Overview

Microtis is a plant with a terrestrial habit in the genus Microtis, part of the Orchidaceae family, with deciduous foliage. Microtis grows best in full sun, and tolerates loam soils and neutral pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H5. Suggested uses include ornamental.

About

Microtis, commonly known as the onion orchid, is a terrestrial orchid from the Orchidaceae family. This deciduous plant thrives in full sun on a south-facing, sheltered aspect with fertile, well-drained loam soil that is neutral in pH and kept moist. Hardy to UK zone H5, it is best cultivated for ornamental use and is of interest during spring and summer. Propagation can be achieved through seed or division.

About the genus

Microtis, commonly known as onion orchids or mignonette orchids is a genus of about 20 species of plants in the orchid family, Orchidaceae. Onion orchids are terrestrial herbs with a single leaf at the base of the plant. They are similar to orchids in the genus Prasophyllum in that they have an onion-like leaf.

Wikipedia contributors, "Microtis (plant)", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Microtis (plant)

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Microtis

Sunlight

Full sun

Soil type

Loam

Soil pH

Neutral

Soil moisture

Moist

Aspect

South-facing

Exposure

Sheltered

UK hardiness

H5

Plant details

Microtis size, habit and characteristics

Habit

Terrestrial

Foliage

Deciduous

Suggested uses

Ornamental

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Microtis

Propagation

Seed, division

Pest resistance

Susceptible to fungal diseases

Disease resistance

Susceptible to fungal diseases

Frequently asked questions