PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Bright indirect to partial direct sunlight; avoid intense midday summer sun to prevent leaf scorch
Watering
Water thoroughly when the top 2 cm of the growing medium is dry; ensure proper drainage to avoid root rot
Temperature
Thrives in cool to temperate conditions; tolerates light frost down to 5°C during dormancy
Characteristics
- Leaf: Basal rosette of 3–5 linear, fleshy green leaves; stem leaves reduced to sheathing bracts
- Flower: Dense spike of 3–10 brownish-purple flowers with a prominent tongue-shaped lower lip
- Stem: Slender, upright green stem with overlapping bracts along its length
Care Guide
Watering
Keep growing medium evenly moist but not waterlogged
Fertilization
Diluted balanced orchid fertilizer every 2 weeks. Cease fertilizing during autumn and winter dormancy
Eggshell powder topdress：Crush thoroughly cleaned, dried eggshells into fine powder; sprinkle 1 teaspoon on the soil surface every 3 months to boost calcium levelsPruning
- Remove spent flower spikes at the base after blooming to redirect energy to root growth
- Trim yellowing or damaged basal leaves at their base to prevent fungal rot
- Thin overcrowded clumps in early spring to improve airflow and reduce competition for nutrients
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA confirmed non-toxic; no harmful effects for cats
Humans: Non-toxic to humans; no known adverse health effects from ingestion or contact
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: N/A
Usage: Ornamental orchid for rock gardens, container displays, and native plant collections
