This Asian orchid is showing attractive flower in the Mountains House.
Comprising over 750 genera and 26,000 species, the orchid family (Orchidaceae) is the largest of the plant families, comprising mainly perennial epiphytic and terrestrial species with a global distribution. The genus Calanthe contains approximately 200 species which occur in Asia, Africa, Australia and Central America. It takes its name from the Greek ‘kalos’ (beautiful) and ‘anthe’ (flower). Originating from China and eastern Asia, C. striata is a terrestrial orchid from low, subtropical zones. A basal pseudodbulb produces broadly elliptic, pleated leaves to 50cm in length, and erect, loose racemes of scented yellow flowers. C. striata is a clump-forming species which spreads by producing new offset bulbs from the pseudobulb. It thrives in well-drained, humus-rich compost, and although it can tolerate temperatures below freezing, it is best grown in our climate in a cool greenhouse.