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Description
Thelymitra Longifolia, commonly known as the Sun Orchid, is a species of terrestrial orchid native to Australia. It is a perennial herb with a single leaf and a stem that can grow up to 35 cm tall. The Sun Orchid is known for its strikingly beautiful flowers, which are yellow or yellow-green in color and can grow up to 6 cm in diameter. The flowers have three sepals and three petals, with the uppermost petal forming a hood over the reproductive organs. The plant blooms between August and October.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Asparagales |
| Family | Orchidaceae |
| Genus | Thelymitra |
Appearance
The Sun Orchid has a single, basal leaf that is up to 20 cm long and 1.5 cm wide. The leaf is strap-shaped and can be slightly twisted. The stem is slender and can grow up to 35 cm tall. The flowers are yellow or yellow-green in color and can grow up to 6 cm in diameter. The flowers have three sepals and three petals, with the uppermost petal forming a hood over the reproductive organs. The plant blooms between August and October.
Care Guide
Water
The Sun Orchid prefers to grow in well-draining soil that is kept moist but not waterlogged. Water the plant regularly during the growing season, but reduce watering during the winter months.
Fertilization
The Sun Orchid does not require frequent fertilization, but you can apply a balanced fertilizer once every two weeks during the growing season.
Soil
The Sun Orchid prefers to grow in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. You can use a mix of peat moss, perlite, and orchid bark to create a suitable growing medium.
Sunlight
The Sun Orchid prefers to grow in bright, indirect light. Avoid placing the plant in direct sunlight, as this can cause the leaves to burn.
Hardiness Zones
The Sun Orchid is hardy in USDA zones 8-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Sun Orchid is susceptible to spider mites, thrips, and mealybugs. It can also be affected by fungal diseases such as root rot and leaf spot. To prevent pests and diseases, make sure to keep the plant clean and avoid overwatering.
Habitat
The Sun Orchid is native to Australia and can be found in a variety of habitats, including heathlands, forests, and grasslands. It prefers to grow in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
Question and Answer
Q: Can the Sun Orchid be grown indoors?
A: Yes, the Sun Orchid can be grown indoors as long as it is placed in a bright, indirect light location.
Q: How often should I water my Sun Orchid?
A: Water the Sun Orchid regularly during the growing season, but reduce watering during the winter months.
Q: What should I do if my Sun Orchid gets spider mites?
A: To treat spider mites, spray the plant with a mixture of water and dish soap. You can also use insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Q: When does the Sun Orchid bloom?
A: The Sun Orchid blooms between August and October.
Related Plants
- Thelymitra Crinita
- Thelymitra Epipactoides
- Thelymitra Flexuosa
- Thelymitra Macrophylla
References
- “Thelymitra Longifolia.” Australian Native Plants Society.
- “Thelymitra Longifolia.” Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria.
- “Sun Orchid (Thelymitra Longifolia).” Gardening Australia.
