Ludisia discolor is part of the Orchidaceae family and is native to Southern China, Indochina, Malaysia and Indonesia. This terrestrial grower is commonly referred to as a 'Jewel Orchid' due to the beautiful foliage. Leaves are ovate, dark green with copper venation, and leaves have a velvety texture. Ludisia discolor flowers during autumn and winter, they produce small white blooms which have a distinct pleasant smell.
Specific epithet is Latin, meaning ‘of two colours’, this is in reference to the leaves.
Light: Position in indirect light where it won’t necessarily see the sun. Between 400-800 foot-candles.
Water: This plant prefers evenly moist potting mix, when kept in high humidity it won’t need watering too frequently.
Potting mix: A mix of coco coir, pine bark and horticultural charcoal would also work (50:40:10). Ludisia have a rhizomatic growth habit, it is best to pot them in shallow pots.
Fertilising: Feed monthly during the growing season or when you observe active growth.
Temperature: 15-30˚C.
Humidity: Ludisia discolor prefer higher humidity, ideally 70% with good air circulation. To increase humidity, grow under a cloche but lift at least once a day to allow air to circulate. This plant would do well in a terrarium too.
Ludisia discolor is non-toxic.