Overview
Pterostylis erecta is a clump forming, columnar upright conservatory greenhouse in the genus Pterostylis, part of the Orchidaceae family, with evergreen foliage. Pterostylis erecta grows best in partial shade, and tolerates loam and sand soils and neutral pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H2. Suggested uses include patio and container plants and conservatory and greenhouse.
About
Pterostylis erecta is a clump-forming, upright terrestrial orchid from the genus Pterostylis, known for its tuberous growth and small leaf clusters. This evergreen cultivar produces a single spike with hood-like flowers, typical of the genus. It thrives in partial shade with bright indirect light, preferring well-drained neutral loam or sandy soils in sheltered positions. Suitable for patio, container, conservatory, or greenhouse cultivation, it can be propagated by separating and potting on new tubers during dormancy. It offers year-round interest through all seasons in the UK, with a hardiness rating of H2.
About the genus
Pterostylis is a genus of about 300 species of plants in the orchid family, Orchidaceae. Commonly called greenhood orchids, they are terrestrial, deciduous, perennial, tuberous, herbs found in Australia, New Zealand, New Guinea, New Caledonia and one Indonesian island. The flowers are mostly green, sometimes with brown, reddish or white stripes, and are distinguished from other orchids by their unusual flower structures and pollination mechanism.
Wikipedia contributors, "Pterostylis", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Pterostylis
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Pterostylis
- Sunlight
- Partial shade
- Soil type
- Loam, Sand
- Soil pH
- Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Well-drained
- Aspect
- East-facing, North-facing, West-facing
- Exposure
- Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H2
Plant details
Pterostylis erecta size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Conservatory Greenhouse, Houseplants
- Habit
- Clump forming, Columnar upright
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Suggested uses
- Patio and container plants, Conservatory and greenhouse
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Pterostylis erecta
- Propagation
- Increase by separating and potting on new tubers during dormancy
- Pest resistance
- Aphids, Slugs
- Disease resistance
- Generally disease-free
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Pterostylis erecta?
Pterostylis erecta prefers partial shade. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Pterostylis erecta need?
Pterostylis erecta grows best in loam and sand soil. It prefers neutral soil. Aim for soil that stays well-drained.
Is Pterostylis erecta hardy in the UK?
Pterostylis erecta has an RHS hardiness rating of H2, meaning it is tender, tolerating 1–5°C, and needs frost-free protection over winter.
How do I propagate Pterostylis erecta?
Increase by separating and potting on new tubers during dormancy.