Chinese spiral orchid
spiranthes sinensis
Also known as: ["Chinese orchid","spiral orchid"]
Overview
A terrestrial orchid species native to East Asia, known for its spiral arrangement of small, fragrant flowers along the stem.
Benefits & Perks
["fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Asparagales |
| Family: | Orchidaceae |
| Genus: | Spiranthes |
| Botanical Name: | Spiranthes sinensis |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: meadow or woodland garden, or shallow pot with good drainage
- 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: Fast-draining.
- Soil Type: Well-draining orchid mix or sandy loam with organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed after flowering; remove yellowing leaves year-round.
- Pruning Intensity: Light.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light; 4–6 hours of filtered sunlight daily; adjust for seasonal intensity.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to outdoor light; protect from direct midday sun; provide shade in intense heat.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full shade
Avoid direct sun; rotate pot for even light; adjust shade seasonally.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in dormancy
Avoid waterlogging; ensure soil dries slightly between waterings; water less in winter.
Soil
well-draining, humus-rich soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure fast drainage; avoid heavy clay; maintain slightly acidic pH.
Temperature
Cool to moderate temperatures (50–75°F or 10–24°C); prefers cooler nights in growing season.
Keep away from drafts; maintain consistent temps; protect from extreme heat/cold.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season with diluted balanced fertilizer
Dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; fertilize only when actively growing; stop in dormancy.
Propagation
Methods
Seed propagation or division of tubers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Collect seeds/tubers.
- Prepare medium.
- Plant seeds shallowly or divide tubers.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Spring, when new growth begins.
Environment
Warm, humid, and shaded; maintain consistent moisture.
Medium
Sphagnum moss or sterile seed-starting mix.
Hormone
Not typically required for seeds; rooting hormone may aid tuber division.
Timeline
Seeds: 1–2 years to germinate and establish; Tubers: roots in 4–6 weeks.
Tools Needed
Seed trays, sterile knife, sphagnum moss, rooting hormone (optional).
Quick Tips
Use sterile tools; maintain high humidity; be patient with seed germination.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip spent flower stalks at base; trim dead foliage carefully.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning; focus on removing spent flowers and dead foliage to encourage reblooming.
Tools
Clean scissors or pruners.
Checklist
Remove dead flowers; trim yellowing leaves; clean tools before use.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring, before active growth.
Pot Size
One size larger pot; ensure bottom drainage holes.
Method
Gently lift tubers; trim dead roots; replant in fresh mix with good drainage.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when overcrowded; beneficial for tuber health.
Checklist
Check root health; use fresh soil; ensure drainage; handle tubers gently.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water when top inch is dry; ensure drainage; reduce in winter.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base, ensuring even moisture without saturating; allow excess to drain; water early morning or late evening.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water sparingly during dormancy (winter); increase frequency in growing season (spring/summer) when soil dries out between waterings.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf yellowing, stunted growth, or bud drop.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause root damage if frozen; inhibits flowering.
Solution: Insulate pots; avoid drafty areas; protect from frost; reduce watering in cold.
Hot Stress
Leaf scorch, dehydration, reduced flowering, or dormancy.
Solution: Provide shade; increase humidity; water more frequently; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength; apply monthly in growing season; avoid winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicSpiranthes sinensis is not known to be toxic to cats. The plant poses no known health risks if ingested or handled by felines.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Dogs
Non-toxicSpiranthes sinensis is not known to be toxic to dogs. The plant poses no known health risks if ingested or handled by canines.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Humans
Non-toxicSpiranthes sinensis is not known to exhibit any toxic properties to humans. The plant is generally considered safe for handling and consumption.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should Spiranthes sinensis be watered?
A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings, especially during dormancy.
Q: Does Spiranthes sinensis require special soil?
A: It thrives in well-draining, humus-rich soil with partial shade.
Q: Can Spiranthes sinensis be grown indoors?
A: Yes, but it requires bright, indirect light and cool temperatures to bloom successfully.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Orchidaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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