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Description
Spiranthes Casei, also known as Case’s Ladies’-tresses, is a rare species of orchid that is native to the southeastern United States. It was first described in 2001 by Kew botanist Alec M. Pridgeon and his colleagues. The plant is named after Dr. Paul S. Case, a renowned botanist and orchidologist who spent his entire career studying the orchids of the southeastern United States.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Asparagales |
| Family | Orchidaceae |
| Genus | Spiranthes |
| Species | Casei |
Appearance
Spiranthes Casei is a small, perennial orchid that typically grows to a height of 8-25 cm. The plant has a single, erect stem that is covered in small, green leaves. The flowers are arranged in a spiral pattern around the stem and are white in color, with a yellow or greenish lip. The flowers have a sweet fragrance and bloom in late summer and early fall.
Care Guide
Spiranthes Casei is a relatively easy plant to care for. It requires moderate watering, fertilization, and sunlight. The plant prefers well-drained soil and is hardy in USDA zones 7-9.
- Water: Water the plant when the soil feels dry to the touch. Do not overwater, as this can lead to root rot.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: Spiranthes Casei prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers partial shade, but can tolerate full sun in cooler climates.
- Hardiness Zones: Spiranthes Casei is hardy in USDA zones 7-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Spiranthes Casei is relatively resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to fungal diseases if it is overwatered or if the soil does not drain properly. Insects such as aphids and spider mites can also be a problem, particularly if the plant is grown in a greenhouse or indoors.
Habitat
Spiranthes Casei is native to the southeastern United States, where it is typically found in wetlands, bogs, and other moist habitats. The plant prefers acidic soils and is often found growing in association with other wetland plants such as sedges and grasses.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Spiranthes Casei difficult to grow?
A: No, Spiranthes Casei is relatively easy to grow and care for.
Q: Does Spiranthes Casei require a lot of sunlight?
A: No, Spiranthes Casei prefers partial shade, but can tolerate full sun in cooler climates.
Q: What is the best type of soil for Spiranthes Casei?
A: Spiranthes Casei prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter.
Q: Where is Spiranthes Casei typically found?
A: Spiranthes Casei is native to the southeastern United States and is typically found in wetlands, bogs, and other moist habitats.
Related Plants
- Spiranthes cernua
- Spiranthes odorata
- Spiranthes ovalis
- Spiranthes romanzoffiana
References
- Case’s Ladies’-tresses (Spiranthes casei) – Georgia Wildlife Federation
- Spiranthes casei – Wikipedia
- Spiranthes casei – United States Department of Agriculture
