Stream Orchid, Giant Helleborine
epipactis gigantea
Also known as: ["Giant Helleborine","River Orchid"]
Overview
A terrestrial orchid species native to western North America, known for its large size and yellowish-green flowers with reddish-brown veins.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","rare/collector’s item"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Asparagales |
| Family: | Orchidaceae |
| Genus: | Epipactis |
| Botanical Name: | Epipactis gigantea |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: shaded garden bed or woodland setting
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"0–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"5–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Humus-rich, well-draining orchid mix or peat-based soil with perlite.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically after flowering or when dead leaves appear.
- Pruning Intensity: Light pruning; remove only dead or yellowing leaves.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Partial shade with bright, indirect light for 4–6 hours daily; avoid direct afternoon sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to outdoor light; protect from harsh midday sun; provide dappled light in hot climates.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
challengingmoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full shade
Morning sun is ideal; use sheer curtains for indoor light; rotate plant for even growth.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Maintain consistent moisture without waterlogging; water less in dormant periods; ensure good drainage to prevent root rot.
Soil
moist, rich, well-drained soil with organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 5.5–7.0).
Ensure soil is not compacted; use a mix with good aeration; avoid heavy clay soils.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (50–75°F or 10–24°C); tolerates mild frosts but avoids extreme heat.
Avoid drafts; maintain stable temperatures; protect from extreme fluctuations.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season, none in winter
Dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Division of rhizomes or seed propagation (challenging for home growers).
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Separate rhizomes with at least one growth bud.
- Plant shallowly in moist medium.
- Maintain humidity.
Best Time: Early spring before active growth begins.
Environment
Warm, humid, and shaded environment with indirect light.
Medium
Humus-rich, well-draining medium like orchid mix or peat-based soil.
Hormone
Not typically required for rhizome division; optional for seed germination.
Timeline
Rhizome division: immediate establishment; seeds: 1–2 years to germinate and mature.
Tools Needed
Clean knife, sterile pot, humidity dome, peat moss.
Quick Tips
Use sterile tools to prevent rot; keep soil consistently moist; avoid direct sun during rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip dead foliage at the base; avoid cutting into healthy growth.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning; focus on removing dead or damaged foliage to maintain plant health and aesthetics.
Tools
Clean, sharp scissors or pruners.
Checklist
Inspect for dead leaves; sanitize tools; prune carefully; dispose of debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth starts.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter; ensure it’s not too large.
Method
Gently remove plant; trim dead roots; repot in fresh, well-draining orchid mix; ensure good drainage.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the plant outgrows its container; necessary to refresh soil and prevent overcrowding.
Checklist
Check root health; prepare new pot; use fresh soil; water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water thoroughly at the base, allowing water to reach the root zone; ensure excess drains away; water in the morning to reduce evaporation and fungal risk.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry, typically every 7–10 days in spring/summer, reducing frequency to every 2–3 weeks in fall/winter.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate organic matter like peat moss for moisture retention.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf yellowing, or stunted growth in heat; leaf browning or necrosis in cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf discoloration, and can lead to root damage if frozen.
Solution: Insulate pots with bubble wrap; move to a sheltered location; avoid sudden temperature drops.
Hot Stress
Causes wilting, leaf scorch, and reduced flowering due to excessive transpiration.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during active growth (spring/summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicEpipactis gigantea is slightly toxic to cats if ingested. The plant may cause mild gastrointestinal irritation, resulting in symptoms such as vomiting or diarrhea.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicEpipactis gigantea can cause mild gastrointestinal upset in dogs if ingested. The plant contains compounds that may irritate the digestive tract, leading to discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicEpipactis gigantea, commonly known as Stream Orchid, is generally considered slightly toxic to humans. Ingestion may cause mild gastrointestinal discomfort due to the presence of certain compounds, though severe toxicity is rare.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Epipactis gigantea suitable for beginners?
A: No, it is challenging to grow and requires specific conditions.
Q: Does this orchid attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds.
Q: Is it toxic to pets?
A: There is no reliable information on its toxicity to pets.
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
