Zygopetalum Zygopetalum James Strauss gx 'Scentsation'
ABOUT
Zygopetalum James Strauss gx 'Scentsation', commonly known as Zygopetalum orchid, is a striking plant that captivates with both its vibrant blooms and pleasant fragrance. Its flowers boast a symphony of colors, typically featuring petals that blend hues of purple, green, and white. The petals often exhibit a rich magenta or burgundy spotting that gives them a distinctively speckled appearance, adding to their exotic charm. The lip of the bloom contrasts with its surroundings, usually colored in a deep purple that can verge on a blue tone, accentuated with a white margin and sometimes including intricate veining or patterns that draw the eye. The flowers grow in clusters on erect, slender spikes that ascend from the plant's base. These spikes give the impression of a delicate dance as they support the prominent, showy blossoms. The foliage of the Zygopetalum orchid is equally decorative. Its leaves are long and strap-like, with a glossy green surface that can sometimes appear slightly pleated or banded. The texture of the leaves is typically leathery, providing a sturdy backdrop for the spectacular display above. This orchid's richly scented flowers further enhance its appeal, emitting a fragrant aroma that can vary from sweet and floral to a more complex, spicy fragrance, depending on individual plants and growing conditions. The fusion of visual beauty and olfactory pleasure makes the Zygopetalum James Strauss gx 'Scentsation' a coveted addition to any orchid collection, offering a sensory feast for both the eyes and nose.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Orchidaceae
Synonyms
Zygopetalum Orchid, Zygo
Common names
Zygopetalum James Strauss gx 'Scentsation'.
ToxicityTo humans
Zygopetalum orchids are generally not considered toxic to humans. There is little to no information suggesting that the Zygopetalum, specifically the Zygopetalum James Strauss gx 'Scentsation', poses any significant toxic threat upon ingestion. However, as with any non-food plant, it is advisable to avoid ingesting parts of this orchid as it can potentially cause mild stomach upset due to the presence of unfamiliar compounds.
To pets
Zygopetalum orchids, including the Zygopetalum James Strauss gx 'Scentsation', are not known to be toxic to pets. They are typically not listed on the toxic plant lists by pet poison helplines or veterinary organizations. However, ingestion of any non-food plant can potentially result in mild gastrointestinal upset in pets such as vomiting or diarrhea due to the presence of foreign substances. It is always best to prevent pets from eating plants that are not intended for consumption.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Mixed
Height
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Spread
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Plant type
Orchid
Hardiness zones
Varies
Native area
South America
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental Value: The Zygopetalum orchid is highly appreciated for its striking and colorful blooms, which add aesthetic appeal to any environment.
- Fragrance: Known for its delightful fragrance, it can naturally perfume the area it occupies without the need for artificial scents.
- Psychological Well-being: The presence of flowering plants like the Zygopetalum orchid can boost mood and create a sense of well-being.
- Long Blooming Period: This orchid has a relatively long blooming period, providing enjoyment for extended periods throughout the year.
- Hobby Interest: Collecting and caring for orchids like Zygopetalum can be a fulfilling hobby that offers a way to engage in nurturing living things and learning about plant care.
- Education and Conservation: Growing Zygopetalum orchids can raise awareness about the importance of plant conservation and biodiversity.
- Social Interaction: Sharing an interest in orchids can provide opportunities for socializing with like-minded individuals and participating in community events or clubs.
- Cultural Significance: Orchids have various symbolic meanings in different cultures, such as beauty, luxury, and love, which can enrich the cultural value of a space.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Perfumery: Zygopetalum orchids are known for their strong fragrance and can be used to extract essential oils for perfumes.
- Education: These orchids can be used in botanical studies given their interesting reproductive mechanisms and distinct morphology.
- Artistic Inspiration: Artists can draw inspiration from the intricate patterns and vivid colors of the Zygopetalum orchids for paintings and fabric designs.
- Home Décor: With their attractive foliage and blooms, the orchids can serve as an elegant living decoration in homes and offices.
- Photography: The unique beauty of Zygopetalum orchids can be a compelling subject for professional and amateur photographers alike.
- Floral Arrangements: They can be incorporated into sophisticated floral displays for events and ceremonies.
- Jewelry Making: The flowers can be used to make ornamental pieces, such as resin-preserved earrings, necklaces, or brooches.
- Horticultural Shows: Zygopetalum orchids are often showcased in orchid exhibitions and competitions for their beauty and rarity.
- Ecosystems: These plants can be integrated into greenhouse ecosystems, adding diversity and aiding in humidity control.
- Landscaping: In suitable climates, Zygopetalum orchids can be used in outdoor garden designs to create a tropical ambiance.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Zygopetalum orchid is not commonly referenced in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Zygopetalum orchid is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Exotic Beauty: Zygopetalum orchids are known for their striking, often multicolored flowers, symbolizing unusual and captivating beauty.
