About

A bristly annual from the Mediterranean with broadly toothed, rough-textured leaves and clusters of small, star-shaped, white to pale pink flowers in summer, followed by clusters of prickly, burr-like fruits. A botanical curiosity for a sunny, well-drained border or as a forage crop for specialist gardeners.

About the genus

A genus of the orchid family from Central and South America. This genus of epiphytic orchids is characteristic for its complex flowers. Flowers grow downwards and are strongly fragrant, but fairy short-lived. Ribbed, ovoid pseudobulbs form a tight clump, with each carrying one large, stemmed leaf

Plant details

Suggested usesIndoor display, conservatories.

Care notes

CultivationGrow in orchid compost. Bright indirect light.
PruningRemove spent spikes. Repot when crowded.
PropagationDivide when repotting.
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free.
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-resistant.