Its an orchid you’ll encounter fairly often, and its fairly large so you can see the flower parts easily. The parts of all orchid flowers occur in threes three petals, and three sepals. The sepals are the outside covering of the flower bud which opens, and they protect the petals inside.
Most orchids turn in the development of the bud so that the lip is at the bottom of the flower but some have a lip at the top and are called “non-resupinate”. Orchids are found on every continent on Earth except Antarctica. While most people associate orchids only with tropical places they are found in a wide variety of ecosystems.
But with orchids, the sepals have been modified to essentially become a part of the orchid’s flower. Oftentimes they mimic the look of the petals, but they always function along with the rest of the flower to trick a pollinator into taking the pollinia to another orchid flower.
Are orchids good house plants?
Orchids are popular houseplants and make a beautiful addition to houseplant displays. Moth orchids ( Phalaenopsis) are the most common type of orchid grown in the UK. Flowering over a long period, they’re available in an increasingly wide range of flower colours.
Using a sterile, sharp knife or pair of scissors, remove a stem and allow it to form a callus for several days. Put it into well-draining soil and then water whenever the soil has dried out completely. Be conscious of the fact that cuttings only root in weather that is warm or hot. Want to use seeds?
A well-draining growing mediumAt least six hours of indirect sunlight (bright shade) a day. Moist, but not waterlogged, soil. Once-a-month fertilizer feedings (quarter strength)A humid environment. Pruning, as needed.
What are the basics of growing orchids?
Net pots, which have wire mesh and allow for a breathable environment. These can be hung in advantageous locations for better sunlight. Clear plastic pots, which get better sunlight to the roots. These allow the grower to inspect the root systems without disturbing the orchid. Wooden pots, which are constructed of rot-resistant wood.
What is the function of the lip of an orchid?
The lip is involved with the polliation process, its used to guide the pollinator, whether its a bee, a butterfly, or a hummingbird, to the pollen. This lip is the first character that makes an orchid an orchid all orchids have a lip. To the left is a Phalaenopsis flower. Do you see the same flower parts?