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Description
Thelymitra Pauciflora, also known as the Slender Sun Orchid, is a species of orchid native to Australia. It is a terrestrial orchid that usually grows in sandy or gravelly soils in heathlands, forests, and woodlands. Its stem can grow up to 25 centimeters tall and has a single leaf that is narrow and grass-like. The flowers are blue or purple and have a lip that is white with a yellow or orange center. The plant blooms from August to December.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Asparagales |
| Family | Orchidaceae |
| Genus | Thelymitra |
Appearance
Thelymitra Pauciflora has a slender stem that can grow up to 25 centimeters tall. It has a single narrow and grass-like leaf that grows from the base of the stem. The flowers are blue or purple and have a lip that is white with a yellow or orange center. The lip is also fringed with hair-like structures. The plant blooms from August to December.
Care Guide
Thelymitra Pauciflora is a terrestrial orchid that requires sandy or gravelly soil that is well-draining. It prefers full sun to partial shade and requires moderate watering. The plant should be watered when the soil is dry to the touch. Fertilization should be done once a month during the growing season using a balanced fertilizer. This orchid is hardy in USDA zones 8 to 10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Thelymitra Pauciflora is susceptible to spider mites, aphids, and mealybugs. These pests can be controlled using insecticidal soap or neem oil. The plant is also susceptible to fungal diseases such as root rot and leaf spot. These diseases can be prevented by ensuring that the soil is well-draining and avoiding overwatering.
Habitat
Thelymitra Pauciflora is native to Australia and can be found in heathlands, forests, and woodlands. It usually grows in sandy or gravelly soils.
Question and Answer
Q: What is the blooming period of Thelymitra Pauciflora?
A: Thelymitra Pauciflora blooms from August to December.
Q: What are the common pests and diseases that affect Thelymitra Pauciflora?
A: Thelymitra Pauciflora is susceptible to spider mites, aphids, mealybugs, root rot, and leaf spot.
Q: What kind of soil does Thelymitra Pauciflora require?
A: Thelymitra Pauciflora requires sandy or gravelly soil that is well-draining.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Thelymitra Pauciflora?
A: Thelymitra Pauciflora is hardy in USDA zones 8 to 10.
Related Plants
- Thelymitra Aemula
- Thelymitra Benthamiana
- Thelymitra Nuda
- Thelymitra Variegata
References
- “Thelymitra Pauciflora.” Australian Native Plants Society (Australia), 2019, anpsa.org.au/t-pau.html.
- “Thelymitra Pauciflora.” PlantNet, New South Wales Government, plantnet.rbgsyd.nsw.gov.au/cgi-bin/NSWfl.pl?page=nswfl&lvl=sp&name=Thelymitra~pauciflora.
- Wrigley, John W., and Murray Fagg. Australian Native Plants: Propagation, Cultivation and Use in Landscaping. 5th ed., New Holland Publishers, 2013.
