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Description
Spiranthes Lacera Var. Gracilis, commonly known as the graceful ladies’ tresses, is a perennial plant species belonging to the orchid family. It is native to North America and can be found in wet meadows, prairies, and open woods. The plant produces a cluster of small white flowers that are arranged in a spiral pattern along a slender, wiry stem. The flowers are highly fragrant and attract pollinators such as bees, butterflies, and moths. The plant blooms in late summer and early fall and can grow up to 40cm in height.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Asparagales |
| Family | Orchidaceae |
| Genus | Spiranthes |
Appearance
The Spiranthes Lacera Var. Gracilis plant has a slender stem that is covered in small, grass-like leaves that are green in color. The flowers are small and white, with six petals that are arranged in a spiral pattern. The flowers have a highly fragrant scent and are attractive to pollinators. The plant can grow up to 40cm in height and blooms in late summer and early fall.
Care Guide
Water: The Spiranthes Lacera Var. Gracilis plant prefers moist soil and should be watered regularly. Make sure the soil is not waterlogged, as this can cause root rot.
Fertilization: Fertilize the plant in the spring and summer with a balanced fertilizer. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can damage the plant.
Soil: The Spiranthes Lacera Var. Gracilis plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. Avoid planting in heavy clay soil.
Sunlight: The plant prefers partial shade and should not be exposed to direct sunlight for long periods of time.
Hardiness Zones: The Spiranthes Lacera Var. Gracilis plant is hardy in USDA zones 5-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Pests: The Spiranthes Lacera Var. Gracilis plant is relatively pest-free, but can be susceptible to aphids and spider mites. Treat infestations with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Diseases: The plant can be susceptible to root rot if overwatered. Avoid planting in heavy clay soil and make sure the soil is well-draining. The plant can also be susceptible to fungal diseases such as powdery mildew. Treat with a fungicide if necessary.
Habitat
The Spiranthes Lacera Var. Gracilis plant is native to North America and can be found in wet meadows, prairies, and open woods. It prefers moist soil and partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Can the Spiranthes Lacera Var. Gracilis plant be grown indoors?
A: The plant prefers to grow outdoors in moist soil and partial shade. It is not recommended to grow it indoors.
Q: How often should I water the Spiranthes Lacera Var. Gracilis plant?
A: The plant prefers moist soil and should be watered regularly. Make sure the soil is not waterlogged, as this can cause root rot.
Q: What is the best time of year to plant the Spiranthes Lacera Var. Gracilis?
A: The best time to plant the Spiranthes Lacera Var. Gracilis is in the spring or fall.
Q: How tall can the Spiranthes Lacera Var. Gracilis plant grow?
A: The plant can grow up to 40cm in height.
Related Plants
- Spiranthes Cernua
- Spiranthes Odorata
- Spiranthes Romanzoffiana
References
- Flora of North America. (n.d.). Spiranthes lacera var. gracilis. Retrieved from http://www.efloras.org/florataxon.aspx?flora_id=1&taxon_id=242101746
- Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Spiranthes lacera var. gracilis. Retrieved from https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c788
- USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service. (n.d.). Spiranthes lacera var. gracilis. Retrieved from https://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=SPLAG
