Overview
Tipularia discolor is a plant with a perennial habit in the genus Tipularia, part of the Orchidaceae family, with deciduous foliage. Tipularia discolor grows best in partial shade, and tolerates loam soils and acid pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H6. Suggested uses include woodland gardens.
About
Tipularia discolor, the crippled cranefly or crane-fly orchid, is a perennial terrestrial woodland orchid, a member of the family Orchidaceae. It is the only species of the genus Tipularia found in North America.
About the genus
Tipularia is a genus of temperate terrestrial orchids. As of December 2025, Plants of the World Online accepts the following species:Tipularia discolor (Pursh) Nutt. Tipularia japonica Matsum.
Wikipedia contributors, "Tipularia", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Tipularia
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Tipularia
- Sunlight
- Partial shade
- Soil type
- Loam
- Soil pH
- Acid
- Soil moisture
- Moist but well-drained
- Aspect
- North-facing
- Exposure
- Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H6
Plant details
Tipularia discolor size, habit and characteristics
- Habit
- Perennial
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Suggested uses
- Woodland gardens
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Tipularia discolor
- Propagation
- Seed, division
- Pest resistance
- Resistant to verticillium wilt
- Disease resistance
- Generally disease-free
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Tipularia discolor?
Tipularia discolor prefers partial shade. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Tipularia discolor need?
Tipularia discolor grows best in loam soil. It prefers acid soil. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.
Is Tipularia discolor hardy in the UK?
Tipularia discolor has an RHS hardiness rating of H6, meaning it is very hardy, tolerating -20 to -15°C across most of the UK.
How do I propagate Tipularia discolor?
Seed, division.