James Burghardt
Family
Orchidaceae
Botanical Name
Spathoglottis
Plant Common Name
Ground Orchid, Spathoglottis
General Description
The genus Spathoglottis comprises more than 40 terrestrial (ground-dwelling) orchids from tropical and subtropical Asia and Australasia.
The handsome, pleated, sword-shaped leaves of these tender perennials arise from underground pseudobulbs (bulb-like stems). The pseudobulbs spread and multiply via short rhizomes. Plants are evergreen and "ever-blooming" in tropical climes, but may go dormant where winters are cool and dry.
Spathoglottis produce clusters of yellow, purple, pink, or white flowers atop erect leafless stalks. Each blossom has five broad oval "petals" surrounding a three-lobed lip that widens to a spatula-shaped tip. The flowers of horticultural selections of Spathoglottis open wide into a star shape; "wild" plants typically have cupped flowers that never fully open. Spathoglottis often self-sow prolifically in tropical climes. Some Spathoglottis cultivars result from interspecific crosses; these are typically sterile, producing no seed.
Grow ground orchids in moist, acidic, humus-rich soil in partial shade. Good drainage is essential; these terrestrial orchids will not tolerate damp soil. Use these orchids as a massed tropical groundcover, or singly in containers and mixed borders. They can be grown as a houseplants, but ample light, warmth, and humidity are essential.
Numerous cultivars and hybrids in a variety of colors are available. Many hybrids are sold under the "catch-all" name Spathoglottis plicata.
Spathoglottis plicata is considered an invasive weed in Hawaii and several other tropical locales. Use these plants with caution in areas where they might escape gardens via self-sowing.
Characteristics
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Sun Exposure
Partial Sun, Partial Shade
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Native To
Southern Asia, Southeastern Asia, Polynesia, Australia
Growing Conditions
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Soil Drainage
Well Drained
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Growth Rate
Fast
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Water Requirements
Average Water
Ornamental Features
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Flower Interest
Showy
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Flower Petal Number
Single
