Overview

Chiloglottis formicifera is a plant with a terrestrial habit in the genus Chiloglottis, part of the Orchidaceae family, with deciduous foliage. Chiloglottis formicifera grows best in full sun, and tolerates loam soils and neutral pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H1a. Suggested uses include ornamental.

About

Chiloglottis formicifera, commonly known as the ant orchid, is a terrestrial cultivar of the Chiloglottis genus within the Orchidaceae family. This deciduous plant thrives in full sun on a south-facing, sheltered aspect, preferring fertile, well-drained loam soil with a neutral pH and consistent moisture. It is hardy to UK zone H1a and is best cultivated for ornamental purposes. The ant orchid is of interest during spring and summer and can be propagated by seed or division.

About the genus

Chiloglottis, commonly known as wasp orchids, ant orchids or bird orchids, is a genus of about 25 species of flowering plants in the orchid family, Orchidaceae and is found in eastern Australia and New Zealand. Wasp orchids are terrestrial herbs which grow in colonies of genetically identical plants. They usually have two leaves at the base of the plant and a single resupinate ("upside-down") flower.

Wikipedia contributors, "Chiloglottis", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Chiloglottis

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Chiloglottis

Sunlight

Full sun

Soil type

Loam

Soil pH

Neutral

Soil moisture

Moist

Aspect

South-facing

Exposure

Sheltered

UK hardiness

H1a

Plant details

Chiloglottis formicifera size, habit and characteristics

Habit

Terrestrial

Foliage

Deciduous

Suggested uses

Ornamental

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Chiloglottis formicifera

Propagation

Seed, division

Pest resistance

Susceptible to aphids

Disease resistance

Susceptible to root rot

Frequently asked questions