In the pine forests, forests, and wet meadows of the United States, this precious and rare large orchid, which has been threatened and endangered.
Characteristics of the Palanthera ciliaris
It is made up of clusters of bright yellow flowers to orange with fringes, which rest on a long stem and is characterized by having a terrestrial habit.
This perennial or epiphytic plant, that is to say, eternal, sometimes it is a climber. The reproductive systems (male and female) merge into a structure called the column.
Flowering occurs between summer and fall, two to four months. Some time later, the flowers are shedding and stripping the stem. From that moment, a new cycle begins that can last from four to eight months, so that the floral rod is once again dressed in orchids.
It was described by the botanist, naturalist and father of ecology, the Swedish Charles Linnaeus, with a generic name that derives from the Greek and refers to "flowers with large, flat anthers." Its conservation depends on the life of the tree that supports it.
Among the main characteristics of this species, highlights the nectariferous spur, which captivates pollinating insects with its soft and sweet aroma. Curiously in this case, the dependency is established with the butterfly pollinator (Pipevine swallowtail), who is responsible for reproduction.
Also the roots (ovoid tubercles), differentiate it from others of its kind.
Threats of the Palanthera ciliaris
In recent years, the presence of this flower in forests and in its natural habitat, has been reduced by several causes, the main one being indiscriminate fires. Likewise, the treatment of soils during harvest, together with land management practices, something that has not favored their permanence in the environment.
For this reason, it is important to maintain a healthy ecosystem, which makes it easier for pollinators to get closer to the species and stop a process of extinction, which in the future could be imminent.
Curiosities of the Palanthera ciliaris
There are orchids that thrive in arid terrain and even varieties with semi-aquatic life have been discovered.
They are world famous for their striking colors and strange beauty. There are more than 25.000 species and specifically in the United States there are about 200 that grow wild in its prairies, mountains, swamps and forests. The yellow / orange color of the Palanthera Ciliaris, blends in with the sun of those American places.
This plant was known since ancient times, even Chinese documents speak of its crops, the same as the Greeks, who admitted that they had medicinal and stimulating properties. For their part, the Aztecs used their vanilla to flavor a cocoa-based drink, now delicious chocolate.
The Palanthera ciliaris to decorate your home
Decorate your house with this spectacular plant, but before investigates its origin, habitat, qualities and care.
It is common for species like these and when you buy them in a florist or nursery, they bring instructions that allow you to identify their genus. Preserve it over time and visually enjoy its charm.
Tips for enjoying Palanthera ciliaris
Place it where the sun does not shine directly and avoid strong drafts that produce an early fall of their flowers.
Protect them from extreme temperatures, (there are exceptions).
In the specific case of the yellow-flowered orchid that grows in humid environments, reserve a suitable place in your home for maintenance.
If you notice that the plant is developing and blooming healthily, do not move it from the original place where you placed it. It is essential to offer it conditions similar to that of its habitat.
Don't over water it.
Use a fungicide to prevent any pathogens such as fungi, bacteria, viruses and insects from attacking the plant. Yes indeed, be careful with the flowers.
The orchid or Orchidaceae of the monocot family, is distinguished by the extravagance of its forms and extraordinary diversity of colors. Not for nothing is it considered one of the ten most beautiful flowers on the planet.
