Purple Ground Orchid
Spathoglottis plicata
A terrestrial orchid featuring pleated, lance-shaped bright green leaves and upright flowering stems bearing clusters of bright purple to magenta blossoms.
- Light
- Bright indirect light to partial sun, around 4 to 6 hours of filtered sunlight per day
- Water
- Water regularly when the top inch of soil feels dry. Reduce watering slightly during cooler months, avoiding complete desiccation.
- Growth
- Perennial terrestrial orchid forming upright pseudobulbs and clumping foliage, reaching mature heights of 1 to 2 feet with a similar spread.
Care instructions
Grow in bright, indirect sunlight or partial sun. Keep the soil consistently moist during the growing season, allowing it to dry slightly between waterings. Use a well-draining, organic-rich potting medium and apply a balanced liquid fertilizer monthly during spring and summer.
Growing details
Sunlight
Bright indirect light to partial sun, around 4 to 6 hours of filtered sunlight per day
Watering
Water regularly when the top inch of soil feels dry. Reduce watering slightly during cooler months, avoiding complete desiccation.
Soil
Rich, loose, loamy potting mix with excellent drainage, maintaining a slightly acidic to neutral pH range of 6.0 to 7.0.
Hardiness zone
USDA zones 10 through 12, sensitive to frost and freezing temperatures
Growth habit
Perennial terrestrial orchid forming upright pseudobulbs and clumping foliage, reaching mature heights of 1 to 2 feet with a similar spread.
Bloom season
Blooms intermittently throughout the year in tropical climates, producing clusters of small, vibrant purple flowers on slender upright stalks.
Propagation
Propagated primarily through division of mature clumps and pseudobulbs during the active growing season.
Common pests & issues
Susceptible to root rot if overwatered or kept in poorly draining soil. Common pests include aphids and mealybugs, managed by wiping leaves or applying horticultural soap.
Similar species
Other terrestrial orchids such as Bletilla striata, which features similar pleated foliage but differs in pseudobulb structure and specific flower coloration.