Calanthe is found in all tropical areas but is highly concentrated in Asia. Calanthe species are evergreen shade plants. During winter it assumes a yellow-green-white colouring. The adult specimens are medium in size and reach 60 cm high.

 

It has spectacular multiple 1 1/2 to 2 inch flowers on spikes over 12 inches tall. There are two types of Calanthe, the deciduous ones which generally have large, silvery pseudo bulbs, drop their leaves in the fall, and require a dry rest during the winter, and the evergreen Calanthe which have either no pseudo bulbs or very inconspicuous ones, usually keep their leaves for several seasons, and require even moisture year round.

 

Calanthe has white or yellow or rose-colored flowers and broad leaves folded lengthwise. The flowering stem can be up to 1.5 meters tall crowded at the top by around 15 flowers.

 

The plant can be grown in the garden in a very shaded and well drained area that can be kept moist in the drier times. Grow these plants in a well shaded area and handle as little as possible while giving plenty of moisture both to the roots and the atmosphere except in cold weather where some protection from frost is needed, good air movement is also necessary.

 

Orchids in general favor a pretty moist soil; to water correctly it is advisable to water these plants by immersion, therefore soaking the containers in water up to the edge.

 

Did you know?

 

•  Calanthe triplicata flowers from October to February and has the common name of Chrismas Orchid.
• Calanthe is a widespread genus of over 150 species