Overview
Spiranthes aestivalis is a herbaceous perennial houseplants in the genus Spiranthes, part of the Orchidaceae family, with deciduous foliage. Spiranthes aestivalis grows best in full sun, and tolerates loam soils and neutral pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H4. Suggested uses include ornamental.
About
Spiranthes aestivalis, commonly known as summer lady's tresses, is a herbaceous perennial orchid belonging to the genus Spiranthes. This genus is known for its compact terrestrial orchids with tuberous roots and rosettes of basal leaves, which can be either papery or fleshy. The small white flowers are arranged in spiral racemes along upright stems. Spiranthes aestivalis thrives in full sun on south-facing, sheltered sites with moist, neutral loam soil. It is hardy to UK zone H4 and is cultivated using orchid bark and bright indirect light. It is valued as an ornamental plant with interest throughout spring, summer, autumn, and winter.
About the genus
Spiranthes is a genus of orchids in the subfamily Orchidoideae. They are known commonly as ladies tresses, ladies'-tresses, or lady's tresses. The genus is distributed in the Americas, Eurasia, and Australia.
Wikipedia contributors, "Spiranthes", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Spiranthes
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Spiranthes
- Sunlight
- Full sun
- Soil type
- Loam
- Soil pH
- Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Moist
- Aspect
- South-facing
- Exposure
- Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H4
Plant details
Spiranthes aestivalis size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Houseplants, Conservatory Greenhouse
- Habit
- Herbaceous perennial
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Suggested uses
- Ornamental
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Spiranthes aestivalis
- Propagation
- Seed, division
- Pest resistance
- High
- Disease resistance
- High
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Spiranthes aestivalis?
Spiranthes aestivalis prefers full sun. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Spiranthes aestivalis need?
Spiranthes aestivalis grows best in loam soil. It prefers neutral soil. Aim for soil that stays moist.
Is Spiranthes aestivalis hardy in the UK?
Spiranthes aestivalis has an RHS hardiness rating of H4, meaning it is hardy through an average UK winter, tolerating -10 to -5°C.
How do I propagate Spiranthes aestivalis?
Seed, division.
