Overview

Microcoelia gilpinae 'Clare' is a plant with a epiphytic habit in the genus Microcoelia, part of the Orchidaceae family, with none foliage. Microcoelia gilpinae 'Clare' grows best in full shade, and tolerates most soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H1b. Suggested uses include specialist collections.

About

Microcoelia gilpinae 'Clare' is an epiphytic orchid cultivar from the genus Microcoelia, known for its leafless habit. It thrives in full shade and prefers sheltered positions with a north, east, or west-facing aspect. This cultivar requires fertile, well-drained soil that can be chalk, clay, loam, or sand, with a high moisture level and a pH ranging from acid to alkaline. Suitable for specialist collections, it is hardy to UK zone H1b and is best appreciated during the spring and summer seasons.

About the genus

Microcoelia is a genus of orchids native to sub-Saharan Africa as well as to Madagascar and other islands of the Indian Ocean.Microcoelia aphylla (Thouars) Summerh. - from Kenya and Uganda south to KwaZulu-Natal, plus Madagascar, Mauritius and Réunion Microcoelia aurantiaca (Schltr.) Summerh. - Madagascar Microcoelia bispiculata L.Jonss.

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

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Microcoelia

Sunlight

Full shade

Soil type

Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand

Soil pH

Acid, Alkaline, Neutral

Soil moisture

High

Aspect

North-facing, East-facing, West-facing

Exposure

Sheltered

UK hardiness

H1b

Plant details

Microcoelia gilpinae 'Clare' size, habit and characteristics

Habit

Epiphytic

Foliage

None

Suggested uses

Specialist collections

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Microcoelia gilpinae 'Clare'

Propagation

Seed, division

Pest resistance

High

Disease resistance

High

Frequently asked questions