Ground Orchid
spathoglottis plicata
Also known as: ["Philippine Ground Orchid","Purple Orchid"]
Overview
A terrestrial orchid species native to Southeast Asia, known for its vibrant purple flowers and ability to thrive in garden settings.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Asparagales |
| Family: | Orchidaceae |
| Genus: | Spathoglottis |
| Botanical Name: | Spathoglottis plicata |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: indoor pot with bright, indirect light or shaded garden bed
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"10–12"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days in dry climates, less often in humid environments
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogged roots.
- Soil Type: Well-draining orchid mix with components like bark, perlite, and peat moss.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically after flowering or when dead foliage is present.
- Pruning Intensity: Light pruning to remove only dead or spent parts of the plant.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; can tolerate morning sun but avoid harsh afternoon sun, especially in summer.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate the plant gradually to direct sunlight if moving from indoors. Protect from intense midday sun to prevent leaf scorch. Indoors, place near an east or west-facing window with filtered light.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to filtered light
Rotate the plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; adjust light exposure seasonally.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, avoid letting the plant sit in water, and ensure the soil dries slightly between waterings.
Soil
well-draining, organic-rich potting mix
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 5.5–6.5).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid compacted soil; refresh soil mix every 2–3 years.
Temperature
Prefers 60–85°F (15–29°C); thrives in warm, humid conditions. Avoid temperatures below 50°F (10°C) or sudden temperature fluctuations.
Avoid placing near drafty windows or air vents; maintain stable temperatures; protect from frost.
Fertilizing
every 2 weeks during active growth, monthly in winter
Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; avoid over-fertilizing.
Propagation
Methods
Division of rhizomes or by seed. Division is the most common and reliable method for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Divide the rhizome into sections with at least 2–3 pseudobulbs each.
- Plant each section in a separate pot with fresh orchid mix.
- Water lightly and provide indirect light.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light. Maintain consistent moisture in the medium.
Medium
A mix of peat moss, perlite, and orchid bark for good drainage and aeration.
Hormone
Not necessary for division, but rooting hormone can be used for seed propagation to encourage faster root development.
Timeline
Division: immediate establishment if done correctly; seed propagation: germination in 4–8 weeks, establishment in 6–12 months.
Tools Needed
Sharp, sterile knife or shears, pots, orchid mix, rooting hormone (optional).
Quick Tips
Ensure each division has healthy roots; keep newly propagated plants out of direct sun; maintain high humidity until roots establish.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut flower spikes at the base once they turn brown or dry. Trim dead leaves at the base with clean cuts.
Pruning Plan
Remove spent flower spikes and dead or damaged foliage to encourage new growth and maintain plant health.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors.
Checklist
Remove dead flowers, trim damaged leaves, clean tools before use, dispose of clippings properly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, just before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter; ensure the new pot has adequate drainage holes.
Method
Gently remove the plant, trim any dead roots, place in a slightly larger pot with fresh orchid mix, and water lightly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound. Fresh potting mix rejuvenates nutrients and improves drainage.
Checklist
Choose the right pot size, prepare fresh orchid mix, trim dead roots, water lightly after repotting, place in indirect light.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture, water thoroughly, ensure drainage, avoid wetting foliage.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, ensuring even moisture distribution. Water early in the day to allow foliage to dry before nightfall. Ensure excess water drains away to prevent root rot.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water when the top inch of soil feels dry; increase frequency during active growth (spring/summer) and reduce in winter. Outdoor plants may need daily watering in hot climates.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate organic matter like peat moss for moisture retention.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing or browning leaves, stunted growth, bud drop, or wilting in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and can cause root damage or leaf discoloration. Prolonged cold may lead to plant death.
Solution: Move the plant indoors or to a sheltered location during cold spells. Provide a heat source if necessary and maintain humidity levels.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause leaf scorch, wilting, and reduced flowering. High temperatures combined with low humidity stress the plant.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat, increase humidity with misting or a humidifier, and ensure consistent watering.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer, apply during growing season, flush soil periodically, avoid contact with roots.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during the growing season (spring/summer). Reduce or stop fertilizing in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicSpathoglottis plicata is not known to be toxic to cats. It does not pose any significant health risks upon ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
Not applicable
Dogs
Non-toxicSpathoglottis plicata is not known to be toxic to dogs. It poses no significant health risks upon ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
Not applicable
Humans
Non-toxicSpathoglottis plicata is not known to exhibit toxic properties to humans. It is generally considered safe for handling and consumption.
⚡ Toxic If:
Not applicable
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I water Spathoglottis plicata?
A: Water when the top inch of soil is dry, typically every 5-7 days, ensuring good drainage to prevent root rot.
Q: Does this orchid require a specific light condition?
A: It thrives in partial shade or filtered sunlight, avoiding direct afternoon sun.
Q: Can Spathoglottis plicata be grown indoors?
A: While it prefers outdoor conditions, it can be grown indoors with bright, indirect light and adequate humidity.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Orchidaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to filtered ligh |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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