Overview

Sobralia 'Inverleith' is a plant with a columnar upright habit in the genus Sobralia, part of the Orchidaceae family, with evergreen foliage. Sobralia 'Inverleith' grows best in partial shade, and tolerates loam soils and neutral pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H1a. Suggested uses include conservatory, greenhouse and houseplant.

About

Sobralia 'Inverleith' is an evergreen, columnar upright orchid in the Orchidaceae. It is most commonly grown under glass or as a houseplant where it can be given partial shade. Plant in a neutral loam kept consistently moist and sited in a sheltered, east- or west-facing spot. It flowers from June to September.

About the genus

Sobralia is a genus of orchids native to Mexico, Central and South America. The plants are more commonly terrestrial, but are also found growing epiphytically, in wet forests from sea level to about 8,800 ft. The genus was named for Dr.

Wikipedia contributors, "Sobralia", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Sobralia

In the garden

An evergreen, columnar upright orchid, Sobralia 'Inverleith' is grown principally under glass or indoors where conditions can be kept mild and sheltered. As a member of the Orchidaceae it is suited to conservatory or greenhouse benches and also adapts to a bright houseplant position. Keep it out of strong sun and wind to maintain the foliage. Position the plant in partial shade with an east- or west-facing aspect; these aspects give morning or afternoon light without exposing the plant to harsh midday sun. Use a loam-based growing mix at neutral pH and aim to keep the medium evenly moist rather than letting it dry out between waterings. The recommended exposure is sheltered, so avoid siting where drafts or cold winds reach the pot. Sobralia 'Inverleith' carries the UK hardiness rating H1a, which means it is tender and must be kept frost-free – it is not suitable for outdoor planting through the winter. Where space allows, place it on a protected bench in a conservatory or greenhouse, or by a bright, sheltered window indoors. Expect flowering from June to September.

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Sobralia

Sunlight

Partial shade

Soil type

Loam

Soil pH

Neutral

Soil moisture

Moist

Aspect

East-facing, West-facing

Exposure

Sheltered

UK hardiness

H1a

Plant details

Sobralia 'Inverleith' size, habit and characteristics

Habit

Columnar upright

Foliage

Evergreen

Suggested uses

Conservatory, greenhouse, houseplant

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Sobralia 'Inverleith'

Propagation

Division, keiki removal

Pest resistance

Mealybugs, aphids, scale insects

Disease resistance

Generally disease-free

Frequently asked questions