Ludisia discolor (Jewel Orchid)

Ludisia discolor (Jewel Orchid) is a small-sized, terrestrial, or lithophytic orchid species known more for its beautiful foliage than its flowers. Its creeping rhizome produces bronze to olive-black to deep red velvet-like leaves, up to 3 in. long (7 cm), with attractive red or gold venation. In spring, small white flowers, 1 in. across (2.5 cm), adorned with yellow anthers, are borne on 6-12 in. flower spikes (15-30 cm). They bloom for 2-3 weeks. The beautiful leaves and many several-flowered inflorescences can be a memorable sight. Native to China, Southeast Asia, and Indonesia, Ludisia discolor is a hot to warm growing orchid species found in damp places in shade forests at elevations of 1650-3300 ft. (500-1000 m). It is easy to grow and thrives on standard houseplant care, much like African violets. Ludisia discolor is the only species of the genus.

• Recipient of the prestigious Award of Garden Merit of the Royal Horticultural Society.
• Grows up to 4-18 in. tall and wide (10-45 cm).
• Easily grown in houseplant compost or a mixture of medium to coarse bark with a small amount of sphagnum moss.
• Prefers medium light with no direct sun. Provide strong air circulation year round.
• Needs an average night temperature of 70-72°F (21-22°C) and a daytime temperature of 80°F (27°C) in summer.
• Needs an average night temperature of 48-53°F (9-12°C) and a daytime temperature of 59-64°F (15-18°C) in winter.
• Maintain adequate humidity (85-90%) for most of the year by setting the plant in a tray of damp pebbles.
• Provide even moisture throughout the year. Water your plant thoroughly, then allow it to dry slightly before watering again. Never let your orchid sit in a water-logged pot.
• As for most orchids, feed with a balanced fertilizer, diluted to 50%, every 2 weeks.
• Propagation: plant the fleshy stems that break off in sphagnum moss until roots form – approximately 6 weeks, cuttings can then be potted up into houseplant compost after about 6 months.
• Once the flowers have faded, remove the spent flower spikes.
• Generally disease-free. Keep an eye out for aphids, glasshouse red spider mites, mealybugs, and root rot (excess moisture).
• Native from northern India, through Southeast Asia, north to southwestern China, and south through Malaysia up to Indonesia.