About

Pleione limprichtii, the hardy Chinese orchid, is a deciduous orchid to 15 cm with ovoid pseudobulbs each bearing a single, lance-shaped leaf. Solitary or occasionally paired, deep rosy-pink flowers 8 cm across with a paler, ridged, red-blotched lip are produced in spring. A charming and reliable orchid for a cool, frost-free alpine house or shaded, moist border.

About the genus

Pleione are deciduous, pseudobulbous orchids producing mostly solitary, showy flowers to 8 cm across in shades of pink, purple, lilac or white from the base of the current year's pseudobulb in spring, before the single, lance-shaped leaf emerges. Excellent in a cool greenhouse or frost-free alpine house.

Plant details

Suggested usesBorders, containers, naturalising.

Care notes

CultivationPlant at appropriate depth in well-drained soil.
PruningAllow foliage to die back naturally.
PropagationDivide offsets when dormant.
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free.
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-resistant.