Calanthe discolor - Japanese Hardy Orchid 12cm pot

Calanthe discolor is one of the hardiest and most widely grown terrestrial orchids for temperate gardens. Native to Japan, it thrives in woodland conditions and is valued for its elegant spring flowers and lush, pleated foliage.

🌿 Appearance

1. Flowers: Variable, Usually maroon, purple, or brownish sepals with a white or pale pink lip, though colour can vary widely.
2. Flower spikes: Upright stems carrying 5–15 flowers
3. Leaves: Large, pleated, bright green leaves that emerge after flowering
4. Height: Around 30–45 cm in bloom
5. Bloom time: April–May

🌱 Growing Conditions

1. Light: Partial shade or woodland shade
2. Soil: Humus-rich, well-drained soil with lots of leaf mould
3. Moisture: Even moisture in spring and summer
4. Hardiness: Quite hardy (often −12 °C to −15 °C with mulch)
5. Position: Ideal for woodland gardens, shaded borders, or under deciduous trees

Alpsdake, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons