Crane-fly Orchid
tipularia discolor
Also known as: ["Crane-fly Orchid","Tipularia discolor"]
Overview
A terrestrial orchid native to eastern North America, known for its unique leaf and flower morphology.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","rare/collector’s item"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Asparagales |
| Family: | Orchidaceae |
| Genus: | Tipularia |
| Botanical Name: | Tipularia discolor |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: woodland garden or shaded, protected area
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"6–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Well-draining to fast-draining.
- Soil Type: Rich, well-draining, acidic soil with organic matter like leaf mold or peat.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically once or twice a year.
- Pruning Intensity: Light pruning.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Partial shade; dappled sunlight or bright indirect light for 4–6 hours daily; avoid direct sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate slowly to brighter light if moving from shade; protect from harsh afternoon sun; ideal for woodland garden or shaded patio.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
challengingmoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full shade
Avoid direct sunlight; provide filtered light; rotate periodically for even growth.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overwatering, especially in winter; use room-temperature water.
Soil
moist, well-draining, humus-rich soil
pH: Acidic, 5.5–6.5.
Use acidic amendments; ensure good drainage; avoid heavy clay soils.
Temperature
Cool to moderate temperatures, 50–70°F (10–21°C); tolerates mild frosts but prefers consistent cool conditions.
Keep away from drafts; maintain cool conditions; protect from extreme heat.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer, none in winter
Dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; fertilize only during active growth; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Division of rhizomes; occasionally by seed (challenging).
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Carefully divide rhizomes.
- Plant 1–2 inches deep.
- Water lightly.
- Maintain humidity.
Best Time: Early spring when new growth begins.
Environment
Cool, humid, shaded environment with consistent moisture.
Medium
Peat-based mix with perlite or sand for good drainage.
Hormone
Not typically required for rhizome division.
Timeline
Rhizomes may establish in 1–2 months; flowering may take an additional year.
Tools Needed
Sharp knife, gloves, small trowel.
Quick Tips
Divide only when necessary; ensure each division has roots; keep soil consistently moist.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip dead leaves at the base; avoid cutting healthy growth.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning needed; remove dead or damaged leaves as they appear.
Tools
Clean scissors or pruners.
Checklist
Check for dead leaves; sanitize tools; prune carefully.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth starts.
Pot Size
One size up, ensuring good drainage holes.
Method
Gently remove plant; trim any dead roots; repot in fresh, well-draining mix; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot only when overcrowded or every 2–3 years; prefers being slightly root-bound.
Checklist
Check root health; use fresh soil; ensure proper drainage; water sparingly post-repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water thoroughly; ensure drainage; discard excess water.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; ensure excess water is removed to prevent root rot; water in the morning to allow foliage to dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water when the top inch of soil is dry, typically every 7–10 days during active growth; reduce frequency to every 2–3 weeks in dormancy (late summer to winter).
Soil Improvement
Add peat moss, leaf mold, or perlite to improve drainage and acidity.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, or stunted growth in excessive heat; leaf drop or dormancy in prolonged cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth and may cause leaf discoloration; can survive light frosts but prolonged cold may damage roots.
Solution: Insulate pots with mulch; move to a sheltered location during hard freezes; avoid overwatering in cold.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; growth may cease in excessive heat.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season; avoid dormant period.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer; avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicTipularia discolor is not known to be toxic to cats. There are no reported adverse effects from ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Dogs
Non-toxicTipularia discolor is not known to be toxic to dogs. There are no reported adverse effects from ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Humans
Non-toxicTipularia discolor is not known to have any toxic effects on humans. It is generally considered safe for handling and consumption.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Tipularia discolor suitable for beginners?
A: No, it is challenging to cultivate and best suited for experienced gardeners or collectors.
Q: Does this plant require special care?
A: Yes, it needs specific soil conditions, partial shade, and consistent moisture to thrive.
Q: Does it bloom every year?
A: The plant typically blooms in late summer, but flowering can be irregular depending on environmental conditions.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Orchidaceae |
| Care: | challenging |
| Light: | partial shade to full shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
