Very elegant, Habenaria radiata (White Egret Orchid) is a hardy terrestrial orchid boasting incredibly beautiful flowers resembling a snowy egret in flight. The pristine white flowers, 1.5 in. wide (4 cm), feature two large, highly fringed petals that extend laterally, from which a central elongated and pointing petal extends. Blooming for 4 weeks in late summer, the incomparable blossoms are borne on an upright, unbranched stalk. One stalk can bear up to 8 blossoms. Growing from a small underground tuber, the plant produces strap-like, dark green leaves, that are slow to emerge in spring. White Egret Orchids naturalizes and spreads by bulb offsets, forming a charming clump over time. Native to Japan, Korea, China and Russia, White Egret Orchid occurs naturally in grassy wetlands, upland bogs and seepage slopes. This species is in rapid decline over its entire range, due to over collection and habitat destruction. Habenaria radiata is relatively easy to cultivate.

• Grows up to 12-18 in. tall (30-45 cm).
• Performs best in full sun or part shade in evenly moist, well-drained, slightly acid soil rich in humus. White Egret Flowers need constant moisture, but not wet soil, during their growth phase. Provide a cool, dry winter rest while dormant.
• Fertilize lightly with 10-20% of the recommended dosage of an all-purpose plant food once or twice as the flower shoots emerge. Mulch during the winter.
• A beautiful addition to bog gardens or pond areas, containers.
• No serious pest or disease issues. Keep an eye out for the Habenaria mosaic potyvirus (leaf chlorosis).
• Native to Japan, Korea, China and Russia. Despite being well known worldwide, this species is imperiled in the wild.