Overview
Habenaria chlorantha is a plant with a terrestrial habit in the genus Habenaria, part of the Orchidaceae family, with deciduous foliage. Habenaria chlorantha grows best in partial shade, and tolerates loam soils and acid pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H5. Suggested uses include ornamental.
About
Habenaria chlorantha, known as the larger butterfly orchid, is a terrestrial orchid with deciduous foliage. It thrives in partial shade, ideally in a north-facing, sheltered spot with moist, acidic loam soil. This cultivar is hardy in the UK (H5) and is best grown in fertile, well-drained soil. It is valued for its ornamental appeal during spring and summer and can be propagated by seed or division.
About the genus
Habenaria, commonly called rein orchids or bog orchids, is a widely distributed genus of orchids in the tribe Orchideae. About 880 species of Habenaria have been formally described. They are native to every continent except Antarctica, growing in both tropical and subtropical zones.
Wikipedia contributors, "Habenaria", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Habenaria
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Habenaria
- Sunlight
- Partial shade
- Soil type
- Loam
- Soil pH
- Acid
- Soil moisture
- Moist
- Aspect
- North-facing
- Exposure
- Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H5
Plant details
Habenaria chlorantha size, habit and characteristics
- Habit
- Terrestrial
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Suggested uses
- Ornamental
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Habenaria chlorantha
- Propagation
- Seed, division
- Pest resistance
- Susceptible to slugs
- Disease resistance
- Susceptible to fungal diseases
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Habenaria chlorantha?
Habenaria chlorantha prefers partial shade. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Habenaria chlorantha need?
Habenaria chlorantha grows best in loam soil. It prefers acid soil. Aim for soil that stays moist.
Is Habenaria chlorantha hardy in the UK?
Habenaria chlorantha has an RHS hardiness rating of H5, meaning it is hardy in most of the UK, tolerating -15 to -10°C.
How do I propagate Habenaria chlorantha?
Seed, division.