Mark Kane
Family
Orchidaceae
Botanical Name
LUDISIA discolor
Plant Common Name
Jewel Orchid
General Description
An alluring foliage plant, the jewel orchid becomes more ornate when days are short by bearing upright clusters of tiny white blossoms. A native of the tropical regions of southeastern Asia, from China to Indonesia, this terrestrial orchid lacks pseudobulbs but grows from an elongated, creeping rhizome from which emanates stout, fleshy roots.
The pointy, oblong to elliptical leaves are deep green to chocolate-black with underlying red tones and pinkish silver veins. The leaf undersides are deepest maroon. From fall to early spring, when growing conditions are favorable, upright clusters (raceme) of tiny white flowers with yellow caps appear. These are faintly fragrant and insect pollinated.
Grow jewel orchid in frost-free gardens or conservatories with bright, indirect light. They grow best in a well-drained pot with a combination of grit and peat potting mix. To keep the foliage looking perfect, keep the soil evenly moist, but never wet, and offer good air movement and high ambient humidity. Jewel orchid is relatively easy to grow and makes an attractive houseplant.
Ornamental Features
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Flower Interest
Showy
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Fragrant Flowers
Yes
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Fragrant Fruit
No
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Fragrant Foliage
No
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Bark or Stem Fragrant
No
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Flower Petal Number
Single
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Repeat Bloomer
No
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Showy Fruit
No
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Edible Fruit
No
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Showy Foliage
Yes
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Evergreen
Yes
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Showy Bark
No
Special Characteristics
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Usage
Container, Groundcover, Houseplant, Mixed Border, Tropical
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Sharp or Has Thorns
No
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Invasive
No
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Self-Sowing
No
