Contents
Description
Stelis Immersa is a species of orchid that is native to the high altitude rainforests of Ecuador and Peru. It is a miniature orchid that has become popular among orchid enthusiasts due to its unique features and ease of growth. The plant produces numerous tiny flowers that are arranged in clusters on a single stem. The flowers are greenish-yellow in color and have a waxy texture. The leaves of the plant are thick and succulent, and they grow in a rosette pattern around the base of the stem. The plant blooms from spring to fall, and each flower lasts for about a week.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Asparagales |
| Family | Orchidaceae |
| Genus | Stelis |
Appearance
Stelis Immersa is a small, epiphytic orchid that grows up to 3 inches tall. The leaves are thick and succulent, and they grow in a rosette pattern around the base of the stem. The plant produces numerous tiny flowers that are arranged in clusters on a single stem. The flowers are greenish-yellow in color and have a waxy texture. The lip of the flower is white with a yellow center, and it has a fringed edge. The plant blooms from spring to fall, and each flower lasts for about a week.
Care Guide
Stelis Immersa is an easy to grow orchid that requires relatively low maintenance. Here are some tips for caring for this plant:
- Water: Water the plant once a week, ensuring that it is not sitting in standing water. The roots should be allowed to dry out slightly between watering.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a month with a balanced orchid fertilizer.
- Soil: Stelis Immersa is an epiphytic orchid and does not require soil. It can be grown in a pot with orchid bark or mounted on a piece of cork or tree fern.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers bright, indirect light. It should be protected from direct sunlight, which can burn the leaves and flowers.
- Hardiness Zones: Stelis Immersa is not frost hardy and should be kept indoors in cooler climates.
Common Pests & Diseases
Stelis Immersa is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to spider mites, mealybugs, and scale insects. Regular inspection and treatment with insecticidal soap or neem oil can help prevent infestations. The plant can also be susceptible to root rot if overwatered.
Habitat
Stelis Immersa is native to the high altitude rainforests of Ecuador and Peru. It grows as an epiphyte on trees and rocks in the cloud forests at elevations of 1,500 to 2,500 meters. The plant is adapted to the cool, moist conditions of its habitat and prefers similar conditions when grown indoors.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Stelis Immersa a fragrant orchid?
A: No, Stelis Immersa is not a fragrant orchid.
Q: Can Stelis Immersa be grown outdoors?
A: Stelis Immersa is not frost hardy and should be kept indoors in cooler climates.
Q: How often should I fertilize Stelis Immersa?
A: Fertilize the plant once a month with a balanced orchid fertilizer.
Q: How long do the flowers of Stelis Immersa last?
A: The flowers of Stelis Immersa last for about a week.
Related Plants
- Stelis albida
- Stelis argentata
- Stelis ciliaris
- Stelis muscifera
References
- Christenson, E. (1999). Stelis of Ecuador: A survey of the genus.
- Pridgeon, A. M., Cribb, P. J., Chase, M. W., & Rasmussen, F. N. (2006). Genera Orchidacearum: Volume 4: Epidendroideae (Part 1). Oxford University Press.
- Stewart, J., & Griffiths, M. (2008). The orchid: a cultural history. University of Chicago Press.
