About
A terrestrial orchid to 30cm tall with basal rosettes of oval dark-green leaves to 10cm long, 2-6 per plant. Single, nodding flowers in spring, up to 3.5cm tall, are green with a brown lip and appear on green spikes which can reach a maximum length of 30cm.
About the genus
Pterostylis are terrestrial orchids with tubers producing small rosettes of round to linear leaves. Solitary, hood-shaped green and brown flowers are borne on spikes from each rosette
Growing conditions
SunlightPartial shade
Soil typeLoam, Sand
Soil pHNeutral
Soil moistureWell-drained
AspectEast-facing, North-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH2
Plant details
Plant typeConservatory Greenhouse, Houseplants
HabitClump forming, Columnar upright
FoliageEvergreen
Height0.1-0.5 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesPatio and container plants
Native toNew Caledonia, Austr.
Care notes
CultivationGrow in terrestrial orchid compost in full light, with shade from hot sun and night temperatures between 8 and 10°C; water sparingly only once the growth point emerges, increase watering as leaves develop and use orchid fertiliser when in full growth. Reduce watering when leaves start to yellow and dormancy starts, dormancy lasts 2-3 months when temperatures should be kept at 20-25°C with occasional misting only. Repot during the dormant period.
PruningNo pruning required, remove spent flower spikes as necessary
PropagationIncrease by separating and potting on new tubers during dormancy
Pest resistanceAphids and slugs may be a problem
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free