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Description
Zeuxine Oblonga, also known as the Oblong Zeuxine, is a unique orchid plant that belongs to the Orchidaceae family. It is one of the most common orchids in Southeast Asia and is known for its small size, delicate flowers and interesting growth habit. This plant is a terrestrial orchid, meaning that it grows on the ground rather than in trees like most other orchids. It is a herbaceous perennial, which means it dies back to the ground each year and re-sprouts from the same root system in the following growing season.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Asparagales |
| Family | Orchidaceae |
| Genus | Zeuxine |
| Species | Zeuxine Oblonga |
Appearance
Zeuxine Oblonga is a small orchid that typically grows to a height of 15-30 cm. The leaves are oblong-shaped, hence the name, and are arranged in a rosette at the base of the plant. The flowers are small, typically measuring 1-2 cm in diameter, and are usually white or pink in color. Each flower has a unique lip that is shaped like a scoop, making it easy for insects to land and collect nectar. The flowers are borne on a slender spike that rises above the leaves and can produce up to 20 flowers at a time.
Care Guide
Water: Zeuxine Oblonga prefers to be kept moist but not waterlogged. Water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.
Fertilization: Feed the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Soil: Zeuxine Oblonga prefers a well-draining soil mix that is rich in organic matter.
Sunlight: This plant prefers bright, indirect sunlight. Avoid direct sunlight as it can burn the leaves.
Hardiness Zones: Zeuxine Oblonga is hardy in USDA zones 10-12.
Common Pests & Diseases
Zeuxine Oblonga is susceptible to common orchid pests, such as mealybugs, scale insects, and spider mites. It is also prone to root rot if overwatered or if it sits in water for too long.
Habitat
Zeuxine Oblonga is native to Southeast Asia, where it grows in a variety of habitats, including open meadows, forests, and grasslands. It prefers moist, well-draining soils and can tolerate a range of temperatures and humidity levels.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water Zeuxine Oblonga?
A: Water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.
Q: Can Zeuxine Oblonga be grown indoors?
A: Yes, Zeuxine Oblonga can be grown indoors as long as it is provided with bright, indirect sunlight and a well-draining soil mix.
Q: How often should I fertilize Zeuxine Oblonga?
A: Feed the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: Is Zeuxine Oblonga toxic to pets?
A: No, Zeuxine Oblonga is not toxic to pets.
Related Plants
- Zeuxine Flavescens
- Zeuxine Strateumatica
- Zeuxine Rheedii
- Zeuxine Sulawesiensis
References
- “Zeuxine Oblonga” – Orchids Wiki
- “Zeuxine Oblonga” – The Plant List
- “Zeuxine Oblonga” – World Checklist of Selected Plant Families
