoglottis aurea
- Spathoglottis kimballiana
- Spathoglottis plicata var. purpurea
- Spathoglottis vanoverberghii
References
- “Spathoglottis Plicata.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/plantfinder/plantfindersearch.aspx?taxonid=281740.
- “Spathoglottis Plicata – Philippine Ground Orchid.” Orchids Made Easy, 24 Mar. 2021, www.orchidsmadeeasy.com/spathoglottis-plicata/.
- Ramirez, Ron. “Spathoglottis Plicata: How to Grow and Care for Philippine Ground Orchid.” Plant Care Today, 13 May 2021, plantcaretoday.com/spathoglottis-plicata-orchid.html.
