Contents
Description
Spiranthes Brevilabris, commonly known as the Small-lip Ladies’ Tresses, is a beautiful orchid native to North America. It is a member of the Orchidaceae family and is known for its fragrant scent. The plant can grow up to 20 inches tall and has slender stems that bear small, white flowers. It typically blooms in late summer and early fall.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Monocots |
| Order | Asparagales |
| Family | Orchidaceae |
| Genus | Spiranthes |
Appearance
The Spiranthes Brevilabris plant has a slender stem that can grow up to 20 inches tall. The stem bears small, white flowers that are arranged in a spiral pattern. Each flower has a tubular shape and a small lip. The leaves of the plant are also long and slender, and they grow in a rosette pattern at the base of the stem. The plant is known for its fragrant scent, which is often compared to that of vanilla.
Care Guide
To care for Spiranthes Brevilabris, it is important to provide it with the right conditions. The plant prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. It also needs to be watered regularly, but it should not be allowed to sit in water. Fertilizer can be applied during the growing season to encourage healthy growth. The plant prefers full sunlight, but it can also tolerate partial shade. It is hardy in zones 5-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Spiranthes Brevilabris is generally not prone to pests and diseases. However, it can be affected by spider mites, mealybugs, and thrips. These pests can be controlled using insecticidal soap or neem oil. The plant can also be affected by fungal diseases such as root rot, which can be prevented by ensuring proper drainage and avoiding overwatering.
Habitat
Spiranthes Brevilabris is native to North America and can be found in a variety of habitats, including wet meadows, bogs, and swamps. It prefers moist soils and can tolerate both acidic and alkaline conditions. The plant is typically found in areas with full sunlight.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Spiranthes Brevilabris be grown indoors?
A: While it is possible to grow Spiranthes Brevilabris indoors, it is not recommended. The plant requires full sunlight and moist soil, which can be difficult to replicate indoors.
Q: How often should Spiranthes Brevilabris be watered?
A: Spiranthes Brevilabris should be watered regularly, but it should not be allowed to sit in water. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged.
Q: What is the best time of year to plant Spiranthes Brevilabris?
A: Spiranthes Brevilabris is typically planted in the spring or fall. The plant prefers cooler temperatures and can be stressed by high temperatures.
Q: Can Spiranthes Brevilabris be propagated?
A: Spiranthes Brevilabris can be propagated by dividing the rhizomes. This should be done in the spring or fall, and the new plants should be planted in well-drained soil.
Related Plants
- Spiranthes Cernua
- Spiranthes Lacera
- Spiranthes Magnus
- Spiranthes Tuberosa
References
- USDA Plants Database. (n.d.). Spiranthes brevilabris Lindl. Retrieved from https://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=SPBR4
- Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Spiranthes brevilabris. Retrieved from http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=d116
- North American Orchid Conservation Center. (n.d.). Spiranthes brevilabris. Retrieved from https://northamericanorchidcenter.org/spiranthes-brevilabris/
