PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Bright indirect to partial sun; tolerates dappled woodland shade; avoid harsh midday summer sun
Watering
Water thoroughly when top 2 cm of soil is dry; avoid waterlogging terrestrial tubers
Temperature
Thrives in cool to temperate conditions; tolerates light frost down to 5°C during dormancy
Characteristics
- Leaf: Basal rosette of 3–5 oblong, pale green leaves; stem leaves are smaller, bract-like
- Flower: Dense spike of 3–10 brownish-purple flowers with a distinctive heart-shaped lower lip
- Stem: Slender, green to purplish upright stem with sheathing bracts
Care Guide
Watering
Keep soil evenly moist during active growth
Fertilization
Diluted orchid fertilizer every 2 weeks. Use balanced, low-strength liquid fertilizer to avoid burning delicate roots
Eggshell powder topdressing：Grind clean, dried eggshells to fine powder; sprinkle lightly on soil surface every 3 months to boost soil calcium levels without root burnPruning
- Remove spent flower spikes after blooming to redirect energy to underground tuber growth
- Trim yellowing basal leaves in late autumn to maintain plant appearance
- Thin overcrowded clumps every 2–3 years to improve airflow and reduce competition
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA: Non-toxic to cats
Humans: No known toxicity to humans
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: N/A
Usage: Ornamental woodland garden plant; container-grown indoor orchid
