Overview

Calanthe tricarinata is a orchid in the genus Calanthe, part of the Orchid family. Calanthe tricarinata grows best in partial shade, and tolerates well-drained and humus-rich soils. It is native to Japan, Korea, China, Northeastern India, Pakistan, Bhutan, Assam, Nepal, Kashmir, Myanmar and Thailand.

About

Calanthe tricarinata is an orchid in the genus Calanthe native to East and South Asia. It flowers in the UK season from May to July. The plant prefers partial shade and a consistently moist, well-drained, humus-rich soil. Position it in a sheltered, shaded spot and maintain a supply of organic matter to support growth.

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About the genus

Calanthe, commonly known as Christmas orchids, is a genus of about 220 species of orchids in the family Orchidaceae. They are evergreen or deciduous terrestrial plants with thick roots, small oval pseudobulbs, large corrugated leaves and upright, sometimes arching flowering stems. The sepals and petals are narrow and a similar size to each other and the labellum usually has spreading lobes.

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In the garden

Calanthe tricarinata is an orchid found across Japan, Korea, China and parts of South and Southeast Asia including Northeastern India, Pakistan, Bhutan, Assam, Nepal, Kashmir, Myanmar and Thailand. As a member of the genus Calanthe it is adapted to shaded, moisture-retentive sites in its native range and typically flowers in late spring to mid-summer. Give this orchid partial shade and a soil that is both well drained and rich in humus; soils should be kept moist rather than allowed to dry out. Work generous quantities of leaf mould or well-rotted organic matter into the planting area to improve structure and water-holding capacity, and apply a mulch of coarse organic material to moderate soil temperature and preserve moisture. Avoid waterlogging by ensuring free drainage beneath the humus layer. In the UK this species suits a woodland border, the shaded edge of a mixed shrubbery or a damp, sheltered bank where its cultural needs can be met. Container culture in a shady spot is possible where the substrate remains humus-rich and moist. Flowering runs from May to July, so place plants where the seasonal blooms can be readily seen and enjoyed.

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Calanthe

Sunlight

partial shade

Soil type

well-drained, humus-rich

Soil moisture

moist

Plant details

Calanthe tricarinata size, habit and characteristics

Plant type

orchid

Native to

Japan, Korea, China, Northeastern India, Pakistan, Bhutan, Assam, Nepal, Kashmir, Myanmar, Thailand

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Calanthe tricarinata

Cultivation

Prefers humus-rich, well-drained soil in partial shade; keep soil moist but not waterlogged.

Propagation

Division

Frequently asked questions