The mysterious ghost orchid is a perennial leafless plant. It has a unique structure and exudes an unusual aroma.
It is characterized by strong gray-green roots that resemble a giant cobweb from which white flowers suddenly peep out. The biological structure of the roots of the plant is similar to foliage, so the flower feels great without it.
You can find an orchid on the crowns of vertically growing trees, such as ash or cypress. The root system absorbs oxygen, nutrients and moisture both from the crown of the tree and from the air.
Description
According to the description of the ghost orchid, its roots can reach a length of up to 50 cm and 5 mm in thickness, which ensures their full functioning for the life support of the plant. An interesting fact is the appearance of small leaves at an early stage of orchid development, which disappear forever with its growth.
The ghost orchid flower has a pleasant subtle aroma, grace and special elegance. Visually, it seems quite large, especially in comparison with the dimensions of the whole plant.
The flower itself has a unique structure. It consists of white petals, two of which are distinguished by their length and shape. They hang down and resemble the frog's legs. For this structural feature, the plant received a second name - the frog orchid.
Until recently, it was believed that the "ghost" is not only very rare, but even extinct. At one time, poachers destroyed the flower. Another reason for its extinction is considered a change in climatic conditions.
In fact, scientists have found a way to cultivate a unique flower. In nature, such a miracle can be found in the tropics, in areas of marshland. The distribution area is:
- Haiti;
- Caribbean Islands
- The Bahamas
- Florida forests;
- Cuba.
Meeting an orchid in nature is not easy. The thing is that it grows in inaccessible places where it is difficult for a person to get.
The plant got its name for its unusual appearance. Its roots merge with flower-bearing arrows, so flowers appear as if from nowhere. Blossoming "in the air", they hang in a chaotic manner, like ghosts.
Growing Features
At home, a ghost orchid can be grown, but an unusual flower requires a special approach. The main task before planting is not to damage the root system when removing the plant from the crown of the tree.
Before planting a natural specimen, it is necessary to prepare for it a habitat that is closest to the native. To plant an orchid, a spacious terrarium is needed, in which the following soil mixture should be placed:
- charcoal;
- moss sphagnum;
- bark;
- drainage.
On the resulting mixture, it is necessary to place the root system of the plant. Further cultivation of the "ghost" depends on proper, competent care.
Care
As for care, the ghost orchid requires compliance with temperature and humidity, and prevention from pests and diseases is also necessary. Optimum conditions for growth include:
- regular airing of the terrarium;
- humidity 80%;
- providing a flower with diffused light;
- temperature during the day - 30-33 degrees, 20-23 - at night.
In early spring and late autumn, the plant begins a dormant period. At this time, the flower needs to create a certain temperature regime: during the day - 25-26 degrees, at night - 12-13.
Breeding
Like other types of orchids, the "ghost" reproduces by seed.
Seeds are microscopic in size. In one box they can be several thousand. They ripen within a year. Unfortunately, only a few have the opportunity to get on the crown of a tree or in the soil. That is why the plant is in the ranks of those that are on the verge of extinction.
Scientists are constantly working on the reproduction of the "ghost", but so far no way has been found to prolong its life at home. The lifespan of a flower in captivity is only 1 year. However, if the home flower is returned to its habitat, it can bloom and grow for another decade.
Flowering features
The "ghost" blooms only when its root system is sufficiently branched. This usually takes several years.
Orchid flowers have a pleasant apple-fruity aroma. The plant is very fond of pollinating insects.
The “ghost” begins to bloom only after several years after its seed hit the crown of the tree. At the beginning of spring or the end of winter, stems of small length grow from the root system, from which peduncles appear, more like a rigid wire. In length, they can reach up to 25 cm.
In total, up to 10 peduncles appear on one plant, on each of which - the only flower of extraordinary beauty.
Under the weight of the flowers, which usually bloom at one time, the peduncles gracefully bend, and the plant looks amazingly spectacular.
The flowering time of the "ghost" falls on the period June-August. Flowering time - 3 weeks. The life span of the plant at home is small, only 1 year. In nature, an orchid can live several decades.
Interesting Facts
Probably the most interesting fact: the ghost orchid has absolutely no leaves. For a long time it was believed that this flower leads a parasitic lifestyle, however, scientists involved in the study of the "ghost" refuted this.
The root system does not grow into the crown of the tree, with the exception of a single root branch, which the plant attaches to the trunk. The rest, as it were, braids it or a branch.
The ghost takes nutrients from the air and rainwater. Unusual flowers bloom only in favorable weather for them. Their representatives can grow on one site for several decades.
Blooming flowers during flowering can change their white color to pale green. At this time, due to their structure, they become like a frog.
Perhaps in the near future the ghost orchid will appear in areas with a temperate climate. In the native forests of Florida, it has settled, and there is an opportunity to save it from extinction.
By the way, today the plant can be seen in Naples in the botanical forest.