Forest Calanthe
calanthe sylvatica
Also known as: ["Forest Calanthe","Woodland Calanthe"]
Overview
A terrestrial orchid species native to tropical and subtropical regions, known for its elegant flowers and terrestrial growth habit.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","aesthetic foliage","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Asparagales |
| Family: | Orchidaceae |
| Genus: | Calanthe |
| Botanical Name: | Calanthe sylvatica |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: indoor pot in a humid, bright location with indirect light, or shaded outdoor garden
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"10–12"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days to maintain high humidity, especially during dry periods
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Orchid bark mix with perlite, sphagnum moss, and a small amount of charcoal.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed after flowering or when foliage dies back.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; focus on removing dead or damaged parts.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours/day; adjust to dappled light in summer to prevent leaf burn.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Gradually acclimate to brighter light; protect from direct sun; place in filtered light if outdoors.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade with dappled light
Avoid direct afternoon sun; rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains for indoor protection.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reducing to every 2–3 weeks in dormancy
Maintain consistent moisture but avoid waterlogging; water more during active growth; reduce in winter.
Soil
well-draining, organic-rich potting mix with added perlite or bark
pH: Slightly acidic (pH 5.5–6.5).
Ensure excellent drainage; maintain slight moisture; avoid compacted soil.
Temperature
Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); cooler nights (55–60°F) promote blooming; avoid extreme fluctuations.
Keep away from drafts; maintain stable temperatures; use a thermometer to monitor.
Fertilizing
every 2–4 weeks during active growth with balanced liquid fertilizer, none in dormancy
Dilute fertilizer to avoid burn; fertilize after watering; stop in dormancy.
Propagation
Methods
Division of rhizomes; best for mature clumps with multiple growths.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Separate rhizomes with at least 2 growths, pot in fresh medium, water lightly, and maintain humidity.
Best Time: Late spring or early summer after flowering.
Environment
High humidity (70–80%), warm temperatures (65–75°F), and indirect light.
Medium
Fine orchid bark mix with perlite and sphagnum moss.
Hormone
Not typically required for rhizome division.
Timeline
New growth appears in 4–6 weeks; establishment takes 3–6 months.
Tools Needed
Clean knife, sterilized pot, orchid mix, humidity dome.
Quick Tips
Ensure each division has healthy roots; keep consistently moist but not waterlogged.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut flower spikes at the base; trim yellowed leaves just above the node.
Pruning Plan
Remove spent flower spikes and dead foliage to redirect energy to new growth.
Tools
Clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears.
Checklist
Sterilize tools, cut dead parts, avoid over-pruning, clean debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Late spring after flowering ceases.
Pot Size
Choose a pot one size larger with ample drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently, trim dead roots, repot in fresh orchid mix with good drainage, and water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the pot becomes crowded; essential for healthy root growth.
Checklist
Check root health, use fresh mix, ensure drainage, water sparingly post-repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture, water thoroughly, ensure drainage, adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; ensure even saturation without pooling; water in the morning to allow foliage to dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry, typically every 7–10 days during active growth (spring/summer); reduce frequency to every 2–3 weeks in winter dormancy.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite for aeration; incorporate organic matter like sphagnum moss for moisture retention.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf yellowing, bud drop, stunted growth, or browning leaf tips.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes leaf discoloration, and may lead to root rot if soil remains cold and wet.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate pots; avoid overwatering in cold conditions.
Hot Stress
Leaves wilt, curl, or scorch; growth halts; may drop buds.
Solution: Provide shade, increase humidity, water more frequently, and ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check season, dilute fertilizer, water before feeding, avoid contact with roots.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer (20-20-20) diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during active growth; cease in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal irritation if they ingest parts of Calanthe sylvatica, particularly the roots and rhizomes. The plant is not considered highly toxic to felines but can cause mild symptoms.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Calanthe sylvatica roots and rhizomes can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset. The plant is not highly toxic but can cause discomfort if consumed in significant quantities.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicCalanthe sylvatica contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress when ingested. The rhizomes and roots are the primary toxic parts, containing irritant substances that may affect the digestive system.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I water Calanthe sylvatica?
A: Water when the top inch of soil is dry, typically every 7-10 days, ensuring good drainage to prevent root rot.
Q: Does Calanthe sylvatica require special lighting?
A: It thrives in partial shade or filtered light, avoiding direct sunlight which can scorch the leaves.
Q: Can Calanthe sylvatica be grown indoors?
A: Yes, it can be grown indoors in a well-lit area with high humidity and consistent temperatures, mimicking its natural tropical habitat.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Orchidaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade with dappled lig |
| 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
