Overview

Polystachya maculata 'Clare' is a plant with a creeping habit in the genus Polystachya, part of the Orchidaceae family, with deciduous foliage. Polystachya maculata 'Clare' grows best in full shade, and tolerates loam soils and neutral pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H3. Suggested uses include terrariums and vivariums.

About

Polystachya maculata 'Clare' is a creeping orchid cultivar belonging to the genus Polystachya in the Orchidaceae family. It is a deciduous plant that thrives in full shade, ideally in a north-facing, sheltered position. This cultivar prefers fertile, well-drained loam soil with a neutral pH and is hardy to UK zone H3. It is particularly suited for cultivation in terrariums and vivariums, with interest in its growth during spring and summer. Propagation can be achieved through division, stem cuttings, or seed.

About the genus

Polystachya, abbreviated Pol in horticultural trade, and commonly known as yellowspike orchid, is a flowering plant genus in the orchid family (Orchidaceae). This rather distinctive genus was described by William Jackson Hooker in 1824 and is the type genus of the subtribe Polystachyinae. It contains about 100 species widespread across many of the tropical areas of the world.

Wikipedia contributors, "Polystachya", CC BY-SA 4.0Polystachya

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Polystachya

Sunlight
Full shade
Soil type
Loam
Soil pH
Neutral
Soil moisture
Well-drained
Aspect
North-facing
Exposure
Sheltered
UK hardiness
H3

Plant details

Polystachya maculata 'Clare' size, habit and characteristics

Habit
Creeping
Foliage
Deciduous
Suggested uses
Terrariums, vivariums

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Polystachya maculata 'Clare'

Propagation
Division, stem cuttings, seed
Pest resistance
Generally pest-free
Disease resistance
Generally disease-free

Frequently asked questions

Where is the best place to plant Polystachya maculata 'Clare'?

Polystachya maculata 'Clare' prefers full shade. It suits sheltered positions.

What soil does Polystachya maculata 'Clare' need?

Polystachya maculata 'Clare' grows best in loam soil. It prefers neutral soil. Aim for soil that stays well-drained.

Is Polystachya maculata 'Clare' hardy in the UK?

Polystachya maculata 'Clare' has an RHS hardiness rating of H3, meaning it is half-hardy, tolerating -5 to 1°C, and may need winter protection in colder areas.

How do I propagate Polystachya maculata 'Clare'?

Division, stem cuttings, seed.