When you hear the name ‘orchid,’ it almost certainly brings to mind the intricate, exotic blooms we all know so well. But jewel orchids takes a different approach. Their glory is in their luxurious foliage – and that’s not the only characteristic that sets these beauty apart from their cousins. Jewel orchids are unique in so many ways, and we’d love to introduce you to one of our favorites – Ludisia discolor.
That Velvety Foliage
Deep green and velvety on top, the foliage of this jewel orchid has contrasting pink veins running the length of each leaf. And as the leaves stand slightly upright –gathered closely on pinkish stems – you’ll love the rosy burgundy hue on the back of each leaf. When the light is just right, the color even shines through and tints the entire leaf.
Winter Blooms
Jewel orchid does bloom periodically, but in this case the blooms are the supporting cast for the beautiful foliage. Some owners even pinch the budding stems off when they appear to encourage bushier growth with more leaves. But if you let them grow, the tall, airy clusters of tiny white flowers create a striking complement to the dark leaves. What the jewel orchid’s blooms lack in showiness though, they make up for in great timing – they appear from late fall into winter when other flowers are hard to come by.
Terrestrial Growth
Many orchids are natural epiphytes meaning in their native habitat, they can be found off the ground, attached to trees or rocks, and gathering moisture and nutrients from the surrounding environment. Jewel orchid, on the other hand, is terrestrial – it grows rooted in soil on tropical forest floors all over southeast Asia. So, as a houseplant, jewel orchid prefers classic potting soil over the coarse bark mix that other orchids thrive in.
An Easy-Going Attitude
Jewel orchid is no more difficult to care for than other foliage plants, and it’ll bloom for you pretty regularly – unlike some of its pickier orchid cousins. At home living on shady tropical forest floors, jewel orchid is happiest away from any kind of direct light. Bright but indirect light is perfect – like within a few feet of an east-facing window. If you keep your jewel orchid near a south or west exposure with direct sunlight, it’s better to diffuse the light with a sheer curtain. As for water, jewel orchid is similar to staghorn fern or stomanthe in its requirements, meaning it doesn’t like to dry out much, but it also doesn’t like soggy soil either. The best bet is to watch the soil and give a drink when the top inch or so is dry.
A Stunner for Your Collection
Houseplant collectors of all kinds love jewel orchids. If you’re a fan of patterned foliage, rich colors, dainty blooms, or just want to step into orchid parenthood at a more forgiving level, then stop in and find a jewel orchid to add to your plant collection. We think they’re pretty special, and we’re always here to chat about these beauties – and answer any question you may have too.