- Sensuality: With a name like 'Scentsation', this orchid variety suggests a strong, pleasant fragrance, which is commonly associated with allure and sensuality.
- Charm and Elegance: Orchids in general are viewed as symbols of charm, grace, and elegance, reflecting their refined aesthetic.
- Complexity and Mystery: The intricate patterns on Zygopetalum blooms represent complexity and the mysterious allure of the exotic.
- Rarity and Preciousness: Orchids are often considered rare and precious, just like the occasions or feelings they might commemorate.
- Wealth and Opulence: Their exotic nature and long-lasting blooms have historically been seen as a status symbol, signifying wealth and opulence.
WaterZygopetalum orchids, such as the 'Scentsation', should be watered thoroughly when the top inch of the potting medium feels dry to the touch, typically every 5 to 10 days depending on environmental conditions. When watering, use room temperature water, and ensure to water the plant early in the day. Pour water evenly until it runs freely from the drainage holes, using approximately one to two gallons for a mature plant, depending on the size of the pot. Over-watering or allowing the plant to sit in water can lead to root rot, so it's important to allow the potting medium to dry slightly between waterings.
LightFor the 'Scentsation' Zygopetalum orchid, the optimal light conditions are bright, indirect light. A spot near a window with an east or west exposure provides enough light without the full intensity of the midday sun, which can burn the leaves. Avoid direct sunlight, especially in the hot afternoon, to prevent leaf burn and overheating of the plant.
TemperatureThe ideal temperature range for Zygopetalum orchids, including the 'Scentsation', is between 60 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit during the day and 55 to 65 degrees Fahrenheit at night. They can tolerate temperatures as low as 50 degrees Fahrenheit and as high as 85 degrees Fahrenheit, but prolonged exposure outside this range can be detrimental to the plant's health.
PruningPruning is essential for the Zygopetalum orchid 'Scentsation' to remove dead or damaged flowers and foliage and encourage healthy growth. Trim off spent flower spikes at the base after blooming, and cut away any yellowing or dead leaves. Pruning is best done immediately after flowering, but it can be performed any time unhealthy tissue is spotted to maintain a tidy appearance and prevent disease.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe best soil mix for Zygopetalum (the common name for Zygopetalum James Strauss gx 'Scentsation') is a well-draining, airy orchid mix, often comprised of fine bark, perlite, and sphagnum moss. The soil pH should be slightly acidic to neutral, ranging from 6.0 to 7.5. It is crucial to provide good aeration to the roots and prevent soil compaction.
RepottingZygopetalum should be repotted every 1 to 2 years or when the potting medium begins to decompose. Repotting is best done after flowering, typically in the spring. Choose a pot that is slightly larger than the current one to accommodate growth.
Humidity & MistingZygopetalum orchids thrive in high humidity levels, typically between 60% to 80%. They benefit from daily misting or the use of a humidity tray if grown in indoor environments with dry air.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Use a well-ventilated area with bright, indirect light and high humidity.
Outdoor
Choose a shaded spot, protect from direct sun and frost, and ensure high humidity.
Hardiness zone
9-11 USDA
Life cycleZygopetalum orchids, such as the Zygopetalum James Strauss gx 'Scentsation', begin their life cycle as seeds, which are nearly microscopic and lack endosperm, requiring a symbiotic relationship with mycorrhizal fungi to germinate and develop into protocorms. The protocorms develop into young orchid plants with leaves and roots. This vegetative stage can last several years as the plant matures, with the development of pseudobulbs which store nutrients and water for the plant. Once mature, the Zygopetalum will enter its reproductive phase, producing fragrant, showy flowers that attract pollinators, enabling fertilization. After pollination, seed pods will form, gradually drying and splitting open to release the numerous tiny seeds, which are then dispersed by wind, completing the reproductive cycle. Between blooms, Zygopetalum orchids enter a rest period where growth slows and plants recover before initiating the next growth cycle.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
The most popular method of propagating Zygopetalum orchids, which includes Zygopetalum James Strauss gx 'Scentsation', is by division. This is often done when the plant has become large and overgrown, typically just after it has finished flowering, which is usually in the spring or fall. To propagate through division, the grower should carefully remove the plant from its pot and gently separate the pseudobulbs, making sure that each division has at least three pseudobulbs with their accompanying roots. These divisions can then be potted into fresh orchid potting mix. The pot size should be just large enough to accommodate the roots and the next year’s growth, often around 6 inches (about 15 centimeters) in diameter. It is crucial to maintain high humidity and provide dappled light until the new divisions establish and resume growth.
