What makes the Spiranthes sinensis so special? Let us introduce you to this unique plant
Spiranthes sinensis is the smallest orchid in the world, with a small distribution range. Its inflorescence resembles a ribbon, which is how it got its name, and it is hailed as the "stairway to heaven." Its inflorescence coils around the flower stem like a dragon, and its fleshy roots resemble ginseng, so Spiranthes sinensis is also called Panlongshen (coiling dragon ginseng). Spiranthes sinensis is a national second-class protected plant.
Spiranthes sinensis: family and genus
Orchidaceae, genus Spiranthes
Alternative names for Spiranthes sinensis
Panlongshen, Longbaozhu, Shuanghucao, Yixianxiang.
Distribution of Spiranthes sinensis
Spiranthes sinensis is extremely widely distributed, mainly growing on hillside forest floors, under shrubs, or in riverbank marsh meadows. It is found in every province of China and also in other Asian countries.
Morphological characteristics of Spiranthes sinensis
Spiranthes sinensis has several roots, which are fleshy and finger-like, clustered at the base of the stem. The stem is relatively short, with 2-5 leaves near the base. The leaves are broadly linear and stand upright. The flower stem is upright, 10-25 cm long, and the flowers form a raceme, with most of the flowers densely packed along the floral axis. What is very distinctive is that the flowers of Spiranthes sinensis are spirally twisted, generally small flowers in purplish red, pink, or white; the lower parts of the sepals are close together, the middle sepal is narrowly oblong with a slightly pointed tip, and it leans together with the petals to form a hood shape. The flowering period is July-August.
Growth habits of Spiranthes sinensis
Spiranthes sinensis is a type of orchid, generally growing beside sloping hillsides with good water permeability and water retention, secondarily in the shade of mixed wood forests, in places with shade, short sunlight hours, or only scattered dappled light. Orchids are best planted in an environment with air circulation. They like shade and avoid direct sunlight; they like moisture and avoid dryness. The suitable growing temperature is 15°C to 30°C. Growth is poor when the temperature is above 35°C, and severe cold below 5°C will affect their growth vigor, causing the orchids to enter a dormant state.