Found in mulch - Orchid Board

flhiker · #1 01-09-2012, 05:00 PM

I was cleaning up around my croutons (which hasn't been done in a loooong time.)

and noticed this inflorescence, and then noticed the huge pseudobulb growing in the mulch. It appears to be dead leafs grow from the side of the bulb. Not even sure it's an orchid. But sure looks like one. I checked my Florida native book and couldn't find it. Doesn't anyone know what it is?

BruceP · #2 01-09-2012, 08:34 PM

That's Eulophia graminea, an asian terrestrial orchid that is naturalizing in Florida. First discovered in Miami in 2007 (growing in mulch), it is spreading like crazy. I found a plant here in my neighborhood in north Broward County. I believe that it's now also been seen in Palm Beach and Collier counties.
Here's a link.

King_of_orchid_growing:) · #3 01-09-2012, 08:35 PM

Second it being Eulophia graminea.

Native to Southeast Asia (Thailand, Vietnam, Laos, Cambodia, Malaysia).

These are so hardy, they can withstand a lot of neglect and still not skip a beat.

They're related to Cymbidiums.

flhiker · #4 01-09-2012, 08:39 PM

I knew I could count on you guys. My book doesn't list it only listed Eulophia alta.

BruceP · #5 01-09-2012, 08:53 PM

I should add that it is considered an exotic invasive and should be removed. OK to dig it up and keep it as a captive if you like so long as you take steps to prevent the spread of the seeds. Eradication efforts are already underway in sensitive natural areas.

DelawareJim · #6 01-10-2012, 07:12 AM

I agree with Bruce. As an invasive species, it should be removed. It think you should box it up and ship it to me here in Pennsylvania where I will carefully keep in under control under lights in my basement.

Cheers.
Jim

Lorraine · #7 01-10-2012, 08:20 AM

I dug up a clump from a friend's garden. It has quite a number of spikes in it. It came with her mulch also. If some of the seeds can find their way to help make my neighborhood more interesting I'm all for it. I suspect though the lawn guys will take care of that before anyone knows what they have. I'm in south Palm Beach County.

Did some reading ... now I'm not so sure if I should keep it or not

the flowers are small but cute.

flhiker · #8 01-10-2012, 02:57 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by DelawareJim

I agree with Bruce. As an invasive species, it should be removed. It think you should box it up and ship it to me here in Pennsylvania where I will carefully keep in under control under lights in my basement.

Cheers.
Jim

Not a big fan of invasive plants, But I would like to see it in flower. When it's done flowering and before it pods up I will cut the spikes and send it to you.

Daethen · #9 01-10-2012, 04:19 PM

If you find any others, I would love to give it a home up here where it cannot spread!!!!

BruceP · #10 01-10-2012, 04:26 PM

Slip a couple of air potatoes in the box as well. In 3 months DJ will need a machete to get into his basement!