Slender-lipped Pterostylis

acianthus tenuilabris

Also known as: ["Slender-lipped Greenhood"]

Family: Orchidaceae Genus: Acianthus Category: Flowers

Overview

A terrestrial orchid species native to Australia, characterized by its slender labellum and delicate flowers.

Benefits & Perks

["aesthetic foliage","rare/collector’s item","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Liliopsida
Order: Asparagales
Family: Orchidaceae
Genus: Acianthus
Botanical Name: Acianthus tenuilabris

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Flowers
  • Suitable Location: shaded garden bed or container with protection from intense sun
  • Suitable For:
    Collectors & Enthusiasts Indoor Plant Lovers Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"8–25°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"8–10"}
  • Misting: every 2–3 days in dry conditions
  • Drainage: Fast-draining
  • Soil Type: Fertile, well-draining orchid mix or sandy loam with organic matter.
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: moderate
  • Toughness Level: moderate
  • Pruning Frequency: As needed after flowering; light pruning annually to maintain shape.
  • Pruning Intensity: Light
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 4–6 hours daily; adjust to dappled light in intense summer sun.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to brighter light; protect from direct midday sun; place in filtered light outdoors.

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves, root rot, or stunted growth indicate poor soil conditions or overwatering.

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
moderate

moderate

Sunlight

partial shade to full shade

Avoid direct sun; rotate plant for even light; use sheer curtains for protection.

Watering

every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter

Water deeply but infrequently; ensure excellent drainage; avoid waterlogged soil.

Soil

well-draining, humus-rich soil

pH: Slightly acidic (pH 5.5–6.5).

Ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid heavy clay soils; use orchid bark for aeration.

Temperature

Cool to moderate temperatures (10–20°C); prefers cooler nights during dormancy.

Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from drafts; maintain consistent cool nights.

Fertilizing

every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer

Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; use a low-nitrogen formula.

Propagation

Methods

Seed or division of clumps; stem cuttings may be challenging.

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Collect fresh seeds or divide mature clumps.
  2. Sow seeds shallowly or plant divisions.
  3. Keep moist and warm.

Best Time: Late winter to early spring, when new growth begins.

Environment

Warm, humid conditions with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.

Medium

Well-draining seed mix or perlite and peat moss blend.

Hormone

Not typically required for seeds; rooting hormone may aid cuttings.

Timeline

Seeds may take 1–3 months to germinate; cuttings root in 4–6 weeks.

Tools Needed

Pruning shears, seed trays, rooting hormone (optional), misting bottle.

Quick Tips

Use fresh seeds for best germination; keep cuttings humid; avoid overwatering.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Snip spent flower stalks at the base; trim any dead or damaged foliage.

Pruning Plan

Minimal pruning needed; remove spent flower stems to encourage reblooming.

Tools

Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors.

Checklist

Sterilize tools before use; prune after flowering; remove only dead or spent parts.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Early spring, before active growth begins.

Pot Size

One size up; increase pot diameter by 2–3 cm.

Method

Use a well-draining mix; gently tease apart roots; ensure pot has drainage holes.

Suggestions

Repot only when overcrowded or every 2–3 years; prefers being slightly root-bound.

Checklist

Check root boundness; use fresh soil mix; water lightly after repotting.

Advanced Care Tips

Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist

Check soil moisture before watering; water early in the day; ensure drainage holes are clear.

How to Apply Water Properly

Water at the base, targeting the root zone; ensure water penetrates deeply but does not pool; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.

Pro Tip: Use a watering can with a narrow spout to direct water precisely to the roots.
Watering Schedule Tips

Water sparingly during active growth, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings; reduce frequency in winter dormancy.

Soil Improvement

Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate peat moss for acidity.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Leaf yellowing, wilting, or stunted growth; bud drop in extreme conditions.

Cold Stress

Slows growth, may cause root rot if soil remains wet in cold conditions.

Solution: Ensure well-drained soil; protect from frost; move to a warmer location if temperatures drop below 5°C.

Hot Stress

Leaf scorch, wilting, or premature flowering; reduced vigor in excessive heat.

Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Check growth phase before fertilizing; dilute fertilizer correctly; avoid contact with roots.

Fertilizing Method

Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength; apply monthly during active growth; avoid fertilizing in winter.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellowing of leaves in Acianthus tenuilabris may indicate nutrient deficiencies, water stress, or pathogenic infections, leading to reduced photosynthetic efficiency and potential decline in plant vigor.

Wilting in Acianthus tenuilabris is typically a response to water stress, either due to insufficient soil moisture or root damage, which can impair nutrient uptake and lead to plant mortality if prolonged.

Leaf spots on Acianthus tenuilabris are commonly caused by fungal or bacterial pathogens, resulting in reduced photosynthetic area, potential defoliation, and weakened plant health.

Rotting, particularly root or stem rot, in Acianthus tenuilabris is often caused by overwatering or fungal pathogens, leading to tissue decay, impaired water transport, and eventual plant death.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Non-toxic

Acianthus tenuilabris is not known to be toxic to cats. There are no documented cases of adverse effects following ingestion by felines.

⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

No specific safety precautions are required for keeping this plant in environments where cats are present.
Dogs
Non-toxic

Acianthus tenuilabris is not known to be toxic to dogs. There are no documented cases of adverse effects following ingestion by canines.

⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

No specific safety precautions are required for keeping this plant in environments where dogs are present.
Humans
Non-toxic

Acianthus tenuilabris is not known to exhibit toxic properties to humans. There are no documented physiological effects or adverse reactions associated with its consumption.

⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

No specific safety precautions are required for handling or growing this plant around humans.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How do I care for Acianthus tenuilabris?

A: Provide partial shade, well-draining soil, and moderate watering, avoiding waterlogged conditions.

Q: Is Acianthus tenuilabris toxic to pets?

A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.

Q: Does this orchid attract wildlife?

A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds due to its nectar-rich flowers.

Quick Reference
Family: Orchidaceae
Care: moderate
Light: partial shade to full shade
Water: every 7–10 days during activ
Suitable For: ["collectors/enthusiasts","indoor plant lovers","wildlife supporters (attracts bees, butterflies, birds)"]
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